Our Team

HEAD OF SCHOOL & LEAD GUIDE

Cynthia Dahl

SHE/HER

My goal is to foster a community that feels safe to grow both emotionally and intellectually. This includes parents, staff and the children we serve.

  • Bachelor’s degree in Anthropology, Western Washington University 

  • Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Loyola University

  • Primary Montessori credential, Montessori Northwest (AMI)

LEAD GUIDE

Rhea Harrison

SHE/HER

Working with children grants me the opportunity to tell the truth every day -- in clear, simple, and positive ways.  Dr. Montessori saw education as a tool for peace, and I find hope in our world through connecting children to the truths of nature.

  • Attended Evergreen State College & the School of Visual Concepts

  • AMI 3-6 credential, Maria Montessori Education Foundation, Auckland, New Zealand

MONTESSORI PROGRAM COORDINATOR

Regan Becker

SHE/HER

I support staff, learners, and families with a sense of humor, flexibility, and compassionate communication. I use an anti-bias/ anti-racist approach with curriculum, instruction, and relationships.

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology of Film, Linfield University

  • Elementary I Montessori credential, MEIPN (AMS)

  • K-12 state teaching certification (CA)

CLASSROOM ASSISTANT

Korista Minney

SHE/HER

Preschoolers hold a special place in my heart, because they embody boundless curiosity and unbridled enthusiasm. Witnessing their eyes light up with wonder as they embark on the exciting journey of learning and discovery is what fuels my passion for teaching.

  • Bachelor’s Degree in English, Central Washington University

CLASSROOM AIDE

Janey Salazar

SHE/HER

I love working with children and watching them grow and learn.  I hope to continue working with children throughout my career.

  • Pursuing a Bachelors of Applied Science degree in Early Childhood Education, North Seattle Community College

CLASSROOM ASSISTANT

Alyss Golden

SHE/HER

It's important for me to make the world a better place each day. Education, particularly with young learners, allows me to make someone feel better every day, and that is a gift I appreciate whenever I wake up!

  • Bachelors of Arts in English, Grinnell College

CLASSROOM ASSISTANT

Charlotte Zinda

SHE/HER

In my work every day, I strive to bring patience, understanding, and a growth mindset. I seek to help children embrace who they are, feel independent and capable, and feel a sense of belonging in the classroom and the world.

  • Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Carleton College 

MUSIC TEACHER

Sarah Shannon

SHE/HER

Sarah studied opera at the University of Maryland. After college, she recorded and toured with the 90s indie rock band Velocity Girl and explored children’s music with local Seattle kids music band The Not-Its. Sarah is a parent and has taught music at five pre-schools, including Lighthouse Montessori!

CUSTODIAN

Vicki Mullins

Northwest Center provides employment services in Washington State to adults with disabilities in King County, Snohomish County, Pierce County, Okanogan County, and Spokane County. Northwest Center places people in jobs that match their skills, and then provides them with the appropriate level of support at each step along their career path, every step of the way. We are so happy to have Vicki on our team!

Lighthouse Montessori Board

  • Jeremy Lightsmith

    CO-FOUNDER & BOARD CHAIR

    I want to create a community around this school, its children, and their parents.

  • Julie Vano

    ALUMNI REPRESENTATIVE & SECRETARY

    I want the Lighthouse community to continue to thrive and shine.

  • Ramsey Ness

    TREASURER

    I make sure we know where we are and can get to where we want to be financially.

  • Alison Marra

    PARENT REPRESENTATIVE

    I act as a conduit for the parent community to bring their ideas, thoughts, and voices to the board.

  • Elizabeth Truman

    MONTESSORI EXPERT

Alumni

It takes a village, and we are grateful to all of the people that have helped us get here. These are some of our alumni. Thank you, and best of luck! 

Alumni Teachers: Abby Maxwell, Brecca Smith, Jean Melom, Karissa “KK” Lightsmith (also Co-Founder/Former Head of School), Kristina Hunt, Lavanya Reddy, Michael Meyers, and Rocio Holland

Alumni Assistants: Carrie Daugherty, Charlie Morrison, Denn Guerrier, Elizabeth Sylvia, Faust Barkovskii, Jason Lien, Kaylee Cormier, Lila Faria, Lily Hardy, Maggie Shannon, Marc Rossoff, Nicolette Riggins, Rachel Light, Rhena-Dae Cwiek, Rompas Ceci Stell, Sadie Bates, and Tyisha Nedd

Alumni Board Members: Ada Hamilton, Emily Smith, Ferran Canals, January Fredericks, Jen Sexton, Jenny Roraback-Carson, Katy Roberts, LeAnne Chow, Lena Prickett, Michael Smith, Michelle Harrison, Nathan Soccorsy, Tehut Getahun, and Tianna Fallgatter