STAFF | Faith

I'm Jodie, the founder of Faith Montessori. My commitment to fostering a love for learning, promoting independence, and instilling a sense of wonder in every child shapes the foundation of our schools. I am thrilled to welcome you to our vibrant learning community and look forward to embarking on this enriching journey together.

I am certified in Montessori education and have a degree in Marketing and Education from Ball State University. My family consists of 4 boys and a girl. My husband and I have been happily married for over 30 years and have lived in Noblesville since 1999.

FOUNDER OF FAITH MONTESSORI

Jodie Bolinger

HELLO!

MEET THE TEAM

Toddler Program

We will be offering a 2/3’s class that will also follow the Montessori methods. This will better prepare your child for preschool as well as provide a safe and loving learning environment for your child.

The 2/3 year olds will interact and explore in the young skills room where play is encouraged. Development of fine motor skills are constant through the senses and learning materials and the seeds of a Montessori education is planted. Designed for age 2 and 3, here is where practical life, sensorial, and the foundations for math and language are established. In practical life, the three main areas will be: Care of self, Grace and Courtesy, and Care of the environment. Practical Life methods are strong at any age in Montessori and are the single most important area for the 2/3 year olds.

Attention spans of a 2 and 3 year olds are very limited, so the prepared classroom environment provides a wide variety of materials. Our classroom will enable the child to be very active. Rest and inactivity are foreign to the toddler's nature; something that every parent of a toddler knows first hand. The prepared 2/3's environment is a place where the very young child is able to act upon his natural energies and curiosity. We all know a 2 and 3 year-olds are in constant motion and objects just seem to leap up into their hands. The 2/3's are encouraged to touch and handle and explore everything in their surroundings.

We also encourage independence and we all know that a 2 and 3 year old wants to do things for themselves. Unfortunately, in today's hurry-up pace, there is not always time or patience to allow the small child to complete the job at hand all by themselves. The 2/3's prepared classroom environment and program are designed to be convenient for the child. The prepared 2/3's environment is his/her place, a place to feel at ease and at home. It is our aim, as the aware adult, to remove the obstacles that frustrate the child by providing furnishings to their size and having materials at arm's reach and at eye level.

Mrs. Meckstroth /Director of Union St.

Hi Faith Families 😀 I’m Mrs. M (Meckstroth). This is my 3rd year at Faith Montessori. Originally from West Virginia 💙💛 Let’s Go Mountaineers!! My husband Aaron and I moved to Indiana almost 8 years ago and we have absolutely loved growing our family here. We have three kids.., Aria, who will be going in to the 1st grade, Maverick, who will be starting Kindergarten at Faith with the wonderful Mrs. Selky, and Ford, who will be returning to the 2’s and 3’s class with sweet Mrs. Kris.

Mrs. Selky | Kindergarten Teacher

Mrs. Selky has been with Faith Montessori for 6 years. She has a degree in Elementary Education. Mrs. Selky has 2 children and a wonderful husband. She is an amazing teacher and has such a love for the Lord. She loves spending time with familiy.

Mrs. McGraw | Language and Math Teacher

Mrs. McGraw has taught at Faith for over 10 years. She grew up in Columbus, Indiana and earned her teaching degree from Ball State University. She is married to her college sweetheart, Mike, and taught for 8 years in Warren Township. She has 2 children of her own and loves spending time with the children of Faith Montessori.

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Mrs. Smith | Language and Math Teacher

Mrs. Smith has taught preschool for 15 years and worked for Faith Montessori for over 10 years. She has a degree in Early Childhood, and is trained in Montessori teaching for children ages 3-6. Her and her husband have lived in Noblesville for the past 16 years with there two sons, Jacob and Andrew. When not teaching you will find her and her family working on wood working projects. She has a love for home decor which lead her to start her own business this year, FamilyDesign LLC. Mrs. Smith loves spending time with her family, traveling, shopping, and hanging out with there life group friends from church. Her and her family are actively involved with there boy's life groups and members of Northview Church.

