Our Teachers and Staff

Head of School

Marilyn Papke

Director & Head of School

My name is Marilyn Papke. I am the Head of School for Montessori School of Lone Tree. I have spent my entire career working with and for children. I have held every role in the preschool arena including Director, Training Director, and Regional Director over multiple centers and schools. I have had the opportunity to work in every facet of the business on the Operational side and supported over 2000 locations. The past ten years I have managing operations for a charter school network in Arizona. Leading operations for 30 K-12 schools encompassing campus safety, enrollment, compliance, technology, school office management, school nurses, after-school programs and development and opening of the first preschool for the organization.

I am just shy of being a native of Colorado. I am a Colorado State University graduate with a degree in Early Childhood. I have traveled the United States working with children and there is no place I would rather call home than Colorado. I am looking forward to working with the families, staff, and children of Montessori School of Lonetree.

MSLT Support Team

Dawn Finnegan

Assistant Director

Dawn's Bio

Hi! My name is Dawn Finnegan and I have worked for MSLT since June 2013. My first experience with Montessori was when I came and observed Lori K. in her classroom. I was hooked! I fell in love with Montessori and I wanted to be part of it. Taking a leap of faith, I quit my full time job to work part time at MSLT in the summer program, with no guarantee of a job after the summer. At the end of summer I was put on the sub list and for 6 months I subbed in various capacities (classroom, office, full day, and the kitchen). In January, I was offered a full time assistant position. I have always felt and known that MSLT was where I was meant to be. It just took a leap of faith! I am the Directress of the Southeast Classroom and recently have moved into the Assistant Director position as well.

When I am not at MSLT I am spending time with my hubby, Scott. We love going to Rockies games, supporting our nephew at his lacrosse games, spending time with our niece, reading, going to movies, traveling and spending time with friends and family. We are so lucky to have all of our family in Colorado!

I feel so blessed to be at MSLT and surrounded by all these wonderful co-workers and children. I’m excited to see what the future holds.

Kaela Bryant

Chef

Kaela's Bio

Hi, I’m Ms. Kaela and let me tell you a little bit about myself.

I’ve been teaching and cooking for preschool children since May of 2016. I really enjoy watching the children grow and get all the nutrition from the meals I cook!

In my spare time I enjoy fishing, hunting, pretty much anything that is outside! I spend alot of time on my parents farm helping with all the animals there!

Marci Pilon

Director of Operations

Marci's Bio

My name is Marci Pilon, and I am the Operations Director for the Montessori School at Lone Tree. I spent the last 10 years working as the Executive Assistant in the Child Youth Family Division of Human Services in Larimer County. With a Master’s Degree in Music Therapy from Colorado State University, I have also worked with children with special needs, at-risk youth, developmentally challenged adults, and residents in long term care facilities. I am a professional violinist with the Fort Collins Symphony and enjoy spending time with my husband John, two daughters, traveling, skiing, cycling, and making jewelry. I am excited to be in this position, with my passion for children and dedication to carry on the legacy of my mother-in-law, Jean Pilon who founded MSLT.

Marguerite Pilon

Communications Director

Marguerite's Bio

My name is Marguerite Pilon, and I manage all of our communications for MSLT! My grandmother was the original founder of MSLT, and I am so excited to continue on her legacy at the school.

I was born and raised in Fort Collins, CO and now reside in Steamboat Springs. I graduated from Seattle University after studying Art, Design, and Environmental Studies in 2021. I moved back to Colorado to ski and be close to my family. I love painting, drawing, and doing anything creative in my art studio. I have 8 goats that I take care of and live with a mini ski hill in my backyard!

Pearl

School Mascot

Pearl's Bio

Pearl is both our most essential and cutest staff member. You can find Pearl lounging in our front office, greeting students as they arrive for the day and overseeing our operations so they run smoothly!

