At Ithaca Montessori School, our dedicated team of educators and administrators works together to create a nurturing, respectful, and engaging environment for every child and family. Our team includes experienced administrators, Montessori Lead Guides, and Assistant Guides who share a commitment to the Montessori philosophy and to the individual growth and development of each child.
Administrative Team
Pamela Weatherby
Program Director and Head of School
Pam Weatherby has been a dedicated member of the Ithaca Montessori School community since 1999. She earned her Primary Montessori Certification from the Center for Montessori Teacher Education in New Rochelle, New York, in 2001. With more than a decade of experience teaching at the Primary level and over a decade and a half of experience in educational administration and leadership—including nearly a decade as Head of School at IMS. Pam brings extensive experience, knowledge, and dedication to her role at IMS.
Pam’s educational background is in Human Services, with a specialization in Early Childhood Education, which has shaped her compassionate, child-centered approach to leadership. Throughout her years at IMS, she has remained deeply committed to the Montessori philosophy and to fostering an environment where children, families, and educators can thrive.
Pam is happily married to her husband, Casey, and together they have three children—Morgan, Maelin, and Hayden—all of whom have proudly attended Ithaca Montessori School. Her connection to IMS is both professional and deeply personal, having experienced the school community as an educator, administrator, leader, and parent.
Outside of school, Pam enjoys spending time with family and friends, traveling, camping, exploring the outdoors, and tending to her garden. She values time spent with the people she loves.
Heather Peluso
Education Director
Originally from Cheektowaga, NY, a suburb of Buffalo, she has called Ithaca home for the past 25 years. Heather lives here with her husband, Josh Peluso, two daughters, Sydnie and Reese, and golden retriever, Codder. When she is not in the classroom, she can usually be found cheering on her daughters at their sporting events.
Her journey into early childhood education began after college, following a brief stint in retail. She started as an Assistant Teacher at IC3 at Kendal and has since worked in a variety of settings— including a large childcare center, home daycare, and as both a teacher and Director at a nursery school. In 2020, she completed my Montessori Infant and Toddler Guide training through CGMS, and she holds a CDA certification in Early Childhood. She graduated from SUNY Cortland in 2000 with a BS in History.
Finding the Montessori philosophy and the warm community at Ithaca Montessori School has been the most rewarding chapter in her career—and she is proud to call it her final stop in the field of Early Childhood Education.
Clay Baillo
Finance & HR Manager
Born and raised in Los Angeles, CA Clay has lived in the Ithaca area twice, for a total of 11 years. The first time was from 2007 to 2010 where he worked for both Catharine Valley Winery in Burdett, and Cornell University. He was an apprentice at the winery during harvest, and nights and weekends for the rest of the year. Cornell University was his day job where he worked in the Accounting Department of Cornell Dining. Clay left the area in 2010 and came back in 2017 by chance, and that is when he met his wife and set down permanent roots here. He is happily married to his wife Rachel, with only one more child left at home (out of six total children) attending Ithaca High School, and will be graduating in 2027.
Clay’s educational background is in both Psychology and Photography, which is a testament to his dual nature of walking the line between Science & Art. He has been in the Accounting & Finance field since he was a literal child, with over 30 years of solid experience in the industry.
He was raised to be a Renaissance Man, resulting in the accumulation of many skills and life experiences. He has experience in food (both cooking and eating), music (plays many instruments but guitar, cello, ukulele, and Native flute being the main interests), photography, winemaking, and martial arts. Clay is also an avid reader and is usually listening to one of his favorite podcasts while he works. When not in Ithaca, you can usually find him camping, traveling, or at his cabin in the deep, deep woods.
Amanda Schaufler
Administrative Assistant
Amanda grew up in Van Etten, spending much of her childhood outdoors during the summer in a hammock with a book, helping her parents and grandparents with gardening, or enjoying the night sky. She also dedicated time and heart to the high school volleyball team, leading as captain her senior year. She attended Ithaca College for a few semesters focusing on English and literature. She met her husband in 2010 and moved to Marathon, where they have deep family roots spanning back to a celebrated teacher in the one room schoolhouse. Her two children are currently pursuing their college degrees in very different environments – one in Florida and the other in Buffalo. Her first job was at Buttermilk Falls State Park, leading to a life long appreciation and respect of the natural and unique beauty of the Ithaca area.