Mrs. Merritt | Language and Math Teacher

Hello! My name is Morgan Merritt. I have taught at the elementary level for 10 years. I spent most of that time teaching 1st grade and Kindergarten in Washington Township. I am a graduate of Indiana State with a degree in Textile and Apparel Merchandising. I received my teaching degree from Indiana Wesleyan. I live in Westfield with my husband, Bradley and two boys, Arlo and Auggie. In my spare time I enjoy traveling, cooking and trying out new restaurants. I am so excited to be a part of the staff at Faith Montessori.

Mrs. Hughes | Bible and Practical Life Teacher

Hi! My name is Heather Hughes. I also answer to Mrs. Hughes and mom. I have been involved in teaching kiddos for years but have been in family ministry since 2014. My background is in Speech Language Pathology but since becoming a mom, have worked on staff in kids ministry at Grace Church and then as a children's and families pastor at St. Lukes in London, England. I am a mom of 3 and have been married to my amazing husband since 2006. We love to travel and experience new cultures. We also love sports and cheering for our kids. I am very passionate about children feeling seen, known and loved no matter their age and I am excited to share my deep love for Jesus with them in hopes that they will experience His deep love for them in return.

Mrs. Rodecker | Science Teacher

Hello, my name is Ashley Rodecker. I am so excited to step back into the classroom after homeschooling my own children. I have been in the classroom since my high school days: teaching, tutoring and assisting in special education. I graduated from Earlham College with a degree in Psychology. Then, I went on and joined the US Navy. My husband and I finished our time with the Navy and moved back to the Midwest where we finally landed in Fishers. I earned my elementary education license from Taylor University. I have been married to my wonderful husband, Michael, for over 15years. We have a set of teenage twins, Rachel and Ethan. I look forward to nurturing the next generation while deepening my connection with the Lord.

Mrs. King | 2 and 3 Class Teacher

Mrs. King has a passion for working with children and spending time with her family. This is Mrs. King's 4th year at Faith Montessori. She has been married to her husband for 21 years and they have 2 children. She enjoys traveling, hiking, and other outdoor activities. She previously worked at Westfield schools in the special education department. She went to IUPUI and is a licensed MA. Mrs. King grew up in Indianapolis and has lived in Noblesville for the past 20 years.

Mrs. Gasper | 2 and 3 Class Assistant

My name is Theresa, and I’m delighted to be working with your children. This will be my first year at Faith as an Assistant with the 2/3s. I especially enjoy this particular age group—it’s truly my favorite.

Before coming to work at Faith I worked as a staff associate at an elementary school, where I supported students both academically and socially. I’ve been married for 33 years and have two wonderful sons. Our oldest is an architect living in New York City, and our youngest is currently in college.

Mrs. Smith | 2 and 3 Class Teacher

I’m Daniela Smith. This is my 2nd year at Faith Montessori. My own kids started at Faith a few years ago, and I was so happy to join the teachers in 2023. I assist in the 2s-3s at Union Street. I love working with the little ones - that age is never boring; they are spunky, sweet, lovey, and learning so much! I live in Westfield with my husband, three daughters, and two cats. I love to sing, be outside, and hang out with my family!

Mrs.Paunwar | 2 and 3 Class Assistant

My name is Tara Paunwar. I will be the teaching assistant in Miss Daniela’s 2/3 class this year. This is my first year at Faith, but I was a teacher for 15 years in grades K, 1, and 2. My husband and I moved to Westfield to be closer to family about 10 years ago. We have 2 kiddos, one of whom will be attending Faith this year.

I have a Bachelors in Early Childhood Education and I’m so excited to get back into the classroom with little ones!

Mrs. McKeon | Substitute

Hi, I’m Mandy! I’ve always had a heart for children, and I feel incredibly grateful to play a role in their early growth and learning. I was in the medical field for over 17 years and my speciality was working in the heart unit. My husband and I have a big, blended family with six amazing kids, and our home is full of love—and golden retrievers! I’ve raised Goldens for years and have five dogs that keep life fun and busy. I grew up in Cicero and still live there today. When I’m not at school, you’ll usually find me outside, spending time with family and friends, or just soaking up the little moments that make life special.

