About

Jessica GabrielDirector

My name is Jessica Gabriel and I am the AMS credentialed director and guide at Nature Song Montessori. I was born to teach! Growing up in a small town, I remember exploring the outdoors until the sun went down. This foundation of learning to appreciate nature very early in my childhood inspired my path to understanding how children learn. Throughout my life, I continued to watch the direction of children and their interests and I came to understand how the environment impacts a child’s development. I believe that life long learning develops first through meaningful experiences connected to personal relationships within the environment. These relationships are built on respect, trust, and love.

After spending 15 years in the classroom, I felt that it was time to open my own home-based Montessori program. I believe that once you walk into a home based learning environment you will walk out with the warmth of student centered learning. One of my favorite things about teaching Montessori is that it continues to guide not only the child, but the teacher as well. Teaching is a commitment from the heart with constant self-reflection. Following this philosophy helps me grow and be more effective in serving the needs of the developing child. This school and educating this formative age group is my passion, and I look forward to sharing that with you and your family.

Collin Gabriel (Teacher Collin)Natural Systems Instructor

Teacher Collin is our natural systems instructor, modeling his lessons in the garden around the themes and lessons we teach inside. He calls it “teaching kids to SEE”. With a background in permaculture, Collin focuses on the relationship between students and their environment, teaching them to recognize all the amazing things that can be observed when we slow down and really take the time to look. This year he’ll be helping our students get our fledgling garden off the ground, and harvest some of that food for snacks in the late spring. Look forward to seeing some of the fruits and veggies your student grows in your cubbies when it is ready, and be sure to ask them questions to test their knowledge about where their food comes from.

Hailey CaudleAssistant 2

“I have worked with children of all ages and many different needs for the past 10 years; mostly private nannying and one Montessori preschool for a short period of time. Watching kids grow and learn physically and academically brings me lots of joy! Teaching kids and watching them teach each other and themselves is definitely my passion.
I am a mom of an amazing, very high energy 8 year old boy, Gaije.
I loooove animals, and exploring the outdoors – when the weather is nice! My son and I have 1 puppy, 1 cat, and 1 fish.
I am excited to start out the new year with your kiddos at Nature Song Montessori! ”
~Hailey

Stephanie McFarlandAssistant 1

Hello Nature Song Montessori families! My name is Stephanie McFarland, and I am excited to begin a new school year with this beautiful community. I bring over 15 years of experience as an early childhood educator, with a deep passion for supporting young children’s growth through language, music, Reggio-inspired art, and socio-emotional development.This year, I am transitioning into a supporting role at Nature Song, focusing on enrichment activities that nurture creativity, self-expression, and connection. Alongside my work with the children, I will also be returning to school to eventually pursue a nursing degree with the goal of entering pediatrics—a path inspired by my dedication to children’s well-being and development.

I feel so grateful to continue being part of the Nature Song community, appreciative of the support during this big change, and I look forward to sharing music, art, movement, and meaningful experiences with your children throughout the year.