Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Affiliations
Timeline
Stephanie  Dowless

Stephanie Dowless

Charlotte,NC
“The greatest gift we can give our children are the roots of responsibility and the wings of independence”
Maria Montessori

Summary

Montessori Teacher with 24 years of teaching experience centered in Montessori philosophy. Strong classroom management skills with NAMC training and certification to promote Montessori principles. Creative, passionate,and dedicated to developing and sustaining highest quality education in the prepared environment.

Overview

25
25
years of professional experience
2
2

Certifications and BS Degree

Work History

Lead Montessori Teacher

Charlotte Preparatory School
01.2017 - 04.2024
  • Assisted in creating a safe and nurturing classroom environment that promoted emotional well-being and academic growth for all students.
  • Contributed to school-wide initiatives by participating in professional development opportunities and sharing best practices with peers.
  • Developed strong relationships with students, fostering personal growth and academic success through mentorship.
  • Promoted a culture of inclusivity within the classroom, celebrating diversity and fostering respect among students.
  • Monitored and tracked children's progress on daily, weekly and monthly basis.
  • Established a strong rapport with families through open communication channels that supported both academic achievements as well as personal goals.
  • Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay current with Montessori methodology and best practices, further enhancing instructional abilities.
  • Promoted a positive classroom environment by establishing clear expectations and maintaining consistent routines.
  • Enhanced student growth by implementing Montessori principles and individualized learning plans.

Lead Preschool TK Teacher

St. Andrew’s United Methodist Church
08.2008 - 01.2017
  • Developed weekly lesson plans and activities to engage children and promote learning.
  • Designed creative lesson plans that incorporated hands-on activities and interactive learning experiences to foster curiosity and engagement in young learners.
  • Incorporated music, art and literature into curriculum.
  • Guided students to develop social, emotional and physical skills.
  • Maintained well-controlled classrooms by clearly outlining standards and reinforcing positive behaviors.
  • Gave one-on-one attention to children while maintaining overall focus on entire group.
  • Established positive communication with parents in daily conversation and formal conferences.

Lead Montessori Teacher

The Charlotte Montessori School
08.1999 - 02.2006
  • Prepared classroom and materials according to Montessori pedagogy and needs of children.
  • Established inspiring classroom setting with systems and procedures that managed student behavior, movement and learning.
  • Promoted a culture of inclusivity within the classroom, celebrating diversity and fostering respect among students.
  • Observed children and interpreted classroom needs.
  • Helped students develop self-esteem and life skills by fostering healthy conflict-resolution, critical thinking, and communication.

Education

Montessori Certification

North American Montessori Center, Clemson Montessori School
2003

Bachelor of Science - Elementary/Special Education With A Focus in Psyc.

Appalachian State University, Boone, NC
1999

Skills

  • Practical Life Skills
  • Montessori Method
  • Parent-Teacher Communication
  • Grace and Courtesy
  • Knowledge of multicultural education
  • Great observation abilities
  • Student-Centered Learning
  • Sensorial Education
  • Patient and flexible
  • Understanding of the scope and sequence of Montessori lessons and materials

Certification

  • Montessori Certification Training - 2002-2004
  • CPR and First Aid Certified

Affiliations

  • American Montessori Society Member

Timeline

Lead Montessori Teacher - Charlotte Preparatory School
01.2017 - 04.2024
Lead Preschool TK Teacher - St. Andrew’s United Methodist Church
08.2008 - 01.2017
Lead Montessori Teacher - The Charlotte Montessori School
08.1999 - 02.2006
North American Montessori Center - , Montessori Certification
Appalachian State University - Bachelor of Science, Elementary/Special Education With A Focus in Psyc.
Stephanie Dowless