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.

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. Morgan Davenport: Primary Assistant (Maple)

Bio & Picture coming soon!

Mrs. Rachel Pelser: Primary Assistant (Maple)

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!

Lower Elementary

Mrs. BobbiJo Ramsey: Lower Teacher (Oak Left)

Ms. Brenna Carter: Lower Assistant (Oak Left)

Mrs. Theresa Rodriguez: Lower Teacher (Oak Right)

Hello!

My name is Theresa, and I am the Lead Lower Elementary teacher in the Oak Right classroom. This will be my third year at One World Montessori, and I am honored to continue my journey here in this new role. I recently completed my Lower Elementary Montessori certification and feel grateful to learn and grow alongside my students each day.

I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Studies from Western Governors University. My teaching philosophy centers on fostering independence, curiosity, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning while honoring each child’s unique path of development.

Along with my Montessori certification, I have completed professional development in Positive Discipline, Montessori and Inclusion, Montessori Math Curriculum, Montessori and the Science of Reading, Building Strong Writers, and Keys to Cosmic Education. These experiences help me create a nurturing, engaging, and inclusive classroom where every child feels valued and supported.

Before becoming a teacher, I spent over a decade as a stay-at-home mom while supporting my husband’s 24-year military career. Those years were some of the most meaningful of my life and taught me patience, flexibility, and the importance of meeting each child where they are. Volunteering in my children’s schools and serving in PTO leadership sparked my passion for education and ultimately led me to the Montessori classroom.

As a military family, we had the opportunity to live in a few different communities, including three unforgettable years in Okinawa, Japan. That experience deepened my appreciation for different cultures, diverse perspectives, and the importance of creating a classroom where every child feels a sense of belonging.

Outside the classroom, I enjoy reading, spending time at the beach, and making memories with my family. I am so incredibly happy to be part of the One World Montessori community, and I am looking forward to a wonderful year in one of the Oak classrooms filled with learning, growth, discovery, and many joyful moments together.

Ms. Zoe Jones: Lower Assistant (Oak Right)

Bio & Picture coming soon!

Upper Elementary

Mrs. Giselle Orozco:

Upper Elementary Teacher (Cypress) & Before/After Care

Mrs. Becky Dreyer: Upper Assistant (Cypress) & Admission Director

Bio & Picture coming soon!

Ms. Catharine Knapp: Upper Elementary Teacher (Magnolia)

Hello, everyone!

My name is Ms. Catharine Knapp, and I am proud to be part of the One World Montessori family! I have been teaching since 2008 and hold certifications in Reading (K–12), Language Arts (4–9), Science (4–9), and Mathematics (4–12).

Teaching is more than a career for me— it’s a calling. I love helping students discover their strengths, build confidence, and develop a genuine love of learning. My goal is to create a classroom where every student feels safe, valued, challenged, and encouraged to grow.

As both a Montessori teacher and the mother of a Montessori student, I have experienced the Montessori philosophy from both sides of the classroom. Watching my son’s love of learning grow has strengthened my belief that every child thrives when given the opportunity to learn at their own pace in a nurturing environment.

When I’m not in the classroom, I enjoy reading, singing karaoke, playing board and card games, and spending time with my family and friends. I look forward to getting to know each of you and sharing a wonderful year of learning and discovery together!

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 four year old son who is also here at One World, and mom to three crazy dogs. I am a history nerd and awaiting to start my fall semester at SNHU in history!

I started at One World in 2023, and immediately fell in love with the community. 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. I truly wouldn’t want to be anywhere else!

Middle & High School plus 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, and a lot of chickens! This is my 6th year at One World Montessori. Because I love OWM so much, we decided that this would be our forever home! This summer we completed building our dream home in Surf City. Not like building a house wasn’t crazy enough… but to add to it last year my husband Roger and I, had our first baby, Hank. He is the sweetest sweetest little outdoor boy! Having a child puts your world in a completely different perspective. We have loved every second of this new journey.

I have always wanted to be a teacher since I was in my own 3rd grade class. Sometimes being a teacher it’s very easy to doubt yourself and what you bring to the table. Every year the students have reminded me how enjoyable and how much they learned, every year. 2024 I won Teacher of the Year in Onslow County….. what an honor, shock, and reassurance that was. It was one of the most rewarding moments I have ever felt. I have the pleasure of being an assistant in the lower elementary classroom, interning in the primary classroom, this is my 4th year working along side April and Kirk. Coming to “work” everyday with two of the most wonderful people I’ve ever met, in a place that has created its own little beautiful world of OWM…. Calling it a “ dream” is an understatement. But aside from that part of my job, it truly is my passion being the Experiential Learning Teacher.
I love being able to get with the students and discussion what their passionate about in life, and creating a curriculum based off of that. Creating a community and passion/purpose in children is my number one priority….Building connection to the real life world. 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, wood workshop, community connection, learning how to plan and budget a trip and living expenses,  passion projects, worldly project, learning what entrepreneurship is, taking money management classes, running field day and carnival day, cooking, everyday skills, community brunch with both classes, restaurant night, looking at world problems and solutions, working with the community at wildlife sanctuaries, plus so much more!

It truly is a dream to work at the best school! I love One World Montessori and wouldn’t want to be anywhere else!

Mr. Charles Coakley Jr.: Music, Theater Director, & Culinary Exploration

Charles Coakley, Jr. is the Director of Music and Theatre and also teaches Culinary Exploration—a new addition he’s especially excited about this year! With more than 20 years of experience in the performing arts, Charles has taught voice, piano, chorus, and musical theatre to students of all ages.

Before stepping into the classroom, Charles performed professionally as a featured vocalist in Festival of the Lion King at Walt Disney World Resorts and as a Lead Vocalist for Celebrity Cruise Line, traveling the world and sharing his passion for music.

More recently, Charles brought his creativity into the kitchen, competing on Season 4 of Great Chocolate Showdown (Food Network Canada, now The Flavour Network), where he showcased his love for baking and bold flavors.

Whether he’s helping students find their voice on stage or in the kitchen, Charles brings energy, encouragement, and a genuine love for the arts to everything he does.

Mrs. Debbi DePamphilis: Middle & High Assistant

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.

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.