a learning community built around children

Jessica Griseta

Jessica earned her BA in English Studies from Northern Illinois University, thoroughly enjoying Literature Study courses and Anthropology. But after her first experience in a Montessori environment at Pathway, Jessica was inspired, and her philosophy of education was affirmed. She is now pursuing Full Montessori Early Childhood Teacher Certification and will be fulfilling her student teaching component this fall.   

Few things bring Jessica greater joy than serving curious and absorbent young minds.  From the moment she arrived at Pathway, she knew she was in a place that held this same value. Jessica is eager to continue to learn under Courtney’s mentorship; “She is a fountain of Montessori wisdom and experience”. Jessica feels privileged to continue to work with the children and families of Pathway. She believes that daily opportunities to support children’s learning, navigate social relationships, and observe the brilliance of each unique student are deeply meaningful to teachers and children alike.







Courtney Blakemore

​Courtney's first experience in Montessori was as a child when she attended a children's house of 3-6 year olds.  
After attaining her BA in English and Social Sciences from Stephens College, she returned to the Montessori classroom in 1996 as an assistant teacher.  Courtney describes her return to the Montessori preschool environment as "coming home". From that point on, Courtney was hooked.  She earned her Montessori primary teaching certificate in 1998 and has set about making Montessori her life's work. After more than 15 years working with children, training student teachers, and instructing at accredited training centers, her commitment to creating an environment that nurtures the whole child is evident in all aspects of Pathway. From the meticulously designed environment to her work with staff and families, Courtney leaves no stone left unturned in creating a nurturing, joyful place for children to grow.  

​The Pathway Staff