Primary Guide

My name is Joanna Tovar. I am the primary guide in the Blu Classroom at Montessori Country Day.

I was born and raised in Galveston, Texas. I have lived in Woodland, California for the past 23 years. My son was starting first grade when we moved to CA. My husband attended Montessori from age 4-6 years old. We knew when it was time for our oldest child to start school that we wanted him to have a Montessori education.

We were happy he attended a primary Montessori school in Texas. When we moved to California we toured the Woodland Montessori campus for first grade. We feel in love with the classroom. Our son thrived in his environment there. I knew at that time I wanted to learn all I could about the Montessori education. I applied for a primary assistant position at the Woodland campus. I was thrilled to be hired by the Head of School. I had the privilege to work under a fabulous guide. As I was assisting , I applied to The Montessori Institute of Advanced Studies where I completed the Montessori Early Childhood Teacher Credentialing Program.

I have just started my 15th year of teaching with Montessori Country Day. I love that Montessori is very hands on and the environments are prepared for the children to develop independence.

I would have to say the three things I can’t live without are my family, work, and positive attitude. Anytime I can go back home to Galveston to visit my family is a favorite trip. I have been very fortunate to see my father three times this year. My dream vacation would be to visit Italy and Rome. My favorite treat is anytime I can go out and create memories with my family. Fishing is my family’s hobby, so getting out to do that is a great day.

One rule I live by is to see the positive in every situation. My favorite quote is from Maya Angelou “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”