Mrs. Megan Alvarez / Director of Lifepointe

Megan has been with Faith Montessori since 2022. She graduated from Indiana University with a B.S. in Early Childhood Education. She holds a teaching license in Early Childhood and Elementary Primary as well as a Science of Reading credential. She has 15 years of experience teaching preschool, pre-k, kindergarten, 3rd grade and ESL. She lives in Westfield with her husband and her 3 kids. She loves to spend time outside, especially going to outdoor concerts as a family in the summertime. Megan loves Faith Montessori and is passionate that children learn best through play and exploration.

Mrs. Aimee Cipro | Language and Math Teacher

This is Mrs. Cipro's third year with Faith Montessori. Mrs. Cipro has a strong background working with children. She has taught bible school for young children for many years and tutored children after school in California. Mrs. Cipro has completed child development classes. Additionally, at California Baptist University, she worked for the education department. She also has 4 children. Her 2 sons have attended Faith Montessori. Most recently, she has been a cherished substitute teacher for us. She has such a kind and caring soul. Our students adore her. We are so blessed to have her as our Language and Math teacher.

Mrs. Walker | Bible and Practical Life Teacher

Hello. I'm Kristine Walker and have been with Faith Montessori since 2021. I'm honored and blessed to be your child's Bible and Practical Life teacher. The mission of teaching young minds the foundational Word of God has been the highlight of my life. It brings much joy to my heart. My experience since 2005 in the educational setting as teacher, Instructional Assistant and other various roles which includes K-5 have been very rewarding to say the least. My husband and I have 4 grown children and several grandchildren living in southern IN, KY and TN. We relocated from Louisville, KY to Noblesville in 2017. We simply love it here! Our life focus is growing in our faith with God and loving our family and people well.

Mrs. Cindy Mallon | Science Teacher

This is my fourth year with Faith Montessori. I graduated from Northeastern Illinois University. I have a B.A. in Communications with a minor in Psychology. I have also worked as an instructional assistant at Lifepointe, Union, and Carey Ridge Elementary school. I am originally from Chicago, and moved to Westfield 5 years ago with my family. I am loving it here and am very proud to call it my home. I absolutely love working with preschool age children, My goal is to create a classroom where creative minds will shine - preparing your children for kindergarten and beyond. When I am not in the classroom, I enjoy spending time with family, friends, and nature.

Mrs. Kari Ownbey | 2 and 3 Class Teacher

Ms. Kari started working at Faith Montessori in the Fall of 2021 as the lead 2/3’s teacher at the Lifepointe location. Before joining Faith, she taught 1's, 2's, and preschool age at a local daycare in Westfield. She also taught 3's, Pre-K, Kindergarten, and 2nd grade in Nashville, TN. With several years working at an alternative high school, she has over fourteen years experience in education. She has been married to her husband, known to the students as "Mr. Nate", since 2012 and they have two daughters, Elzette and Andli who attend Sheridan Elementary. She enjoys hiking, traveling, and being in warm weather at the beach! It is a joy for her to see students learn and grow throughout each year!

Mrs. Ashley Lowrie | 2 and 3 Class Teacher

Hello! My name is Ms. Ashley. This is my second year teaching at Faith Montessori and my fourth as a Faith mama. My youngest, Bode, is in his final :( year at Faith, and my two older children, Dylan and Wells, are proud Faith graduates. As for me, I’m a proud graduate of Indiana University where I received my degree in Elementary Education. After graduating, life took me on a different teaching journey when I discovered and developed a passion for Reformer Pilates. I spent 10 years as owner and lead instructor of two Reformer Pilates studios in Carmel and Geist where I taught clients of all ages and mentored student instructors. After becoming a mom, I sold my studios to focus on my family, but still teach Pilates from my home studio. Last year, I rediscovered my love for early childhood education while subbing at my daughter’s school and at Faith. I’m so grateful to now be assisting in the 2/3’s class at Faith Lifepointe and am looking forward to a wonderful year with these precious kiddos and wonderful teachers!

