Dr. Cindy Acker,
Consultant, Head of School
Cindy is Hamilton Montessori School’s Consultant/Head of School. She holds a BA in Human Development, two Master’s degrees in Cultural Studies and Spirituality and Education, and a doctorate in Educational Leadership from UC Berkeley. She is a former president of one of California’s preschool management associations, and an international keynote speaker on education, race, and leadership. Cindy was Montessori trained by Ursula Thrush, who was trained by Mario Montessori, and she is a professor for Montessori school leadership programs. She has founded seven schools, including The Child Unique, The Montessori Elementary School of Alameda (MESA), and Hamilton Montessori School, which she co-founded for Unity In Marin. Cindy has also been involved in public policy, representing Montessori schools in California. She is a published author and a national keynote speaker. Apart from her passion for education, Cindy is a singer and choir director in Novato and a mother of three adult children. She also speaks Dutch and Spanish.
Catherine Graham,
Montessori Preschool Teacher
Catherine was a founding teacher for Hamilton Montessori School. She has taught at the early childhood, elementary, and middle levels for almost 30 years in New York and California in both public and private schools. Catherine holds two Master’s degrees in education and administration and completed her training for Early Childhood Montessori Certification in June 2023 with the Center for Guided Montessori Studies. Catherine is fully embracing the Montessori philosophy and joyfully applies the principles to all curriculum areas. Her teaching is effused with her love of literature, mindfulness, music, nature, and the environment. She believes that seeing children as compassionate peacemakers encourages them to be mindful of how kindness ripples out into the world. Catherine lives in Novato with her husband and two teenagers. She loves to take time to read, write, and be creative. She is passionate about daily meditation, journaling, and her spiritual life. She also enjoys exploring the beautiful Bay Area and beyond on weekend adventures with her family and beautiful new puppy, Shay.
Baylee Baysinger,
Toddler Teacher
Baylee attended school in Novato and then majored in Child Development at Chico State University. Baylee has seven years of experience teaching toddlers and believes that she has a genuine passion for helping children of all abilities reach their full learning potential. Baylee opened one of our toddler classrooms in January 2025 and is interning as a Montessori toddler teacher.
Lisbet Martinez,
Assistant Preschool and
Science Teacher
Lisbet began at HMS in 2020 as a preschool Assistant Teacher. She has returned to HMS, after leaving to complete her science degree. She graduated with her degree in neuroscience and has been hired as an Assistant Preschool Teacher/Science Teacher. With her science degree, Lisbet is instrumental in designing our exciting nature/science program at HMS. Lisbet is Spanish speaking, which is a wonderful continuation of our Spanish program.
Samantha Garrido,
Assistant Toddler Teacher
Samantha Garrido holds studies in Early Childhood Education, which have enabled her to apply her knowledge in the classroom while supporting children’s learning and overall development. She has over five years of experience working with preschool-age children and is passionate about contributing each day to their academic, social, and emotional growth. She is a caring, cheerful, active, and patient person, which are qualities that help create a safe and nurturing environment for young children.
In her free time, Samantha enjoys going on outdoor walks with her family and their dog, watching movies, and playing volleyball, all of which bring her joy and balance. We are delighted and grateful that Samantha found her way to us here at HMS!
Rachelle Mejia
Teacher and Campus Support
Rachelle was born in El Salvador and is a college student currently working on her Early Childhood Education degree. She has been working with children for over ten years and took childhood courses in high school, as well as 2 years of communication and graphic design courses. Rachelle’s favorite activities are singing, playing piano, and composing music. She has spent her whole life around music, even singing in her church alongside children. Samantha is and kind person, and we are very honored for her to be a part of our HMS team.
