Faculty

• Title: Assistant: Lower Elementary Classroom
• Lower Elementary Staff: Lower Elementary Staff

Amy Pauley serves as an assistant teacher in the Lower Elementary classroom, marking her third non-consecutive school year with CMS and in Lower El. She initially joined in January 2021 but relocated to Fort Bliss with her husband, Will, over the summer due to his duty station change. After returning to West Virginia and CMS in early 2022, Amy took some time off during her pregnancy. Now, she is delighted to be back in the classroom, with her 7-month-old daughter in tow.

With a profound affection for the children of CMS, Amy is dedicated to supporting them through their formative years. Whether it be in the classroom or on the playground, she is dedicated to shaping them into the best individuals they can be.Her favorite subjects to assist students with are reading and spelling. Amy holds an associate's degree in Criminal Justice and is passionate about being a positive influence in children’s lives. Amy is originally from Teays Valley, WV. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, exploring new culinary experiences, traveling, and baking.

• Title: Lead Guide: “Cardinals” Primary Classroom
• Primary Staff: Primary Staff

Staci Lawson assumes the role of lead guide in the Cardinals Primary classroom. She became an integral part of the CMS community in 2021, driven by the pursuit of a Montessori educational setting for her child. Following a two-year tenure as an assistant in the Robins Primary classroom, Staci has progressed to the position of a classroom lead. Presently, she is actively working towards obtaining her AMS Montessori 3-6 Early Childhood certification at the Virginia Center for Montessori Studies in Richmond, VA. Staci holds an Associate degree in Accounting and is a certified Montessori Teacher Assistant. 

Staci’s passion lies in witnessing the growth and achievements of the children under her care, utilizing the educational tools she provides in her classroom. Uncovering her dedication to Montessori principles as a CMS parent, she takes great delight in observing her own child thrive within this nurturing environment. Staci is happily married to her husband, James, and together, they share the joy of parenting their son. The Lawson family also includes 2 pigs, 2 cats, and a bearded dragon. During her free time, Staci indulges in her love for various crafting pursuits.

• Title: Assistant: “Robins” Primary Classroom
• Primary Staff: Primary Staff

Nikki Holmes serves as an assistant teacher in the Robins Primary classroom, having become a part of the CMS community in 2023. With a total of five years of experience in early childhood education, Nikki holds a bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education from Liberty University. Currently, she is actively pursuing her Master's degree in School Psychology at Capella University. 

Nikki is a firm believer in providing each child with an education tailored to their individuality, fostering a love for learning that endures a lifetime. Originally from Wayne County, WV, she now proudly calls Poca, WV her home, where she resides with her husband and two beautiful daughters, aged 17 and 7.

• Title: Assistant: “Cardinals” Primary Classroom
• Primary Staff: Primary Staff

Ania McDougal serves as an assistant teacher in the Cardinals Primary classroom. She joined CMS in 2023, and takes pleasure in actively delving into the Montessori philosophy. Ania is currently working towards a bachelor's degree in Environmental Science at Southern New Hampshire University, pursuing a passion and love for plants and animals.

Originally from Ripley, WV, Ania now resides in South Charleston with her fiancé, Coy, and her cat, Butters. During her free time, she enjoys art, exploring through travel, and experiencing new restaurants and coffee shops.

• Title: Lead Guide: Toddler Classroom
• Toddler Staff: Toddler Staff

Natasha Colon serves as the lead guide in the Toddler classroom, bringing a diverse background and a wealth of experiences to CMS. She became a part of the community in 2022, initially joining as an assistant in the Primary classrooms before transitioning to lead the Toddler room.

Born in Italy and raised in Geneva, Switzerland from the age of three, Natasha studied foreign languages and literature in London, United Kingdom, obtaining a Master's degree in Psychology. Before her career in education, she worked as a flight attendant for 8 years, allowing her to explore various corners of the world. Natasha holds a degree in education and has extensive experience working in early childhood classrooms in Europe.

Driven by her passion for Montessori education, Natasha is currently working towards her AMS 0-3 Infant and Toddler certification at the Virginia Center for Montessori Studies in Richmond, VA. Fluent in four languages—French, Italian, Spanish, and English—Natasha brings a multicultural perspective to her role in nurturing and guiding toddlers through their early developmental stages.

• Title: Assistant: Toddler Classroom
• Toddler Staff: Toddler Staff

Anna Bakker-Japhet serves as the assistant teacher in the toddler classroom, bringing her skills and warmth to the CMS community. She and her family became part of the CMS community in 2022, when they relocated to Charleston, WV, and were seeking a school for their child.

Originally from Olympia, WA, Anna pursued her college education at The Evergreen State College, where she earned a Liberal Arts Degree with a focus on Business and Finance. Before taking on the role of a teacher's assistant in the Chicks classroom, Anna enjoyed a successful career as a professional baker.

In her leisure time, Anna finds joy in family moments, immersing herself in books, and cultivating a garden—a reflection of her love for both learning and nurturing.