Ms. Karen
I'm Karen, I was born here in Phoenix, AZ a while ago... I went to Squaw Peak Elementary, Creighton Middle School, Camelback and Arcadia High School, UofA and Portland State. I did my Montessori training at MINW in Oregon. I taught at Child peace Montessori in Portland, OR for a year before moving to Switzerland, where I taught at two different Montessori Schools over a period of 6 years. I then returned to Phoenix and have been with Villa Montessori since 2005. My first daughter attended Villa from toddlers through 8th grade and my second daughter started in the primary and is now in the 7th grade. I am thrilled to be started my 27th year of teaching, with 20 of those years right here at villa. At home, I live with my significant other, and two of our four wonderful children.
 
My birthday is on March 27th, and my favorite color is Orange. When I am not in the classroom, you can find me enjoying the outdoors- I love to hike, paddleboard, and camp. You might catch me at some of my favorite local spots like Gallo Blanco, Postino's, LGO, Rusconi's American Kitchen or The Parlor. 
 
And a little tip for special occasions: after so many years, my collection of teacher mugs, bath bombs, water bottles and plaques are overflowing! I'm currently focused on a clean low-glycemic diet, so if you're thinking of a treat, dark chocolate is always a welcome exception.
 
I'll be living in Ahwatukee for the next two years before returning to our home in Arcadia. I'm really looking forward to a great year with all of you.