Staff - Walnut Farm Montessori School

About Us

School Programs
Extended Care
Staff
Careers
History
Board of Trustees
Family Association
Accreditation

School Programs
Extended Care
Staff
Careers
History
Board of Trustees
Family Association
Accreditation

Our Team

Each student’s experience at Walnut Farm is supported by a dedicated team that is committed to hands-on learning and helping children develop themselves. Our staff brings together expertise in education, operations, and children’s development to support meaningful experiences for students and families. Together, we care for the community while nurturing curiosity, responsibility, and connection.

Click on photos to read bios.

Emely Aguirre

Bio coming soon.

Roselyn Aguirre

Bio coming soon.

Elyana Anderson

Bio coming soon.

Michelle Bashore

Bio coming soon.

Jill Bauer

Jill grew up in Wisconsin and loves how NWA reminders her of home. She has an MBA from the University of Wisconsin – Madison and worked in marketing research for 25 years in the corporate setting. She fell in love with the Montessori style when her niece and nephew were in school. She has been teaching children 6 to 12 years old since 2014 when she received her Master of Education at Loyola University in Baltimore. Her first Montessori job was in a trilingual school in Casablanca, Morocco. She has also lived in Tampa, Florida and Paris, France. She and her husband, Dave live on five acres west of Centerton. Jill loves to travel and would love to hear any suggestions you have. Jill has over 14 years of experience working with children.

Briana Cooper

Briana is a product of a Montessori education and is so thrilled to continue her Montessori education, this time as an adult in the classroom! She graduated with a Bachelor of Music Education with a concentration in vocal music and a piano minor from Baylor University. Briana taught in Texas as a middle school head choir director in Waco, TX; high school assistant choir director in Waco, TX; and an elementary general music educator in Houston, TX. She can’t wait to continue her career here in Arkansas in a Montessori environment! Briana has over 12 years of experience working with children.

Azusa Crawford

Azusa has been a member of the Walnut Farm community since 2007, when her daughter Hannah joined Primary, and she has filled a number of roles — substitute, assistant, and teacher — prior to stepping into her position as the Education Administrator in 2021. Azusa was born and raised in Sapporo, Japan, where she attended a Montessori kindergarten (her favorite school experience), played piano, trained in Kendo, practiced calligraphy, and dreamt of working with children as an adult. Though she originally planned to stay in the U.S. for one year to learn English, she fell in love with American culture and diversity in 2001; she has since lived in 4 states (AZ, NJ, SC, and UT) before settling in Arkansas. After her time working as an assistant, Azusa earned the American Montessori Society’s Early Childhood credential at the Montessori Education Center of the Rockies in Boulder, CO. She currently enjoys reading, listening to music, cooking, and Sashiko (Japanese embroidery). Azusa continues to love fulfilling her dreams by employing the Montessori method to guide children both directly and through her support of Walnut Farm’s teaching staff. Azusa has over 13 years of experience working with children.

Jennifer Crosby

Jennifer was born and raised in Arkansas. She and her husband spent several years living in Tennessee, where they enjoyed road trips and traveling overseas. After welcoming their three daughters, they patiently waited for the right opportunity to return to Northwest Arkansas. Now settled in NWA, they love being close to family and spend their time exploring two-lane roads, discovering playgrounds, baking bread, watching movies, and antiquing.

Jennifer holds a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Harding University and a Master’s degree in Reading Education from the University of Missouri. She taught at Nashville’s first public Montessori school, where she also earned her Early Childhood Montessori certification. Jennifer feels grateful to be part of a school community that is intentional, caring, and deeply committed to children and families. With over 25 years of experience working with children, she is passionate about nurturing each child’s growth through thoughtful, developmentally appropriate guidance. Jennifer joined Walnut Farm in 2022.

Shreya Das

Bio coming soon.

Jade Easter

Jade is a Memphis native with a strong background in engineering and education. She earned her undergraduate degree in industrial engineering with a minor in data analytics and is currently pursuing a Master’s in engineering management while completing her Orientation to Montessori studies. Jade has several years of experience leading and facilitating STEM activities for children across Arkansas, combining her technical expertise with her passion for hands-on, inquiry-based learning. Jade joined Walnut Farm in 2024.

Alli Fosse

Bio coming soon.

Michelle Garcia-Martinez

Michelle Garcia-Martinez has lived in NWA for a little over twenty years, having moved here from Colorado. Along with a passion for teaching and child advocacy, as a first generation Mexican American, Michelle has also developed a passion for activism and involvement in the local Latino community. She is excited to bring her dedication and experience to Walnut Farm Montessori. Before becoming the new Montessori Spanish teacher and a member of the support staff, she was a Program Coordinator for two years. She enjoys hiking, biking, community events and spending time with family. She says she took on the most important role of her life in 2020 when she became a mother. Michelle has hit the ground running and is looking forward to her first year here at Walnut Farm! She has over 11 years of experience working with children and teachers.

