Faculty

I, Beatriz Burgess have been working with children in Montessori schools in the area since 2002 beginning as an assistant in primary classroom.  After studying Early Childhood Education at Florida International University and attended the Montessori Academy at Edison Lakes and IUSB where I received her AMS certification in 2003.  I have had experience since high school in a 3-6 classroom, in both half and full-day Montessori programs. I’ve lived in the LaPorte County area since 2001, married and mother of two daughters. I have over 20 years of experience in Montessori classrooms starting in Florida during my high school years.  I’ve always had a plan to have my own Montessori School and the time came to make it a reality. In 2018, Discover & Explore Montessori Preschool, INC. opened its doors to the community. Outside of school I enjoys camping, hiking and spending time with my family & friends. 

Laken Byers is a teacher assistant here with us at Discover & Explore Montessori Preschool. During the summer of 2022 she completed her Montessori teacher assistant training. Laken is the oldest of five siblings. She lives in LaPorte with her longtime boyfriend and their preschool age son Evan. Since high school she has had interested in early childhood education & since a young age she has developed a love for children. During her junior and senior year in high school she was an assistant to her language arts teacher. Outside of school she enjoys drawing, gardening, and spending time with her large family.