Mrs. Keli Etchison | Substitute Teacher

Hello, I am Ms. Keli Etchison. I have been with Faith Montessori for 5 years. After graduating from Ball State University I taught pre-K for four years before taking on the role of case manager for the Dept of Child Services for three years. After that I taught language and math at Faith for one year and substituted for two. This will be my 4th year with Faith Montessori. I took a five year break between DCS and Faith to raise my twin daughters, Annie and Penny. I enjoy doing ceramics, thrifting for vintage treasures, and spending time with my family.

Mrs. Michele Fairchok / Substitute Teacher

Ms. Michele is one of our wonder substitute teachers. Ms. Michele has many years of experience with children. Most recently, she was a director at a local daycare center.

Mrs. Lauren VanDyke / Substitute Teacher

Born and raised Hoosier! I graduated from Indiana State University with a BA in Interior Design in 2006 and married my college sweetheart. We moved to Westfield in 2008 and I spent all of my design career in Kitchen and Bath.

In 2018 after the birth of my third child we began attending Lifepointe church. Yes-it took us this long to find a church to call home!! Throughout the years God has moved me in many directions. In 2024 I "retired" from design to take on a new role of seeking the next lead Pastor for Lifepointe. As I look back now I can see that this role was only a stepping stone to a new mission the Lord had for me. Last fall I begrudgingly (sometimes I need a push) along with my husband took on the role of Children's Ministry leaders. I did not know at the time how much these kids would fill my cup, but God did! Not only do I absolutely LOVE CREATING spaces where kids can imagine, explore, learn and grow but I also LOVE hearing what their little hearts have locked inside!

My 8 and 7 year old were the first kiddos to attend Faith Montessori Preschool at LPC. Last year when my daughter moved up to Kindergarten I began substitute teaching at Faith Montessori. It is truly a blessing to be able to witness, even one day, in the lives of these little minds! In their growth, I am growing and it is such a beautiful thing. Growing in love, patience, gentleness and all the other Fruits the Spirit has for us. I cannot wait to see what this year brings!

Mrs. Scott | 2 and 3 Teacher

Whitney is a 2/3’s teacher at Faith Open Door. This is her third year at Faith Montessori. She has been married for 28 years to her husband Dave. They have raised two fantastic kids - Jack, who is married to Emily, and Leanne. Whitney and Dave enjoy antiquing, mini vacations to new places, and spending time with family.

Mrs. Cooper | 2 and 3 Teacher

Hi! My name is Britney Cooper, aka Miss Cooper. This is my second year at Faith Montessori. I have been blessed to have many years of experience teaching preschool! I have taught infants (0-1 yr), toddlers (1 yr-2 yr), and Pre-K. I am originally from Evansville, IN, and moved to Hamilton County 12 years ago. In between, I also lived in Spokane, WA for 6 months with her better half, Josh, while he was stationed there in the Air Force. Josh and I have been together for almost 10 years and have welcomed two amazing children into the world. In 2017, we welcomed Hadleigh, who is in 1st grade, then in 2021, we welcomed Joshua Jr (JJ), who is in class at Faith. I absolutely love teaching little people and helping them learn and grow!

Mrs. Kemmer | Language and Math Teacher

HI! My name is Alicia Kemmer and I am thrilled to join the teaching team here at Faith Montessori! I studied early childhood education and child psychology at IUPUI before continuing my education at the University of North Florida, studying Sociology and Spanish. I will be teaching Language and Math in the 3s/4s classroom and I am so excited! It is such a special age and I cannot wait to help them grow! I live in Noblesville with my two daughters and our two dogs and cats. All of my free
time is spent with my beautiful girls. My oldest daughter attended Faith for preschool almost six years ago and my youngest is joining the 2s class this year. When we’re not at school or extracurriculars, you can find us exploring one of the local farmer’s markets, at the zoo, or baking at home.

Mrs. Comer | Language and Math Teacher

Hello Faith Families, My name is Tristan Comer, and I'm thrilled to be rejoining the Faith Family this year after a period away from the classroom. My time at Ball State University, where I earned a Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education with a minor in Educational Psychology, has equipped me with the skills and knowledge that I'm eager to share with your children.

