“Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.”
Proverbs 22:6

our staff makes our school come alive.

 

Diann Miller

head of school

Introducing Diann, a vibrant soul brimming with love for Jesus, a fondness for coffee, and a weakness for Diet Coke and sarcasm. She dreams of days perfumed with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee, but often finds herself surrounded by various “other” scents while caring for children!

A bookworm at heart, Diann can often be found lost in the pages of a captivating murder/mystery novel. Her love for reading is matched only by her knack for organization, as she thrives in creating order amidst chaos.

But Diann is more than just her hobbies – she's a beacon of light in the lives of those around her. With her quick wit and sarcasm, she brings laughter to every room she enters. Yet, beneath her humor lies a heart of gold, overflowing with kindness and compassion.

Always ready to lend a helping hand, Diann embodies the true spirit of care and generosity. She believes in extending grace and kindness to all.

Anticipate encountering a twinkle in her eyes, mirroring her zest for life, a smile exuding genuine kindness, and a subtle undertone of mischief in her voice, hinting at her sarcastic charm.

Get ready to be inspired by Diann's contagious positivity and unwavering faith.

Brittany Dickson

lower elementary

My name is Brittany, and I am the Lower Elementary Guide at our institution. Although I studied Psychology in college, my journey led me to the fulfilling path of teaching. Recently, I completed my Montessori Training through the North American Montessori Center. It has been such a blessing to spend my second year with the Lower Elementary students, and I cannot envision teaching any other age group.

Beyond the classroom, I have a deep love for the color pink, the sport of hockey, and my faith in Jesus. I also lead a busy life outside of school, coaching cheerleading, working at multiple Motocross tracks, and cherishing moments with my fiancé Aaron and our dog Maverick.

Building meaningful connections with my students, parents, and co-workers brings me immense joy. I am passionate about teaching at CCM and wholeheartedly committed to nurturing these relationships. 

Maria Carlson

upper elementary

Maria Carlson is the Elementary Guide. 

Maria earned a BA in English from Kalamazoo College, where she participated in a study abroad in Munster, Germany. 

She took graduate coursework at Hamline University (St. Paul, MN) for Teaching English as a Second Language and Indiana University South Bend for Special Education. She has taught adult education English as a Second Language classes as well as community education courses. Maria has taught special education for the Elkhart and South Bend community schools and worked for Penn Harris Madison schools.

Maria came to Montessori when she enrolled her child in a Montessori school, later deciding to teach. She is interested in how we learn most effectively through our lifetime, metacognition and growth mindset, specifically how these are applied to math education, as well as exceptional and differentiated education. 

She has received an elementary Montessori certification from the Center for Guided Montessori Studies. 

Brookelyn

Tidd

primary 1

Howdy! My name is Brookelyn Tidd, and I am a primary lead teacher here at CCM! I am 23 years old and have an associate's degree in general studies from Southwestern Michigan College as well as my Montessori early childhood education diploma from NAMC. I am a lover of all things green, plants, Hello Kitty, and creepy crawlies! Outside of school, I enjoy all forms of arts and crafts, doing my nails, and skateboarding. 

I have worked at CCM since April 2021, and I have absolutely adored my job here. This school is a very special place filled to the brim with love, acceptance, and genuine care for each person who enters. I grew up the "weird" kid who blossomed into the "weird" adult, so I strive to show my students that there is beauty in being authentically yourself by being authentically myself! My goals as a teacher absolutely include guiding students along their educational path and being a resource for them as they learn about and experience the world around them, but above all else, I want my students to enter my class each day knowing that they are loved beyond measure and also knowing how to love others well. My passion is deeply rooted in education and kindness, and I am so grateful to work in a place that facilitates both!

Hannah Creekmore

primary 2

Hello! My name is Hannah Creekmore, and I am 21 years old. I have been working at Cornerstone for about almost four years. I have worked with kids in various places for as long as I can remember, and kids are definitely my passion. I am a lead toddler teacher. I also teach Cooking to primary and elementary in the afternoons.