Amanda worked at the Johnson Art Museum at Cornell University for 23 years, welcoming over a million visitors during her time as Senior Receptionist. This instilled not only a deep appreciation of art, but an ongoing determination to connect and engage with the Ithaca community. She enjoys weightlifting, crosswords, stargazing, science fiction and the feeling of grass under her feet. Amanda is grateful to work with the wonderful teachers, administrators, parents, and children at Ithaca Montessori School.
Nido | Walnut Room
Heather Talada
Infant Lead Guide, Walnut Room
Heather Talada is the Lead Guide in the Walnut Room at Ithaca Montessori School. Heather joined IMS in December 2024. Heather holds an Associates degree in Educational Studies with a concentration in Early Childhood. Heather recently earned a Montessori-Based Postpartum Doula Certification, which provided valuable practice in empowering children and families from the very beginning. Heather’s experience in early childhood education is wide-ranging and deeply rooted in service. They have volunteered for San Antonio Youth Literacy, tutored third graders, worked at a school-age summer camp, and spent over two years at Tioga Downs Daycare as a lead infant teacher and a manager. These experiences have shaped their belief in nurturing children socially, emotionally, and academically through respectful and supportive relationships with families. Heather now lives in Ithaca with her two cats, Mae-Mae and Clarabelle. Outside of school, they enjoy thrifting, reading, and visiting their young niece and nephews.
Nesiah Lee
Infant Assistant Guide, Walnut Room
Nesiah Lee is an Assistant Guide in the Walnut Room at Ithaca Montessori School. Nesiah joined IMS in July 2024. She began working with children at the age of 14, gaining early experience as an afterschool and summer camp assistant. Nesiah’s interest in Montessori education was sparked during her time at Buffalo Street Books, where she met children attending Montessori schools and learned about the unique philosophy and approach. Inspired by Montessori’s emphasis on independence and hands-on learning, Nesiah is eager to deepen her understanding and grow alongside the IMS community. Her enthusiasm, dedication, and love for working with children make her a wonderful addition to the Walnut Room team.
Leah Hemly
Infant Assistant Guide, Walnut Room & Lead Guide Toddler 4:30 Afterschool
Leah Hemly is an Assistant Guide in the Walnut Room. Leah has been a valued member of the IMS team since June 2022. She brings warmth, enthusiasm, and a genuine love for working with young children. Leah has two years of experience supporting children from infancy through age six in both school and summer camp settings. Outside of the classroom, Leah enjoys spending time with her family, cooking, reading, and attending theater productions. Her creativity, nurturing spirit, and dedication to children’s growth make her a wonderful presence in the Walnut Room.
Toddler | Hickory Room
Anna Olson
Toddler Co-Lead Guide, Hickory Room
Originally from Syracuse, NY, Anna moved to Ithaca in August 2020, where she now lives with her husband and their two cats, Max and Ruby. Anna discovered her passion for early childhood education during a student teaching placement at the Bernice M. Wright Child Development Laboratory School while earning her Bachelor’s Degree in Human Development from Syracuse University. Since then, she has been committed to nurturing young learners through intentional, child-centered teaching. Anna holds both a Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential and an Infant/Toddler Montessori Certification.
Before leading the Hickory Room, Anna spent three years teaching in the Willow Room under the mentorship of Heather Peluso. She brings warmth, creativity, and deep respect for children’s growth and independence to her role. Outside the classroom, Anna enjoys reading, journaling, cooking new recipes, and exploring Ithaca’s natural beauty on walks. A lifelong music lover, she also enjoys singing and playing piano and guitar.
