“Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.”
Proverbs 22:6

our staff makes our school come alive.

Introducing Diann Miller, a dedicated and passionate individual with a deep faith in Jesus, an appreciation for a good cup of coffee, and a sharp sense of humor. Though she doesn't hold a formal degree, Diann’s love for the Montessori method and its life lessons shines through in her work. She believes deeply in the value of fostering independence and curiosity in children, and she embraces the Montessori approach both in the classroom and in her daily life.

An avid reader with a passion for mystery novels, Diann balances her love of books with a natural talent for organization, thriving in environments that require focus and order.

More than her interests, Diann is known for her warmth, humor, and genuine kindness. Her sharp wit brings laughter to those around her, but it’s her compassion and generosity that truly define her. Always willing to help, Diann approaches life with grace and a sincere desire to make a positive impact on others.

Expect to find a thoughtful, kind, and lively spirit in Diann, someone who combines a light-hearted sense of humor with an unwavering commitment to the Montessori principles and the people she serves.

Jessi Shuff brings a wealth of experience from her early career in corporate America and her most recent role as a top-level secretary in Middlebury schools. After an accomplished tenure in the educational sector, Jessi chose to "retire" but felt called to continue using her talents to serve others. She now enjoys working in a more flexible environment, where she can share her skills while maintaining a balanced lifestyle—an approach that aligns perfectly with the Montessori method’s emphasis on harmony, balance, and fostering both personal and professional growth. Jessi’s dedication and passion for helping others shine through in all that she does.

Maria Carlson is the Elementary Guide.

Maria earned a BA in English from Kalamazoo College, where she participated in a study abroad in Munster, Germany.

She took graduate coursework at Hamline University (St. Paul, MN) for Teaching English as a Second Language and Indiana University South Bend for Special Education. She has taught adult education English as a Second Language classes as well as community education courses. Maria has taught special education for the Elkhart and South Bend community schools and worked for Penn Harris Madison schools.

Maria came to Montessori when she enrolled her child in a Montessori school, later deciding to teach. She is interested in how we learn most effectively through our lifetime, metacognition and growth mindset, specifically how these are applied to math education, as well as exceptional and differentiated education.

She has received an elementary Montessori certification from the Center for Guided Montessori Studies.

Howdy! My name is Brookelyn Tidd, and I am a primary lead teacher here at CCM! I am 23 years old and have an associate's degree in general studies from Southwestern Michigan College as well as my Montessori early childhood education diploma from NAMC. I am a lover of all things green, plants, Hello Kitty, and creepy crawlies! Outside of school, I enjoy all forms of arts and crafts, doing my nails, and skateboarding.

I have worked at CCM since April 2021, and I have absolutely adored my job here. This school is a very special place filled to the brim with love, acceptance, and genuine care for each person who enters. I grew up the "weird" kid who blossomed into the "weird" adult, so I strive to show my students that there is beauty in being authentically yourself by being authentically myself! My goals as a teacher absolutely include guiding students along their educational path and being a resource for them as they learn about and experience the world around them, but above all else, I want my students to enter my class each day knowing that they are loved beyond measure and also knowing how to love others well. My passion is deeply rooted in education and kindness, and I am so grateful to work in a place that facilitates both!

Hi. My name is Hannah Wright (formally Creekmore), and I recently married the love of my life on June 1st, 2024. I have been working at Cornerstone for almost five years and have always had a passion for working with children. I am currently a lead primary teacher.

Throughout my time at Cornerstone, I've had the opportunity to experience every classroom, but Primary has always been my favorite age group to work with! The children are always so loving and provide us with plenty of laughs. Some day I hope to pursue a degree in children’s counseling and I recently received my certification as a Montessori teacher for ages 3 to 6 which follows my certification from infants to 3yrs I obtained earlier in my career.

I truly love my job and am passionate about seeing little minds develop into big personalities. The Primary age group never ceases to impress me with how much they are capable of achieving, often beyond our expectations. I love helping them discover their confidence and abilities.

On a personal note, my favorite home away from home is the beach in Florida. It’s a place where I find peace and relaxation, much like the supportive environment we strive to create here at Cornerstone.

Brittney Herron

primary 3
director of curriculum

Hi! My name is Brittney Herron, and I am a wife, mother, daughter, sister, teacher, friend, pop culture junkie, and Notre Dame football fanatic. I have been blessed with two beautiful daughters- Rylee, 15, and Piper, 6- and a ridiculously naughty puppy named Clover. Outside of CCM, I enjoy spending time with my family, trying new recipes, playing board games, trivia nights, attending sporting events, and filling up my online shopping carts.

This is my twelfth school year as a Lead Teacher, and my second as the Director of Curriculum. I took on the additional role as a way to share my love of the Montessori method not only with my students, but also with all of my colleagues. I have training in infant through kindergarten and while I have enjoyed my time spent with each of these ages, the 3-6 age group (aka Primary) is by far my favorite. I find the relationship to be mutually beneficial and rewarding. While I am teaching them about letter sounds, continents, and the parts of a pumpkin- they are teaching me about forgiveness, unconditional love, and the importance of slowing down and opening my eyes to all the beauties and wonders of the world God gave us. It is through the children of Cornerstone that I have learned what it truly means to “become like a little child” (Matthew 18:3).

Hi, my name is Hollie Legac, and I’ve been a part of the school for 2.5 years, starting as a Montessori toddler assistant and recently stepping into the role of lead teacher in the toddler classroom. I’m married to Jacob, and we have a baby girl, Reese, who keeps us on our toes! I love bringing a sense of humor and a passion for all things silly into the classroom, creating a joyful and engaging environment for the kids. My heart is in Montessori education, and I’m committed to helping young children grow and thrive each day.

Hi! My name is Aliyah and I‘m one of the lead toddler teachers. I have been working at CCM for almost 8 years. I am interested in cooking and traveling. Prior to being a lead toddler teacher, I worked with Infants and Tots! My favorite part about this job is creating bonds with all the kiddos and watching them grow in to their own little person and seeing their faces brighten up when they achieve something.

In 2023 I had a beautiful baby girl! Xalea is my pride and joy and I feel so blessed to be her mom and work near her every single day.

Hi! I’m Holly DeRoos, and I’ve had the privilege of serving in many programs throughout the CCM for over 4 years. Currently, I’m a co-lead in the infant room, where I get to apply my formal degree in early childhood education. Before coming here, I spent many years as a teacher in the public school system. I bring a strong work ethic and dedication to everything I do. Outside of work, I love puzzles, crafts, traveling, and discovering new places to eat!