Ms. Jean
Co-Teacher
Thank you for the privilege of befriending your children at Little Sprouts Montessori. I am Jean Kassen from Shawnee and have retired from teaching some seven years ago with 40 years of experience in traditional and Montessori programs, hoping for opportunities to continue Montessori possibilities like this one with Ms. Natalie. I have spent 27 years in Montessori itself and another 13 in modified Montessori classrooms including kindergarten levels. My travels have taken me from KC, Kansas, to Saipan, CMI (in the Pacific), Topeka, Missouri, Florida, and Minnesota, where I have taught in and out of Montessori systems. I have been a teacher at Little Sprouts since 2014.
Ms. Bella
Co-Teacher
I’ve been working with children for over seven years, this has truly become one of the greatest joys of my life. I love creating a warm, peaceful environment where children can explore, play, and grow at their own pace. The Montessori pedagogy has deepened my appreciation for child-led learning, and the confidence and self-worth it grows within the individual.
I’m passionate about nature, understanding people deeply through psychology and connection, play, music, and learning new things!
I believe every child is wonderfully unique, and my goal is to help them feel seen, valued, and deeply loved just as they are. Whether we’re playing outside, making music, or learning through curiosity and creativity, I aim to nurture the whole child- mind, body, and spirit. Thank you for entrusting me with your child’s precious light, I hope to help nurture and love each child through all things big and small!
Ms. Sharon
Assistant Teacher
My name is Sharon Brewer. While at the University of Kansas Health system and University of Physicians Inc. I was employed as a patient service representative in the Orthopedic office. When communicating with patients, I always tried to be sensitive and responsive to people’s needs and being fluent in the Spanish language helped on a daily basis. After many years with the hospital, and having raised two children of my own and having helped raise my four grandchildren, (my youngest grandson being 10 months old) I retired in 2020.
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When I learned about Little Sprouts Montessori, I was captivated by the teaching and how they strive to bring out the individuality of every child. Being retired does not slow me down and being connected to Little Sprouts Montessori provides me with a new purpose.
Connecting with my own granddaughters is important to me. So, when they began tap dance classes, I also signed up for tap classes at Roeland Park Community Center. It showed them that I wanted to connect with them through the shared experience of dance. I have a sincere desire to learn and grow with the children; to demonstrate rapport through kindness and respect.
On snow days you will find me crocheting with my Cockapoo dog, Prince Charming, at my feet. When I’m out walking Prince, it allows me to focus and meditate on the beauty and wonder that is found in nature.