Gina DeAngelo
Toddler Co-Lead Guide, Hickory Room
Gina DeAngelo is a Co-Lead Guide in the Hickory Room at Ithaca Montessori School. She holds a B.A. in Human Development with a minor in Education from Binghamton University and brings over a decade of experience working with children in a variety of educational and caregiving settings. Gina’s passion for Montessori education began while working as a substitute teacher at a Montessori school in Buffalo, NY, where she was drawn to the philosophy’s emphasis on independence, respect, and hands-on learning. She obtained her Infant/Toddler Montessori certification from Crescent Ridge Academy in June 2026, to deepen her practice. Gina lives in Binghamton, NY, with her husband Alex, their child Sonny, and their dog Winston. In her free time, she enjoys reading, spending time outdoors, and being with her family.
Leanne Russo
Toddler Assistant Guide, Hickory Room & Lead Guide Toddler 5:30 Afterschool
Leanne holds a Master’s Degree in Occupational Therapy from Nazareth University, where she developed a deep understanding of child development and a passion for supporting growth at every stage of life.
Leanne brings a warm, thoughtful presence to the classroom and values the Montessori approach for its respect for each child’s individual journey. Her background in occupational therapy enriches her work with toddlers, helping to create an environment where children feel safe, engaged, and empowered. Outside of school, Leanne enjoys spending time in nature, reading, listening to live music, and exploring different crafts and creative projects.
Toddler | Oak Room
Yoko Roy
Toddler Lead Guide, Oak Room
Yoko began her journey at Ithaca Montessori School in 2004! Yoko was born and raised in Tokyo, Japan. There she studied journalism at Bunka Gakuin college and was an editor of a women’s magazine for fifteen years.
Yoko moved to the U.S. in 1999 and started at IMS as an Assistant Teacher in the Primary Program. After one year, she found her passion working with Toddlers and is now a lead teacher in our Toddler Program. She received her certification from the Montessori Infant/Toddler training at the Princeton Center for Montessori Teacher Education in 2008. She lives in Trumansburg with her two daughters, Naomi and Emma.
Emily Diamond
Toddler Teacher-In-Training Guide, Oak Room
Emily is a Montessori Teacher-In-Training and has been part of IMS since August 2023. Emily was born and raised in Interlaken, NY, and is a proud graduate of South Seneca High School. She continues to live in Interlaken with her parents, younger sister, and four beloved cats, commuting daily to Ithaca. Emily earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Fashion Design from Cazenovia College as part of the school’s final graduating class in 2023. Her passion for working with children began in 2015, shortly after high school, when she became an au pair for a family in Dryden. Over eight years, she helped care for their three children, forming a lifelong bond with them. Though the family has since moved to South Carolina, Emily still visits her “second family” whenever possible.
After graduating from college, Emily discovered Ithaca Montessori School and was immediately drawn to its nurturing environment and respectful, child-centered philosophy. Emily earned her Child Development Associate (CDA) credential in March of 2026, and is currently pursuing her Infant/Toddler Montessori certification from the Princeton Center for Teacher Education. In her free time, Emily enjoys singing, reading historical romance novels, listening to true crime podcasts, watching sitcoms, and cuddling with her cherished cat, Max.
America Paulina Maingon Heilbron
Toddler Assistant Guide, Oak Room
America is an Assistant Guide in the Oak Room and joined IMS in March 2026. Originally from Colombia’s Caribbean coast, America moved to Ithaca at the end of July 2025. She loves animals, enjoys exploring nature, and is inspired by the curiosity and sense of humor of young children. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Foreign Languages. Her work with young learners began at the German School Barranquilla, where she worked from Preschool through 2nd grade in immersive language settings, supporting the development of children’s German communication skills and guiding their bilingual literacy process in Spanish and German. During her time in Preschool, she was introduced to principles inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach. She later worked at Raft Trilingual Montessori School in Ithaca, teaching Spanish to children ages 2 to 5, also in an immersive environment, where she supported children’s language development, creativity, and social skills.
Toddler | Willow Room
Faten Houissa
Toddler Co-Lead Guide, Willow Room
Originally from Tunisia, Faten moved to the United States in 2001 and brings a rich cultural and linguistic background to her work—she speaks Arabic, French, and English fluently.