Faculty

Dawn

Directress

Dawn's Bio

Hi! My name is Dawn Finnegan and I have worked for MSLT since June 2013. My first experience with Montessori was when I came and observed Lori K. in her classroom. I was hooked! I fell in love with Montessori and I wanted to be part of it. Taking a leap of faith, I quit my full time job to work part time at MSLT in the summer program, with no guarantee of a job after the summer. At the end of summer I was put on the sub list and for 6 months I subbed in various capacities (classroom, office, full day, and the kitchen). In January, I was offered a full time assistant position. I have always felt and known that MSLT was where I was meant to be. It just took a leap of faith! I am now the Directress of the Southeast Classroom and have my Associate Early Childhood Credential.

I feel so blessed to be at MSLT and surrounded by all these wonderful co-workers and children. I’m excited to see what the future holds.

Peggy

Directress

Peggy's Bio

Before moving to Highlands Ranch, I spent thirteen years in Dallas, TX and Colorado Springs, CO as a PK teacher. I began my career at Montessori at Lone Tree in the summer of 1995 as the full day coordinator, working under our founder Jean Pilon. After twenty plus years in the full day, I moved to be a morning assistant in the NW classroom. After 30 years of experience at MSLT, I have moved to Directress of the Northwest classroom in Fall 2024. MSLT is such a beautiful, loving, nurturing school and I am blessed to be working with your children. I am Director Qualified and have an Early Learning Teacher Credential

My husband Lew and myself have been married for over fifty years. We have three wonderful children & three grandchildren whom all attended MSLT.

My favorite things are being with my family, gospel music and shopping.

Andi

Directress

Andi's Bio

I’m Andi Bauder, a Montessori Directress at the Montessori School at Lone Tree. Every day, I’m inspired by Maria Montessori’s words: “Children are human beings to whom respect is due, superior to us by reason of their innocence and of the greater possibilities of their future.” This philosophy reminds me why I do what I do — to guide each child with respect, curiosity, and a belief in their limitless potential.

I first discovered the Montessori approach while substitute teaching at a Montessori school in New Mexico during college. That experience sparked something in me, and when I moved to Colorado, I was eager to find a school where I could truly begin my teaching journey. I joined MSLT in 2018 as a Full Day Assistant in the SW classroom. From there, I became a Morning Assistant in the NW classroom, and after earning my Montessori certification through NAMC, I spent three wonderful years as the Lead Teacher in that same classroom.

In September of 2024, I stepped away from the classroom to welcome my daughter, Jane. Though I took a pause from teaching, my love for the Montessori method and for working with children never left. I’m so grateful to return to MSLT as a Directress — especially back in the SW classroom where my journey began. It feels like coming home.

Outside of school, I love spending time with my husband Nate, our daughter Jane, and our dog Sierra. As a family, we enjoy being outdoors, hiking, kayaking, and visiting local farmers markets. I also make time for fitness and enjoy working out at F45 between school and home life.

Cherie

Directress

Cherie's Bio

Cherie spent 20 years in Jeffco Montessori schools doing occupational therapy and teaching in a home school enrichment program for elementary aged children then teaching Montessori 3-6 year olds. Now she’s excited to join the kind and caring team in the private sector, at MSLT.

Cherie is grateful for a wonderful husband and family and relishes time spent with her eight grandchildren. She enjoys serving in her church community and traveling anywhere and anytime she can. Being in the outdoors always makes her happy, especially when she can be hiking or bicycling. She finds it incredibly rewarding to witness the wonder and potential in each child and to play a role in their development. She is excited to bring her passion for teaching and nurturing young children to Montessori School at Lone Tree.

Kainoa

Directress

Kainoa's Bio

Aloha kākou, hello everyone! My name is Kainoa Garcia. I was born and raised in the beautiful state of Hawai’i.

Prior to coming to Montessori School at Lone Tree (MSLT), I spent over 10 years providing one on one assistance to families and their children, including aiding with early childhood development. The opportunity to be engaged in children’s social, emotional, and academic growth from infancy to adolescence has truly been one of the most fulfilling experiences.