Kimberly Hodoway

Bio coming soon.

Trynyty Holmes

Trynyty graduated from Bentonville High School in May 2025. During high school, she completed internships at ABC Learning Academy Daycare and in a third-grade classroom at Mary Mae Jones Elementary. Originally from Wyoming, she moved to Bentonville from Colorado in 2020. Her dream is to one day live in Farmington, Maine, and work as an early elementary teacher. Trynyty has dreamed of educating young minds since she was seven years old and finds her work deeply rewarding. In her free time, Trynyty enjoys shopping, cooking, traveling, and spending time with family and friends. Trynyty joined Walnut Farm Montessori School in 2025.

Paige Kemp

Paige was born and raised in NWA and calls it home for her family now. She graduated with her bachelor’s in Educational Studies from the University of Arkansas in 2015 and immediately pursued her Montessori training in Boulder, CO at the Montessori Education Center Of The Rockies. Paige began her Montessori teaching career at Walnut Farm in 2015 teaching in the Primary environment. In 2016 she took another opportunity to grow in her career at a Montessori school in the mountains of Vail, CO. After 5 amazing years in Colorado, Paige, her husband, Kolby, and 2 daughters are happy to be back.

Whitney Kimbro

Whitney began her journey at Walnut Farm Montessori as an aftercare guide, where she quickly discovered her passion for the Montessori philosophy and its focus on nurturing the whole child. She has joyfully guided toddlers and helped to open Walnut Farm’s first Toddler environment. Whitney earned her Montessori Infant and Toddler credential from the Montessori Education Center of the Rockies in 2011. She finds deep fulfillment in helping young children build independence, confidence, and curiosity through meaningful, hands-on learning experiences. Each day brings new opportunities for growth and discovery, which she treasures. A Northwest Arkansas native and Rogers High School graduate, Whitney is a devoted Arkansas Razorback fan. In her free time, she enjoys relaxing by her pool, biking, reading, and spending time with family, friends, her husband Matt, and their beloved bloodhound, Watson Clyde. Whitney began working at Walnut Farm in 2006.

Kerrey Klatt-Klingerman

As a fine art graduate from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, Kerrey has taught drawing lessons, ceramics, painting, and all things art in a variety of educational settings. Kerrey is originally from Michigan, where her parents (Big shout out to Kim and Rick Klatt!!!), two sisters, five nieces & nephews, two great-nieces & nephews, and a bunch of other amazing humans reside! Kerrey enjoys teaching art to children and seeing them feel accomplished and proud of themselves! Montessori = great education! Kerrey has over 17 years of experience working with children. Kerrey joined Walnut Farm Montessori in 2022.

Dan Klug

Originally from a small town near Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, Dan has built a life rooted in service, integrity, and hands-on problem-solving. A U.S. Navy veteran, he served six years as a Hospital Corpsman—spending three years in Guam working in labor and delivery, and three years at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, providing medical support to the Marine Corps. After his military service, Dan transitioned into law enforcement in the Dallas Metroplex while attending the University of Texas. During his time as a police officer, he specialized in mental health crisis response and served as both Chaplain and Treasurer for the Police Association.

In 2024, Dan and his family relocated to Northwest Arkansas, where he became a small business owner focusing on home repair and remodeling. His practical skills, leadership experience, and heart for service naturally led him to Walnut Farm Montessori School, where he enjoys combining his love for working with his hands and connecting with people. Married since 2009, Dan and his Wife are proud parents of two children and have a little dog named Annie. Outside of work, Dan enjoys reading and spending time outdoors running, hiking, and camping. Dan joined Walnut Farm in the summer of 2025.

Coleen Lewis

Coleen moved to Arkansas in 2008 from her home state of Texas, planning to stay only a few years but quickly fell in love with the area. Her Montessori journey began in Texas when she enrolled her 4-year-old son and soon became an assistant teacher. She and her husband, Lance, have two children, Cameron and Caroline. Before joining Walnut Farm in 2024 as the Primary Outdoor Classroom Assistant, Coleen worked in insurance, retail management, medical offices, and private schools. She enjoys music, concerts, cooking, entertaining, and traveling. A member of the Sino-American Aviation Heritage Foundation, she visited China in 2023, invited by the president for her involvement with the Flying Tigers. Coleen brings warmth, life experience, and joy to her work with children.

Sara Lopez

Sara Lopez is a trained Montessori guide in the Infant and Toddler community and holds her AMS credential for ages 0–3. She has guided Walnut Farm’s youngest learners with patience, joy, and dedication. Sara’s Montessori journey began in high school through an early childhood education program. During a class visit to Walnut Farm, she discovered the Montessori philosophy and felt an immediate connection—an experience that shaped her career and continues to inspire her work today. Outside the classroom, Sara enjoys camping with her family, fishing, baking, and thrifting for unique finds. She and her husband, high school sweethearts, have been married for over five years and are parents to their son, Wyatt, a student in the Persimmon Room. Their family also includes two beloved dogs, Maggie and Ruger. Sara feels grateful to share her passion for early learning each day. Sara joined Walnut Farm in 2017.