Faten’s passion for early childhood education began in her own childhood, growing up in a large family where she naturally gravitated toward caring for younger children. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Management, a certificate in writing professional emails and memos, and earned her Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential in 2023. She also completed Montessori Beginnings training for infants and toddlers and earned her Montessori certification through the Princeton Center for Teacher Education.
Before entering the early childhood field, Faten spent over a decade teaching Arabic and French at Ithaca College and also taught Arabic at Cornell University. She now brings that same dedication and care to her work with young children, fostering their growth through curiosity, respect, and connection. Faten lives in Ithaca with her husband and is the proud mother of two daughters—Deena, a graduate student, and Angie, an undergraduate student. In her free time, she enjoys reading, listening to audio series, and cooking.
Robert Ackles
Toddler Co-Lead Guide, Willow Room & Kindergarten Art Lead Guide
Rob started at IMS as an assistant and attended PCTE in 2015 where he received his infant and toddler certification. Rob attended the Rochester Institute of Technology where he double majored in graphic design and painting and was also a student athlete on the track team.Rob is an avid reader, coin collector and amateur paleontologist. Rob loves learning new languages, learning about different cultures and is fascinated with pre-meiji Japan, the age of the Samurai. Rob lives on a working farm, surrounded by woods which provides a lovely atmosphere.
Caroline Silva
Toddler Assistant/Substitute Guide
Caroline Silva has been part of the IMS community since October 2021. She brings both compassion and structure to her role, drawing from a strong foundation in early childhood development and a background in supporting youth through challenging life circumstances.
Caroline holds an Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice and has previous experience working with at-risk youth at The William George Agency for Children’s Services. Her combined expertise in child development and youth advocacy enriches her work in the Montessori environment, where she is dedicated to fostering a safe, respectful, and nurturing space for all children to grow.
Primary | Elm Room
Tara Conklin
Primary Lead Guide, Elm Room
Tara holds a Bachelor of Science in Community Health from Lock Haven University and is certified in Early Childhood Montessori education. Since joining IMS in September of 2019, Tara has brought warmth, dedication, and a deep respect for the Montessori philosophy to her work with young children.
Originally from Pennsylvania, Tara is one of nine siblings and treasures her close-knit family. She now lives in Ithaca with her husband and children, whom she absolutely adores. A true nature and animal lover, Tara finds joy in the simple things and loves spending quality time with her family above all else.
Tara was drawn to early childhood education by the Montessori approach, which honors the individuality of each child and emphasizes hands-on, respectful learning. Her nurturing presence and commitment to creating a peaceful, supportive environment help children thrive both socially and academically.
Morgan Clayman
Assistant Guide (Elm); Lead Guide (Before School Program)
A lifelong learner with deep roots in the Ithaca area, Morgan is passionate about fostering curiosity and joy in early childhood education. After growing up locally and attending Cornell University, she rediscovered her love of working with children through her role at the childcare center at the Tompkins County YMCA.
Morgan recently completed her Child Development Associate (CDA) credential in June 2023 and is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Biology. Her previous roles include working as a barista, library clerk, and supporting youth literacy through her local public library—experiences that continue to inform her nurturing, community-oriented approach in the classroom.
Morgan is continually inspired by the growth and humor of the children she works with, finding joy in watching their personalities develop and sharing in their daily discoveries.
Outside of school, Morgan enjoys reading, gardening, cooking for her loved ones, and taking pottery classes. You can often find her knitting or journaling in one of Ithaca’s many beautiful parks.
Brooke Willer
Primary Assistant Guide, Elm Room & Lead Guide Primary 5:30 Afterschool
Brooke holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Education from Ithaca College, where she cultivated her passion for understanding how children grow, learn, and thrive.
Originally from Buffalo, NY, Brooke brings over five years of experience working with children of all ages through her role at a youth sailing summer camp, where she developed a love for mentoring young people in dynamic, hands-on environments.
Brooke is drawn to Montessori education for its focus on independence, respect, and whole-child development. She brings calm, creativity, and enthusiasm to every interaction, whether she’s supporting children in the classroom or guiding them in afterschool exploration. In her free time, Brooke enjoys being on the water—sailing or swimming—along with reading, making art, and listening to music.
