Mrs. Davida has devoted more than 27 years to MCHVF, allowing her to experience a deep sense of belonging and connection. Her colleagues feel more like family, supporting each other through challenges and celebrating successes. This family feel extends to her relationships with parents and students, which have been equally as rewarding. Davida says, “Over the years, the school has become much more than just a workplace, but rather a community of people who genuinely care about one another.” Davida is the Educational Director and Head Teacher for 3-6 and Kindergarten.

When Mrs. Barb began her search for the perfect preschool for her first child, she visited 12 early learning centers, and MCHVF was the clear choice. Her children both attended MCHVF, with her younger son meeting his lifelong best friend in the toddler class—they’re now 30 years old. Initially, Barb became a parent volunteer, then served on the Board, and eventually became the Art Teacher in 1997. “MCHVF is a second home to me because of the wonderful educational environment it offers, the outstanding teachers who are my friends, and because I love teaching art to the children,” she says. Barbara is the Art Teacher and After School Teacher.

Mrs. Bita joined MCHVF in 1998 because of the vibrant culture and strong commitment to community engagement. She loves the Montessori philosophy of integrating real world experiences in the classroom. Bita has seen the positive impact this approach has on her students, including both of her children who attended the school. “My favorite memory over the past 25 years was when my daughter had her first day at MCHVF!” says Bita. Bita is an Assistant Teacher for the Primary (3-6) and Pre-K classes.

Teaching at MCHVF over the last 22 years has given Mrs. Leah many lasting relationships, endless opportunities, and the fortunate position to see the children grow and thrive in Valley Forge Park. The natural surroundings offer educational experiences for the children throughout the year. “The Park is the quintessential setting to educate, inspire, and enlighten our smallest stewards of the earth by giving each the unique privilege to observe and connect with the natural beauty that surrounds them,” says Leah. Leah is the Head Teacher for the Pre-Primary class.

Now in her 20th year teaching at MCHVF, Mrs. Ann Marie has hit a big milestone! “I love this school and my job because the staff is incredibly nice and supportive,” she says. Ann Marie especially enjoys watching the children learn new skills in gym class. She raves about how wonderful it is to see their proud faces the first time they skip, catch a ball, dribble a basketball or jump rope. Ann Marie is the Gym Teacher.