Faculty
Mrs. April Kennedy: Owner & Middle/High School Teacher
Hello Everyone—
My name is April Kennedy, and I am the Upper Elementary and Middle School teacher at One World Montessori. This is my eight year in a Montessori classroom, but I have spent most of my adult life teaching others. I graduated with a Masters Degree in English in 1996. Once I completed my degree, I taught at West Virginia University as an adjunct English instructor. Though I loved my work on a college campus, I knew I needed to find a job with benefits, so I began teaching English at a Catholic high school in WV. During the two years I was there, I completely fell in love with my students, but my family had moved to NC, and I missed them terribly (plus WV winters can be brutal). I moved to Wilmington, NC in 2004 and began teaching at a high school in Duplin County. Once again, I fell in love with my students, but more importantly, I fell in love with the biology teacher, and we were married in the summer of 2005.
After we got married, I started teaching English at a local community college. During my time there, I completed 18 graduate hours in Communication Studies, and I taught both English and Public Speaking. I also became a mother to two beautiful little girls, and I decided to take a break from full-time teaching so I could spend some important time with them. This also freed me up to take my oldest to a Montessori school. While she was there, I began learning more about the Montessori philosophy, and I was committed to giving this amazing educational experience to both of my daughters. Though we were forced to take a break from the Montessori classroom for a few years, while we were away, I became even more convinced that my children would flourish most in a Montessori environment. I also began to realize that I didn’t just want the philosophy for them—I also wanted it for myself.
In the summer of 2015 I started my Upper Elementary Montessori Training with Seacoast, an AMS and MACTE accredited training center. In 2017, I completed my training in both Upper and Lower Elementary. During my training, I saw the true genius of Maria Montessori come to life in her materials and lessons. I saw her dedication in revealing the interconnectedness of all things–from the stars, to the wind, to the birds, to us. And, most importantly, I became even more committed to upholding and respecting the dignity and individuality of each child.
In August 2019, my dream of having my very own Montessori school came true when my husband and I decided to open up One World Montessori. We both believe that children deserve everything we can give them, and we were incredibly lucky to find people who we felt could give our students the world. We also wanted to build a community for parents where everyone feels loved, respected, welcomed, and valued. We need each other because we are all in this together.
Mr. Kirk Kennedy: Owner & Middle/High School Teacher
Hello Everyone—
My name is Kirk Kennedy, and I am the Middle/High School Math and Science teacher at One World Montessori. I have been on this journey with my wife since we began the school in 2019; however, my first year in the classroom with her was 2023-24.
I am very excited to be working at OWM full time. It seems that I have spent my entire life in the classroom. I graduated from UNC at Chapel Hill with a BS in Biology and a Minor in Chemistry & Physics. I was in the pre-med and planned on being a doctor. However, medical school was not meant to be and I decided to go down another path and got my Masters Degree in Science Education. While completing my degree, my former high school principal called and offered me a job as Science teacher at East Duplin High School. I did not know at the time, but I would spend the next twenty-nine years in the classroom teaching. This is also where I met my beautiful wife, so it was all meant to be!
During my educational career, I have been fortunate enough to be given multiple honors and awards. I am a National Board Certified Teacher, a Kenan Fellow, and was named the Teacher of the Year twice. Also, I was the 2015 Outstanding 9-16 Educator Award in Science, Mathematics, and Technology Education. In 2017, I was awarded the Burrough’s Wellcome Career Award for STEM Teachers. I also was a mentor for twenty-five years and was the Lead Biology teacher for Duplin County from 2015-2018 which allowed me to travel to all five high school help mentor teachers on ways to improve teaching.
I am so excited to be at One World Montessori each day moving forward!
Mrs. Lisa Norgard: Remote Finance Administrator
Hello, my name is Lisa Norgard. I am a mother, grandmother & have a new a position at One World Montessori. I was introduced to Montessori through my daughter and granddaughter’s experience with Montessori! My daughter is a Lower Elementary directress and my granddaughter is about to start her 1st year in a Lower Elementary classroom. I have been involved and able to share their experiences. Because of this I decided to make a career change and follow my passion; what better way to get more involved in the Montessori world. I have recently completed the training portion to become Montessori certified in the Early Childhood program (2-1/2 – 6 years) at the Orlando Montessori Teacher Education Institute in Celebration, FL. What an amazing and eye opening experience, no wonder my daughter loves Montessori so much!
I wholeheartedly believe in the Montessori Philosophy of providing an environment that will, through a “hands on” natural process, give each child the ability to learn based on their individual needs. They are able to accomplish this by following their own interests, and creating their own experiences in an environment that cultivates an empowered, confident child with countless opportunities.