I began my journey at MSLT in 2024, initially serving as a teacher’s assistant and a member of the full-day team. It has been incredibly rewarding to grow within this community, and I am proud to have stepped into the role of Directress.

I hold my Early Childhood Montessori credential from the Montessori Education Center of the Rockies (MECR), an AMS/MACTE accredited program. Driven by a deep love for the Montessori pedagogy, I believe that every moment carries the potential for discovery and growth. In our classroom, I balance a high standard of professionalism with an open heart, striving to lead a nurturing, joyful environment rooted in love and respect for each individual child.

When I’m not in school, you can find me in my garden, constantly hunting for any available space to cultivate new plants, or out exploring the wilderness. My husband, our Chocolate Lab, Cooper, and I love camping, paddleboarding, hiking, and embracing nature.

As Lone Tree residents, we deeply enjoy being involved in and supporting our local community. I am extremely excited to foster deep connections and share unforgettable moments with the wonderful students and families in our MSLT ohana!

Lisa

Teaching Assistant and Kindergarten Lead Teacher

Lisa's Bio

Hi Ya’ll! I’m Lisa Place and I relocated to Colorado from Georgia in 2013. I first became acquainted with Montessori in high school as a tutor for children with dyslexia. My two children attended a Montessori school in Macon, Georgia at which time I was an active parent and substitute teacher. I then completed the Montessori Foundations (Assistant) training through Montessori Educational Programs International (MEPI) and have taught at the primary level since 1997. In addition, I graduated from Florida State University with a BS degree in Criminology and have worked with several child abuse prevention and advocacy programs. My husband, Robert and I have been married since 1988. Our daughter is a general surgeon in Beaufort, South Carolina and our son is an engineer in St. Louis, Missouri. I truly believe their success is rooted in a love for learning which was fostered by their Montessori education.

Being outdoors is a passion and I can usually be found fly fishing, hiking, or snowshoeing on the weekends. I also enjoy reading, traveling, and exploring Colorado.

I have been with MSLT since 2017 and I am thrilled to be an Assistant in the SE Classroom and the Kindergarten Lead Teacher. Guiding, loving and supporting your children fills me with much joy.

Debbie

Full Day Coordinator

Debbie's Bio

My name is Deborah Cse’cs, and I am a Highlands Ranch resident. New to Colorado, I am originally from California. I grew up in a suburb of LA County, and spent my young adult years on the Central Coast (Pismo Beach) where my parents reside.

I was married to my husband Joe 25 years ago, and we share 6 adult children and 12 grandchildren. My life has been joyful and full, taking care of our home, and children. In addition to this, I’ve directed a non profit organization which hosted events for our military service men, women, and families. I was also an owner of a retail fashion boutique in the Temecula Promenade Mall for a number of years.

It was a big step leaving California to come to Colorado, but I’ve fallen in love with this beautiful state over the last 2 years! We have an amazing group of family and friends here, and I’m very thankful for that!

I’ve come to realize over the last 25 years, it takes a village to raise a tribe! I feel overwhelmingly blessed to be a part of the Montessori family; They have welcomed me with open arms! My hope is to serve your children and this community in love, with gratitude, every day I’m given!

I look forward to this coming year.

Sue

Full Day Coordinator

Sue's Bio

Hello! My name is Sue Mitchell and I am the North Full Day Coordinator and a Teacher Assistant to Ms. Cherie in the North East Classroom. My teaching experience spans 15 years, rooted in both elementary and early childhood learning experiences that have shaped the way I connect with young learners each day. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from St. Bonaventure University and later deepened my passion for early learning with a Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Literacy Instruction from Michigan State University.

My own story begins at the Jersey Shore, where I grew up with sandy toes, salty air, and a love for the ocean that still stays with me today. Life took a beautiful turn when I married my college sweetheart, Doug, and together we set out west, trading the shoreline for the mountains of Colorado. For the past 30 years, these mountains have been home—where we raised our three wonderful sons and built a life full of adventure, laughter, and plenty of activity. Our home is now happily shared with Walt, our spirited one-year-old Vizsla, and our three cats, Leo, Phillip, and Olive, who each bring their own personality and charm to our days.

