MEET OUR TEACHERS
Ashley Smith
I am trained Montessori teacher, mother of 3 and outdoor educator. Having worked with children for over 18 years in both classroom and wilderness settings, I set out in 2017 to open a nature and play-based program for young children. After attending Prescott College and Ohio University, I received a Bachelor of Science in Outdoor Recreation. I completed my Montessori Early Childhood training at the American Montessori Society Education Center in Ohio, and extended my teachings beyond the classroom walls developing lessons integrated with vegetable gardens at the school as part of my practicum experience. I have taught at the toddler, early childhood and elementary levels. As an experienced lead teacher in a preschool classroom I understand children thrive in an environment where they are free to be creative.
Sammy Haight
I am a recent graduate of the early childhood development and education program at Montana State University. I moved to Bozeman in 2015 from Juneau, Alaska and love living in this amazing mountain town. I'm passionate about helping children develop their unique identities and voices while finding ways to laugh about the little things everyday. I'm thrilled to be living in my new tiny house in Bozeman and working with young children outdoors.
Helena Mancey
I joined Mountain Sprouts last fall and am excited to be co-leading the summer program and teaching team again this coming school year. I graduated in 2018 from Colorado State University with a degree in Human Development, Family Studies and Spanish. I spent my college years teaching preschool at the Sunshine House Early Learning Academy. I love the natural joy and curiosity of young children and am excited to be back in a preschool classroom after spending a couple years doing social work in Bozeman. In my free time I love to ski, bike, farm flowers and spend time with my family and friends.