I am excited about our working being a part of a team that works together to provide an environment that fosters the most growth and experiences for our children to prepare them for becoming the leaders of tomorrow with endless possibilities.
Mrs. Katie Beasley: OWM Consultant
Hello Everyone—
My name is Katie Beasley, and I was the Primary teacher at One world Montessori during the 2019-20 school year. The Montessori philosophy has shaped my life in profound ways. In 1983, I began attending a Chesapeake Montessori School in Annapolis, MD, and I completed the program there in the 5th grade. My experiences at this school shaped my learning and understanding of the world as a child, but they also inspired me as an adult to become a teacher so I could share the Montessori philosophy with others.
My early Montessori experiences instilled in me a curiosity and love of learning and they led me to the College of Charleston where I graduated with degrees in both history and corporate communications.
In 2003, I joined the faculty of Montessori Children’s School in Jacksonville, North Carolina. I spent a year as an intern under an extraordinary Montessorian Maria Rock, and between her encouragement and my love of the Montessori method, I knew I needed to be trained and certified to teach in a classroom of my own.
I was accepted to The North Carolina Center for Montessori Teacher Education in Apex, North Carolina in 2004 and began my primary studies under the supervision of Ceres Schroer York and Kitty Bravo. This was a unique time to be involved in Montessori in the state because of the focus on public Montessori schools in Durham, Raleigh and Fayetteville. I finished with Full AMS Credentials in Primary education ages 2 ½- 6 in June 2005.
I am a proud wife of a United States marine, and as most military families know, we don’t stay in one place for very long. However, we have been lucky enough to return to Jacksonville, NC a few times, and each time, I have been able to teach and contribute to the Montessori Children’s School in Jacksonville. During our periods away from Jacksonville, I spend time raising our three beautiful daughters.
In 2016, a new Montessori challenge presented itself to me, and I started my Lower Elementary training with MEPI and the Institute of Guided Studies. During this time, I was trained and guided by two master Montessorians, Mary Helen Cline and Beti Wyn Holcombe. My Lower Elementary is complete with the exception of taking my exams.
I enjoyed teaching Primary at One World Montessori during the 2019-20 school year. It is my honor to help OWM instill the same love of learning that I was given as a child into their school.
Mrs. Brittany Forrester: Office Manager
Bio & Picture coming soon!
Primary
Ms. Mae Davenport: Primary Teacher (Maple)
Hello Everyone!
My name is Mae Davenport, I am a Primary Teacher at One World Montessori. I have six years of experience in the Montessori classroom with the last 3 years as a lead teacher here at One World Montessori. I am a military child and though I’ve been all over I have spent most of my life here in Jacksonville, NC.
After I had my first child I began to realize I wanted more for her educational experience than what traditional education provided. I did not want my child to simply learn to read but to learn to love learning. I spent hours researching different learning styles, about what made Montessori different, and began assisting in a primary classroom. A few years later our school opened and I began assisting in the classroom again. As our school grew the need for a second primary classroom arose and I attended training for my Montessori Primary Credential.
In my free time I enjoy time with my family. I have a 9yr old daughter and a (at this time) 9 month old son. We love to travel together with our fur babe and in the summer can be found outside anywhere there is water!
Ms. MorganDavenport: Primary Assistant (Maple)
Bio & Picture coming soon!
Ms. Kate Lasher: Primary Teacher (Dogwood)
Hello, I’m Kate— a native of Western North Carolina and I am excited to trade the Mountains for the Sea! Born and raised in Weaverville, I left NC for New England to attend Mount Holyoke College. At Mount Holyoke, I earned a B.A. in Gender Studies and discovered my love of the Montessori method. During my senior year there, my advisor tasked me with an internship in something new— I found the method— and never looked back! After graduating, I headed south to Austin, Texas. There, I joined the inaugural teaching team at the first public Montessori school in the capital. My love of the method grew and my time there confirmed that Montessori is for everyone! Soon after, I made it official and started Montessori training in 2016. I completed my M.Ed in Early Childhood Education and my full AMS 3-6 credential at Xavier University in 2018.
My work in Montessori has led me to a variety of environments and roles. I led Toddler communities, kindergarten afternoons, homeschool groups, and stepping stones classrooms. I am grateful for my work as a teacher representative on a school board & as an administrator for the early childhood program.
