Hi! I'm Kelly Bee - owner and lead teacher at Fairy Slipper Montessori.
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I'm originally from Alaska, but have lived in the PNW for years. I received my BA in creative arts here at Evergreen State College, hold American Montessori Society teacher certification, and have a master's degree in Early Childhood Education and Constructivist (Reggio) Theory, from Portland State University.
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I'm really excited about this program! I've been a lead Montessori guide for children ages 2 1/2 through Kindergarten for most of the past 12 years. During that time I also worked as a children's art teacher and taught in a variety of Reggio-modeled programs, including the amazing Opal School preschool, in Portland, OR.
​As an early childhood guide, I believe that young children build their knowledge through exploration, collaboration, and play, and require a nurturing environment that supports expression, independence, and care.
I believe in joyful learning, and the importance of the physical environment and materials. I love to bring art, color, and nature into the classroom. I see teachers as leaders, but my hope is always to act primarily as a support and facilitator for the children. The space belongs to them.​​​​
Testimonials
Thank you so much to Ms. Kelly at the preschool.
She has provided truly 360-degree care for my child, nurturing not only his daily needs but also inspiring his interest in art (which we are still happily working on at home).
We deeply appreciate her patience and dedication to the children—it gives us parents great confidence and peace of mind while we’re at work. Most touching of all, my child often says that Ms. Kelly is his “school mom,” which means more to us than words can express. - Jing L.
I met Kelly in 2022 when I began my Montessori training and later worked as a lead teacher in the classroom neighboring hers.
Kelly is warm, personable, and conscientious. She is able to artfully guide children toward making independent decisions in the classroom, and feeling empowered and proud.
Every one of Kelly's students adores her and thrives in the classroom enviroment she prepares.
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From the beginning of my time working with Kelly, she exemplified what it means to be a mentor, going above and beyond her role as lead teacher by providing support to us going through the training. During observations in her class, her demeanor and preparation were foundational to my understanding and aspirations of what it means to be an excellent Montessori teacher.
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Kelly is one of the most kind, professional, and talented educators I have had the pleasure to work with. I cannot recommend her more highly. - Megan C.
I had the great pleasure and privilege of being one of Kelly’s assistants during my first year in a Montessori classroom. I didn’t realize what a gift I had been given until I started working closely with her. Watching her work, her passion for children and Montessori, and how she cultivates a classroom is truly awe-inspiring. I am a much better teacher for having worked alongside her.
Kelly pours her heart and soul into her classroom and everyone who enters it. She creates beautiful curricula, and seeing the students become so engaged in their work is incredible. If I were in Olympia with a young child, I know exactly where I would sign them up. If you and your child have the opportunity to have Kelly as a teacher, take it! - Lindy B.