Primary | Pine Room
Shahista Anwar
Primary Lead Guide, Pine Room
Shahista brings over seven years of experience working with children ages 4 to 15 and is passionate about supporting each child’s growth with patience, creativity, and care.
Shahista holds an Early Childhood Montessori Certification from the West Side Montessori School Teacher Education Program, as well as a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. She has completed two years of college and is actively working toward her degree in Early Childhood Education to further deepen her knowledge and practice.
Outside of the classroom, Shahista enjoys cooking, walking, and hiking—activities that reflect her calm and grounded approach to teaching.
Sabrena Allen
Primary Assistant Guide, Pine Room & Lead Guide Primary 4:30 Afterschool
Sabrena Allen is an Assistant Guide in the Pine Room at Ithaca Montessori School and has been a valued member of the IMS community since November 2021. She brings warmth, patience, and a nurturing spirit to her work with young children. Sabrena is a devoted mother to her daughter, Savannah, and treasures spending quality time with her family.
Outside of the classroom, she enjoys baking, hiking, and traveling—activities that reflect her love of exploration and creativity. Her calm presence and dedication make her a cherished part of the Pine Room team.
Cheyenne Andrews
Substitute/Assistant Guide, Pine Room
Cheyenne Andrews is a Substitute Assistant Guide at Ithaca Montessori School and joined IMS in March 2025. She brings with her a rich and varied background in education and human services. With several years of experience, she has worked with diverse populations—from adolescents in high-needs environments to young children in Early Head Start programs—always guided by a deep passion for supporting others. Her professional journey has included roles as an educator, counselor, and briefly as a peace officer in corrections, each one reinforcing her commitment to helping individuals and communities thrive. Cheyenne’s true passion lies in early childhood education, particularly in nurturing children from birth to age six during the most formative years of their development. She is thrilled to be part of the IMS community and looks forward to fostering growth, joy, and discovery in the classroom—while continuing to learn and grow alongside the children she serves.
Primary | Maple Room
Suzanna Homrighaus
Primary Assistant Guide, Maple Room
Suzanna Homrighaus is an Assistant Guide in the Maple Room at Ithaca Montessori School and has been part of the IMS team since August 2022. With over a decade of experience in early childhood education, Suzanna brings a nurturing, steady presence to the classroom and is deeply committed to supporting young children during their most formative years.
She earned her Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education in 2017 and has worked in a variety of early learning environments. A proud mom to a set of twins, Suzanna understands the importance of building strong, supportive relationships with both children and families.
Outside of school, she enjoys hiking, spending time with her family, and expressing her creativity through scrapbooking.
Cloey McDonald
Primary Assistant Guide, Maple Room
Cloey McDonald is an Assistant Guide in the Maple Room. Cloey has been part of the IMS team since November 2025. Cloey is currently pursuing a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. Cloey has been working with young children since she was 12 years old. She first discovered her love for childcare through babysitting for family and friends, her passion for helping children learn and grow continued through years of volunteering in summer programs, community events, and working within the church. As one of six kids, Cloey understands the importance of patience, understanding, and connection. She carries these qualities each day within her work and has a focus on fostering a supportive connection with the children. Throughout her time in childcare, she continues to build her passion for understanding and caring for children.
Outside of work, she enjoys design and creating illustrations, a passion she has carried for nearly her entire life. Furthermore she enjoys nature, learning to cook new meals, and spending time with her two cats Maple and Rusty.
Substitute Guides
Wes Welsh
Substitute Guide
Wes is a Substitute Guide for all programs at IMS. Wes has been part of IMS since September of 2024. Wes is a senior at Ithaca College studying psychology with hopes of eventually going to graduate school for social work. They thoroughly enjoy making music and plays the guitar and drums, and is currently learning the bass as well! When they aren’t busy with school, Wes typically spends their time with their friends in nature or out on the town, or cozy inside recharging. Wes has worked at IMS for 2 years now and is very grateful for the community they’ve become a part of during that time.