I am eager to join the One World Montessori community and share my joy and passion with young learners and families. I believe that Montessori is truly magical in how it unlocks children’s potential to be their truest selves. I am excited to share my dedication to the method and over 17 years of experience in youth development with the Dogwood community. Outside of the classroom, I enjoy thrifting tiny treasures, spending time with my critter crew—cats Gus and Edie and hound dog Korra— as well as swimming outside as often as I can!
Mrs. Rachel Pelser: Primary Assistant (Dogwood)
My name is Rachel Pelser, and I am a primary assistant. I was born and raised in Virginia, but traveled around the country before settling in North Carolina over ten years ago. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Psychology, and I then spent many years working in animal welfare. However, I have always had an interest in the Montessori Method.
My Montessori experience started in the primary classroom, as a student. I then observed my mother become certified as a Montessori teacher. In addition, my oldest son attended Montessori programs for nine years in two different states. I am excited to be a part of the One World Montessori community!
Ms. Tiffany Gonzales: Primary Floater
Bio & Picture coming soon!
Lower Elementary
Mrs. Danielle Glenn: Lower Assistant (Oak)
Hi there!
My name is Danielle Glenn. A little bit about myself is that I am not a North Carolina native, but I find myself loving it here because I am from the south and I find the welcoming factors are still very similar. I grew up a country girl at heart in a small town, and from there I went to the best university by the sea, Savannah State University and acquired my bachelors degree in biology. I started working on my Masters of Arts in teaching, and then I met my husband and did a bit of traveling with him which led me here!
Mrs. Sara Manos: Lower Teacher (Willow)
Hello, I’m Mrs. Sara!
I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Child and Adolescent Development in 2019 and soon after began my journey into Maria Montessori’s world. I spent my first year as an assistant in the classroom to gain some experience before taking the leap to become a lead. I completed my Montessori training in Early Childhood education in 2021and during that time spent two years teaching in my own primary/ Kindergarten classroom.
In 2022 I moved to North Carolina and joined the OWM team. Although I loved teaching my littles, I decided to continue my education and take on a Lower Elementary Classroom. By 2023 I had completed my Montessori training for Lower Elementary and am now going into my third year as a Lower Elementary lead!
I began working alongside children when I was sixteen. Spending time with them and seeing all that they are capable of only encouraged me to continue into the field of Teaching. I believe my passion for children’s education, combined trainings, and experiences in multiple Montessori schools has prepared me to become a strong asset to your child’s Montessori experience. Working with children has always been a huge joy in my life.
I love the Montessori method and believe it has many advantages for children across all age groups. I am thrilled to be a part of the One World Montessori community. I can’t wait to share our nurturing and inclusive environment for all students. I am ready for a great year and look forward to meeting all the new faces!
Mrs. Debbi DePamphilis: Lower Assistant (Willow)
My name is Debbi DePamphilis.
I’m originally from San Diego California where I was a hairstylist for 37 years. I’ve always worked with children either in classrooms, raising my own children, homeschooling my daughter to volunteering helping children in need. My husband and I followed my daughter Ms. Juliana Freckleton to North Carolina and I wanted to start a new path. Inspiring children to be their best has always been a passion of mine. I’m super excited to be apart of the One World Montessori team. My favorite things to do are boating, fishing, and paddle boarding.
Upper Elementary
Ms. Candice Jarman: Upper Elementary Teacher (Cypress)
Hi there! I am Candice Jarman. I was born and raised here, in North Carolina. I have a Master’s in Education from East Carolina University and have been teaching in public school for the last 11 years.
I am so excited to begin my Montessori journey this year! I have researched for years about Montessori programs for my own children. This summer, I knew it was time to take the leap of faith for not only myself. but also my 9 and 6 year old. We are all very excited to embrace our Montessori journey with One World. I will be teaching Upper Elementary which is where the majority of my teaching experience has been. I am looking forward to getting to know your child/children. I am currently enrolled in the North American Montessori Center Elementary Education program. I look forward to growing along with your children this year!
Mrs. Giselle Orozco: Upper Assistant (Cypress) & Before/After Care
Hi all! I am Mrs.Giselle Orozco. ( Ji-cell, Or-oz-coe ).
Man o’ man am I thrilled to be here! I am an Arkansas Native turned Military Spouse.
My educational background focuses on Early Childhood Education as well as Library Science. I spent three beautiful years working in the library’s children’s department back home in Northwest Arkansas from 2017 – 2020. I loved my homeschool pods and all the fun story times with the children. In 2020 we got the call to move to California. With the world’s condition at the time and so few in-person opportunities to nurture my passion for helping little minds grow, I decided to adjust to my path.