Life outside of the classroom is quite lively! My husband and I share our home in Frankton with three children and an array of pets – five dogs, six rabbits, two leopard geckos, and a turtle. Juggling the needs of a busy family is part of my daily routine; my two daughters participate in virtual schooling, while my son attends a traditional school. My oldest daughter, Eden, is a dedicated gymnastics coach. Adelyn, my youngest daughter excels in competitive gymnastics. Finally, my son, Levi, keeps busy with band and baseball. You'll likely see Eden and Adelyn around Faith from time to time this year.

When I’m not immersed in family life or supporting my children's activities, I find rejuvenation in the outdoors through hiking, kayaking, and off-roading. Travel is also a passion. I'm truly excited about returning to the classroom and contributing to the Faith Family.

Mrs. Nail | Sciencce Teacher

Mrs. Nail is married and has 4 children and 2 fabulous grandchildren. She has over 20 years of experience teaching preshool and assisting in kindergarten classrooms. This is Mrs. Nail's ninth year at Faith Montessori. She loves children and knows it is a blessing from God to have the opportunity to work with them each day. In her free tiem she enjoys gardening, cooking, crocheting, and spending time with her family.

Mrs. Orr | Bible Teacher

Mrs. Orr is the Bible teacher at the Open Door location. She has been teaching at Faith Montessori since it opened in 2010. She has an elementary education degree from IUPUI and loves teaching children about Jesus. Mrs. Orr has been married for 31 years and has raised two wonderful children, Kaley & Jake. She and her husband enjoy playing tennis, going to church, and hanging out at Morse Reservoir.

Mrs. Steininger | Kindergarten Teacher

Mrs. Steininger has been with Faith Montessori for over 10 years. When she's not teaching, she is busy with her five boys and grandson. Mrs. Steininger enjoys biking, hiking and attending sporting events with her boys. Her family is very active in their church and cherishes the "family" they have there.

Mrs. Gammon | 1st Grade Teacher

Amy has spent the last 5 years as the children’s director and office administrator for Open Door Church where her husband, Jeff, has been the lead pastor for the past 15 years. Before “officially” coming on staff at Open Door three years ago, Amy taught 1st grade at Legacy Christian School for 9 years. She received her elementary ed degree from Greenville University in 1990, and except for taking a few years off while her kids were young, has taught elementary students in both public and private schools ever since. They have a daughter, Bethany who is married to Mason, and a son, Matthew. They live in a pet-friendly home and have a dog, Pebbles, and cat, John. Amy also gives piano lessons to 13 students .

Mrs. Bolinger | 2nd Grade Teacher

Mrs. Sydney Bolinger is the 1st/2nd grade teacher at the Noblesville location. She has worked at Faith Montessori for 7 years. She has a bachelors degree in Elementary Education from Western Governors University. She and her husband Zeke Bolinger of the Anderson Police Department reside in Noblesville with their golden retriever Maverick! She is a coach of the 8th grade volleyball team at Noblesville West Middle school as well as a club volleyball coach for Miller Juniors. In her free time she spends time with friends, family, and enjoying nearly anything outdoors!

Mrs. Bishop | 3rd and 4th Grade Teacher

I “asked Jesus into my heart” when I was very young, and try know Him better everyday. I always wanted to be a teacher “when I grew up”, and have many fond memories of playing school with my brothers and sister. I am the 3rd and 4th grade teacher at the Open Door Location. I received my teaching degree from Taylor University in 2002, and married my high school sweetheart the week after graduation. I worked as a toddler teacher for a few years before becoming a Mom to Kate and Claire and then started teaching with Faith Montessori as a preschool teacher in 2015. I like tea, spending time with my family and being in nature.

Mrs. Stotts | Assistant

My name is Elizabeth. I am from Chile. I am married to Brett and we have a 10 year old daughter named Emily. We moved here to Indiana where my husband is from. This is my second year at Fatih Montessori. I am very grateful to be apart of Faith Montessori.