We’re a team of community-minded volunteers, parents, early childhood champions, and entrepreneurs who are working to create critical childcare for toddlers and primary students in a neighborhood where families live and work in Traverse City.

Staff

Samantha Gauthier

Samantha Gauthier

(she/her)

Head of School

B.S. Early Childhood Education

Whole School Leadership Candidate

Amanda Talsma

(she/her)

Lead Toddler Guide

AMI 0-3 Candidate

Anticipated graduation 2025 

Board of Directors

Lacie Thornton, M.S.

(she/her)

Chair

Joy Martin Omar

(she/her)

Secretary

Brian Thelen

(he/him)

Treasurer

AMI trained ages 12-18 

Bethany Sparling

(she/her)

Board Member

Upper Elementary Training - Seton Montessori

Clare Frye

(she/her)

Board Member

Montessori Consultant

Lisa Thauvette

M ED Montessori

AMI trained ages 6-12

Kenny Schultz

(she/her)

Lead Primary Guide

AMI 3-6 Candidate

Anticipated graduation 2025