James Moudry

James has worked in PK–12 education throughout his career. He has served as head of school, associate head of school, division head, classroom teacher, and athletic coach. James holds a B.A. in Mathematics, Philosophy, and Psychology from the University of Minnesota, a Master’s degree in Montessori Education and the Whole School Leadership certificate from Loyola University Maryland, and an AMI Montessori teaching credential. He presents at Montessori conferences and consults with schools on teacher education and leadership. James joined Walnut Farm in 2025.

Jen Pelczarski

Bio coming soon.

Amelia Rushing

Bio coming soon.

Heather Shakespeare

Heather relocated to Arkansas from California in 2017. This Kansas born and West Coast native (30 years) may have her Degree in Accounting from California, but she started her education as fellow Montessorian pupil at BNC in Tulsa, Oklahoma. For as long as she can remember, she has had voracious love of: learning, all things flora and fauna, and being of help to others (in word and in deed). It is only natural this combination of talents would find her right at home at her last California job: Finance Assistant at Laguna Blanca School. Heather spent 8 life changing years at this EK-12 college prep school. Whether she was “helping with lunch service, chaperoning class trips, or volunteering at fund raising events”, Heather says she found her true vocation: helping build our youth for the future. So, it goes without saying she LEAPT at the opportunity of rejoining the world of child education when she saw her chance. Heather gleefully joined the WFMS family in 2023 and hopes to follow in the footsteps of her adored predecessor, Leslie Johnson, by retiring here! <3. She has two cats and a niece in Kansas. Heather has over 20 years’ experience in Accounting and over 10 years’ experience working with children.

Ruby Standifer

Bio coming soon.

Danielle Tasker

Bio coming soon.

Stephanie Throop

Stephanie Throop is the Lead Guide in the Primary Dogwood classroom. She has served in many roles throughout her years in the Walnut Farm community. Stephanie earned her Montessori credential from the Center for Guided Montessori Studies in 2021 and brings warmth, creativity, and joy to the classroom each day. She loves weaving art into the children’s experiences and bringing literature to life through storytelling and hands-on exploration. Stephanie has four children who have all attended Walnut Farm, and she continues to see the impact of Montessori education reflected in their daily lives. Outside the classroom, she enjoys art history, baking, and raising farm animals on her family’s small farm in Centerton. She joined Walnut Farm Montessori School in 2007.

Koralys Vallejo-Muñoz

Koralys Vallejo, is pleased to be a Toddler lead guide and Spanish teacher for the Toddler and Elementary program. She is originally from Puerto Rico. Koralys has a Montessori Nido & Infants (0-3 years old) MACTE Teacher Diploma, a master’s degree in business administration, and a bachelor’s degree in Sign Language Interpreter. Her journey in Montessori began 4 years ago, and she says she loves and enjoys every day of it. In her free time, she likes to be with her family, mountain biking, hiking, and yoga. She has over 10 years of teaching experience and has always enjoyed working with children.

Jamie Van Horn

Originally from Texas, Jamie has been in NWA since the early 2000s. She has been working at WFMS since 2006, having followed her children to school. Her love for her children brought her to Walnut Farm, and her love for children has kept her here. Jamie graduated from Texas A+M University with a B.S. in Journalism and received her MACTE certification to teach Montessori many years later. Jamie loves the outdoors and spends many hours hiking, biking, and canoeing all over Arkansas with her husband, Greg. They have two children, both of whom attended the University of Arkansas. She and her husband began a non-profit organization to free Little Sugar Creek and are currently actively fighting to do so.

Autumn Wisniewski

Autumn was born and raised in Siloam Springs, Arkansas and currently lives in Fayetteville. This will be her first full school year working at WFMS and she is so happy to be a part of the Walnut Farm family! She helped run her dad’s local farm and is passionate about teaching children how to grow food. She is currently in school earning her bachelor’s degree in Family and Human Development. Autumn has over 2 years of experience working with children.

About Us

Our Team

Emely Aguirre

Roselyn Aguirre

Elyana Anderson

Michelle Bashore

Jill Bauer

Briana Cooper

Azusa Crawford

Jennifer Crosby

Shreya Das

Jade Easter

Alli Fosse

Michelle Garcia-Martinez

Kimberly Hodoway

Trynyty Holmes

Paige Kemp

Whitney Kimbro

Kerrey Klatt-Klingerman

Dan Klug

Coleen Lewis

Sara Lopez

James Moudry

Jen Pelczarski

Amelia Rushing

Heather Shakespeare

Ruby Standifer

Danielle Tasker

Stephanie Throop

Koralys Vallejo-Muñoz

Jamie Van Horn

Autumn Wisniewski

– WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 28 –

SCHOOL CLOSED

School is closed again due to continued hazardous road conditions.