I became a nanny for the surrounding families on base. Nannying continued to be my role even with our move to Virginia the following June 2021. Although those two years were a gift and allowed me to expand my experience with children in another environment, I knew I had learned all I could and desired to return to my roots in a more educational setting.
In 2022 we arrived at our third stop, Jacksonville, NC. I quickly joined the One World Montessori team. This will be my third year as an Upper Elementary Assistant. Thanks to the support of our wonderful directors Kirk and April, I have been given the opportunity to nurture all my creative passions in one space! During my time here I have Assisted directed our first OWM Musical as well as produced One World Montessori’s first yearbook! Woo!
My daily goal when I come into work is to create a space where your child will thrive! I am thrilled to be working at One World Montessori and wish to be a beneficial tool in your child’s education and well-being.
See y’all during carpool!
Ms. Catharine Knapp: Upper Elementary Teacher (Magnolia)
Hello everyone–
My name is Ms. Catharine Knapp, and I am excited to join the One World Montessori family. I have been a dedicated educator since 2008. With certifications in reading for grades K-12, language arts for grades 4-9, science for grades 4-9, and math for grades 4-12, I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to my teaching practice. Over my 15+ years teaching, I have developed innovative teaching strategies that cater to diverse learning styles, ensuring that every student can achieve his or her potential.
In addition to classroom experience, I have participated in various professional development opportunities, staying current with educational trends and best practices. I have been involved in curriculum development,
As a single mother to a Montessori child, I bring empathy and resilience to my classroom every day. My son’s growth and development through OWM’s primary program has been a daily inspiration that reinforces my belief in the power of personalized, student-centered learning. I am convinced the power of education can transform lives, and I am committed to making a positive impact in my students’ lives.
In my spare time, I enjoy spending quality time with my family and friends. I enjoy singing karaoke, playing various card and board games, and reading. I am passionate about taking moments to relax and finding joy in everyday life.
Ms. Kayla Saltamachio: Upper Assistant (Magnolia)
Hello everyone! My name is Kayla Saltamachio.
I am originally from Minnesota, but have been in North Carolina since 2015 when I was stationed here on Camp Lejeune. I am a Marine Corps Veteran, mom of an almost two year old son, and mom to three crazy dogs. I am currently a student in the Funeral services program at Fayetteville Tech.
I started at One World last year, and immediately fell in love with the process. I knew the Montessori way was how I wanted to help my son learn and grow, but I have learned so much in a short amount of time being here. I am so excited to have another year here helping little humans grow and thrive!
Specials
Mrs. Juliana Freckleton: Experiential Learning Teacher / Middle & High Assistant
My name is Juliana Freckleton.
I moved here from Virginia Beach, but originally grew up in San Diego. I now have 3 dogs, 19 chickens, and 1 cat..who bring me so much joy in my little home zoo! This is my 4th year at One World Montessori. I have the pleasure of being an assistant in the lower elementary classroom, interning in the primary classroom, and now a helping hand to April and Kirk in the Middle and High school classrooms.
Aside from that I am also the experiential teacher going on my third year. This has been an incredible opportunity to create and grow a curriculum that the children get to help morph. I love being able to discuss with our students their passions that they are currently gravitated to, but also future plans. We take these ideas and dreams, and try to make them a reality for them. We get to be creative in the aspects of: different heritage culture projects, gardening, learning what entrepreneurship is, taking money management classes, running field day and carnival day, cooking, everyday skills, looking at world problems and solutions, and working with the community at wildlife sanctuaries.
Last year I applied for a state grant and we now have this beautiful outdoor classroom that has been built. This next school year I hope to expand my ideas and grow with wildlife and much more real life skills. I have always wanted to be a teacher since I was in my own 3rd grade class; and here I am living out my dream at the best school! I love One World Montessori and wouldn’t want to be anywhere else!
Mr. Charles Coakley Jr.: Music & Theater Director
Charles Coakley, Jr. is the Owner/Operator of The Charles Coakley, Jr. Conservatory, LLC located in Jacksonville, NC. Charles was a featured performer in “The Festival of the Lion King” at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and a feature vocalist For Celebrity Cruise Lines. He has taught voice, piano, chorus and theatre for over 20 years, and is super excited to be working with One World Montessori!
Aftercare
Ms. Magen Tapscott: Aftercare Teacher
Hi, my name is Magen Tapscott!
I am a Marine Corps Veteran and I have been working with children for over 15 years. I’m currently a Para Educator at Johnston Primary on Camp Lejeune and an aftercare teacher here at One World.
I love being with children and watching them learn and grow. It is a privilege to be a part of their journey.