When I’m not in the classroom, you can often find me enjoying the Colorado outdoors—whether it’s playing a round of golf, skiing down snowy slopes, or setting off to explore new places with my family. Traveling has always been one of my greatest joys, as it allows me to experience new perspectives and bring fresh inspiration back into my work with children.

While much of my teaching experience has been in traditional classroom settings, I have always felt a natural connection to the Montessori philosophy. I believe children thrive when they are given the freedom to explore, create, and learn through hands-on experiences and meaningful relationships. I see learning as a journey—one that unfolds differently for every child—and I deeply value supporting their independence, curiosity, and confidence along the way.

Some of my most treasured moments as an educator come from watching children grow throughout the year—seeing their confidence blossom, friendships form, and interests take shape in unexpected and beautiful ways. My goal is always to create a classroom that feels like a second home: warm, welcoming, and filled with a sense of belonging where every child feels safe, seen, and celebrated for who they are.

It is truly a privilege to be part of your child’s early school experience here at MSLT, and I feel grateful every day for the opportunity to learn and grow alongside them.

Natalie

Teaching Assistant

Natalie's Bio

Hello! I have been a part of a Montessori community for almost a decade as both a lead teacher as an assistant in Southern California and Colorado. I received my certificate in Early Childhood Montessori in 1997 through the National Center for Montessori Education. I received my bachelor’s in English and Creative Writing from the University of Missouri-Columbia in 1994. I love being a part of the lives of children and in educating both children and their parents.

I believe the Montessori environment is a special and rewarding place and encourages all of us to be part of a peaceful and tight-knit community. Thank you for the opportunity to guide your children as we bring out the best in them and all the rich Montessori environment has to offer.

Teresa

Teaching Assistant

Teresa's Bio

I am Teresa Hart. I taught elementary school for 30 years. I have worked with preschools for a couple years. I started at a young age babysitting and have always done something involving children in my life.

I am married and my husband and I have a teenage son together. He has a daughter that just got married who lives in California. We enjoy spending time together and watching our son play football.

Kate

Teaching Assistant

Kate's Bio

Hi, my name is Kate. I’m a native of Colorado and I love traveling, being out in nature, and spending time with my friends and family-which includes my three cats. I really enjoy working with children and making a positive impact!

Laura

Teaching Assistant

Laura's Bio

I’m Laura Cruz, a Montessori educator with 7 years of experience and a certificate from CGMS, an AMI-accredited program. I’m passionate about creating a nurturing environment where children can learn and grow. I believe in supporting each child’s natural curiosity and individual development. Outside of school, I enjoy arts and crafts and spending time with my family, including our two lively Chihuahuas. I’m dedicated to helping children reach their full potential and I feel fortunate to be part of their educational journey.

Dom

Teaching Assistant

Dom's Bio

Hi my name is Dom, I am 19 years old born and raised in Colorado. I’ve been coaching young kids ranging from 4-13 in football and basketball. I’ve really enjoyed the experiences and I’m excited to continue with those experiences and memories here at MSLT.

Saryn

Teaching Assistant

Saryn's Bio

Hi! My name is Saryn. I am 17 and a Colorado native! I was a student at Montessori School at Lone Tree from ages 2.5-5 and was taught by a couple teachers who are still here today! I loved my experience here as a child and love it even more now that I have the privilege of getting to know your kids and watching them learn and grow! I am also a full time student at an online school, but in my free time I love to be outdoors camping, hiking, paddle boarding, etc. I also love traveling, going to concerts, and spending time with my boyfriend, friends, and family!

Morgan

Teaching Assistant

Morgan's Bio

Hi there! My name is Morgan, and I am 21 years old. I have been in the field of early childhood for about 6 years now. Working with children is my biggest passion. I am currently in school to get my bachelor’s degree in social work. I have one dog, Kruger. He is my favorite adventure buddy! I cannot wait to get to know each of your children and your family.