I have had a chance to experience every classroom, but Primary has always been my favorite age group to work with! They’re always so loving and give us lots of laughs. I am wanting to get a degree in children’s counseling. I recently received my certification as a Montessori teacher! I love my job and love seeing little minds shape into big personalities! Primary age impress me with how much they can do that we don’t think they are capable of and I love helping them discover that confidence and ability.

Brittney Herron

primary 3

director of curriculum

Hi! My name is Brittney Herron, and I am a wife, mother, daughter, sister, teacher, friend, pop culture junkie, and Notre Dame football fanatic. I have been blessed with two beautiful daughters- Rylee, 15, and Piper, 6- and a ridiculously naughty puppy. Outside of CCM, I enjoy spending time with my family, trying new recipes, playing board games, trivia nights, attending sporting events, and filling up my online shopping carts. 

This is my twelfth school year as a Lead Teacher, and my second as the Director of Curriculum. I took on the additional role as a way to share my love of the Montessori method not only with my students, but also with all of my colleagues. I have training in infant through kindergarten and while I have enjoyed my time spent with each of these ages, the 3-6 age group (aka Primary) is by far my favorite. I find the relationship to be mutually beneficial and rewarding. While I am teaching them about letter sounds, continents, and the parts of a pumpkin- they are teaching me about forgiveness, unconditional love, and the importance of slowing down and opening my eyes to all the beauties and wonders of the world God gave us. It is through the children of Cornerstone that I have learned what it truly means to “become like a little child” (Matthew 18:3).

Kierston Irvin

toddler 1

Hello! I'm Kierston Irvin, a toddler lead here at CCM. I am 26 and enjoy cooking, baking, and being active. I also have a bachelor's degree in Communication with a concentration in public relations.

I came to CCM last year after having been a parent here for 3 years. I started as a toddler assistant and quickly realized I love teaching this age. I love that they are constantly learning new things and enjoy watching them gain independence and confidence.

Outside of the school, I have four children (ages 5, 4, 3, and 1) that keep me busy! They all attend the school and I love being in the same building with them.

Liberty Miller

toddler 2

Hello! I'm Libby, one of the lead toddler teachers here at CCM. I've been with the school for nearly four years and have experience working with infants through toddlers. Outside of work, I enjoy playing the piano and other instruments, traveling, and diving into a good book.

One of the things I cherish most about my job is witnessing the unique personalities of each child and seeing them grow into their own individuals. My ultimate goal is to contribute to making the world a better and safer place by helping others. Someday, I hope to fulfill my passion for travel and explore different parts of the world!

Aliyah Johnson

toddler 3

Hi! My name is Aliyah and I‘m one of the lead toddler teachers. I have been working at CCM for almost 8 years. I am interested in cooking and traveling. Prior to being a lead toddler teacher, I worked with Tots! My favorite part about this job is creating bonds with all the kiddos and watching them grow in to their own little person and seeing their faces brighten up when they achieve something.

Miss Aliyah just had a baby girl in October! Xalea is one adorable addition to CCM!

Journey Miller

infants

Journey Doege (pronounced Day-Ghee) has dedicated three years to cultivating a nurturing environment where every child can thrive. Transitioning from assisting in the primary class to leading the infant classroom, Journey brings a wealth of experience and passion to our team. Before joining CCM, she refined her skills as a baking assistant at The Electric Brew.

Journey finds immense joy in observing the growth and development of the infants under her care, delighting in their emerging personalities. Her proudest moments occur when her little ones confidently transition to the toddler classroom, showcasing the nurturing guidance provided by her and her team.

Journey & her husband Alex are expecting their first baby in July 2024.

our assistants.

Holly DeRoos

before care. infants.

Jessamie Reames

infants

Alexis Mann

infants

Hollie Legac

toddler 1

Hannah Miller

toddler 2

Gracie Brink

toddler 3

Rosa Ramirez

primary 1

Brenda Bishop

primary float

Kendall Gibbs

after care. summer

Thalia Aguilar

primary 2

Deneaja Jackson

toddler float. intern.

Rylee Herron

after care. summer

Bayleigh Tweedy

primary intern. after care.

BJ Byler

primary 3

Bailey Elliot

after care

Lenny Aguilar

primary. after care.

Elizabeth Osorio

primary. after care. summer

Rebecca Briesacker

after care. janitor.