Resource Teacher

I have been teaching in GRPS for over 20 years and in Montessori for 19 of those years. I was able to attend Secondary Montessori Training in Cincinnati in 2012 which cemented my love for the method! My degree is in psychology and special education and my masters degree in learning disabilities from GVSU. I also have a minor in art education which I love to use in my work with our students. 

Math

Hello!  I am Mrs. Ostrowski.  I was born in Massachusetts before moving to Grand Rapids and I graduated from West Catholic and Aquinas College.  I taught in Arizona for 12 years before returning to Michigan.  My last three years have been with Innovation Central High School.  I have a Master's of Science in Special Education and a Masters in Mathematics Instruction from Western Governors University.  I have a daughter, Samantha, who is attending Western Michigan University and a son, Nathan, who will be in first grade this year.  I live with my children and husband and two cats in Wayland.

Science

Greetings, fellow scientists! I'm thrilled to be joining you on this journey of discovery as your Science Teacher at Grand Rapids Montessori High School. Throughout my years in education I find there are 10 kinds of people, those who understand binary code and those who don't. More importantly, I'm a firm believer that science isn't just about memorizing facts – it's about the process of asking questions, conducting experiments, and unraveling the mysteries of the universe. I'm passionate about fostering a collaborative learning environment where students can explore their inner scientists and work together to solve challenges. When I'm not busy exploring the world of science, you can usually find me on the trails riding my mountain bike, attempting to find balance and inner peace through yoga, or off on a new adventure with my wife, Megan. We're a busy crew with two kids, Zeke (10), and Stella (8), and our furry companion, Luna, a 3yr old puppy scientist who's always eager to sniff out new discoveries. I am a graduate of Rockford High School, I’ve earned my Associate's from GRCC, my Bachelor's from GVSU, and I'm currently finishing up my Master's in Education at Aquinas College. So, grab your lab coats (or maybe just your curiosity), and let's embark on this scientific journey together.

Social Studies

Hey! I am Mr. Matt (or Mr. Rodriguez).  I have a passion for history which is why I teach history! I love teaching at Grand Rapids Montessori because the smaller environment gives me a chance to get to know the students better so I can better assist them in their educational journey. 

Social Studies and Electives

I have been teaching in GRPS for over 10 years, 9 of those at Grand Rapids Montessori.  First as one of the first Middle School Teachers in the central building and currently in the High School.  I am originally from Minnesota; on occasion, you will hear me drop a long "O".  Girl Scouts and Experiential Education led me to actively seek a position at Montessori.  Like Mrs. Gill, I too trained with CMSTEP in Cincinnati, OH over two summers.  The mission of a Montessori education speaks to my need to learn from all my senses with practical hands-on experiences. As a child, I would have loved to be a Montessori student, today I feel blessed to be a Montessori Educator. 

Math and Science

I am Ms. Turan, most just call me Ms. T though! I am a recent graduate of Grand Valley State University where I earned my bachelor's of science where I earned my certification in Secondary Mathematics and Chemistry. For fun, I love to take walks, play cards, and spend time with family, friends, and our cats. I can't wait to get to know you more! 

Spanish

I graduated from Trinity College with a degree in Spanish, Physical Education and a minor in Psychology. I also have a master's degree in Educational Leadership. My first assignment was in four grades and I can say it was very challenging, but it only deepened my passion for teaching, and I knew this was my calling. I have taught Spanish for over twenty-five years. I am married and have two children. I like to go to the gym, listen to Salsa and Merengue music, and walk the dogs.

Hello, I am Antonio McDaniel. I hold a Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice from Ferris State University. I began working with youth in 2007 as an Activity Leader for an after-school program, and I've been passionate about supporting and mentoring students ever since.

I am married and a proud Father of four amazing children. In my free time, I enjoy watching sports and listening to interviews and podcasts. I strive to engage, encourage, and empower students to become the best version of themselves.

Health and PE

Hello, my name is Whitney Weinkein. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Health Education from The University of Arizona and a Master of Science in Health Promotion from Boise State University. For the past 20 years, I have dedicated my career to both teaching and working in public health, and I am passionate about helping students learn the importance of physical education and health. Outside of school, I am married with two teenage sons, and we enjoy an active family life with our three dogs—two pugs and a mini goldendoodle. I love watching sports, especially when my sons are playing, and I enjoy spending time outdoors hiking and being on the water. I am excited for this new school year and look forward to educating and inspiring students to lead healthy, active lives. 

Art

School Psychologist

I am excited to work with GR Montessori PK-12 for the fifth year as the school psychologist!  I have worked as a school psychologist for 19 years and have been with GRPS for 8 years.  I primarily work through the Student Success Team and special education processes.  I am on the GR Montessori campus 2 to 3 days a week.  I love serving students and families!  I have four children at home (15, 12, 10, 7).

Band

Hello GR Montessori Students/Families! I have been living in Grand Rapids since 1991 when I first attended Aquinas College. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education and a Master’s in the Art of Teaching from Aquinas. I’ve also completed most of another Master’s degree in Urban Education from Davenport University.

In college I was deeply involved in most of the performing ensembles. My main ensemble was the college Jazz Band. My major instrument was the Saxophone and my minor was the Trombone.

I have been teaching with the Grand Rapids Public Schools since the Fall of 2000. I have been with GR Montessori since 2011. Throughout my time with the district I have taught music at every level and at many different schools. I’m quite happy that I’ve landed here at GR Montessori. The kids here are great and our music program just keeps getting better every year.

I have a wife and two daughters. My wife works at Aberdeen Academy and my youngest daughter attends this school as well. My oldest is a Sophomore at City HS. We live in Grand Rapids on the north east side of town.

Choir

Mrs. Gazella Falknor received both her BME and her MMEd from Central Michigan University. Fire Up Forever! She has been teaching music in the public schools for 10 years both in MI and in AZ. She currently lives in Grand Haven with her husband Daniel and their pets Webster (dog) & Saguaro (cat.)  Under the direction of Mrs. Gazella Falknor the Grand Rapids Montessori Middle School Chorale received a Division II rating at the MSVMA Choral Festival in 2020. This was the first time the choir had attended the festival, their score was only 5 points short of a Division I rating. Mrs. Gazella Falknor also started a High School Choir program in the midst of the Covid pandemic.  Mrs. Gazella Falknor truly loves sharing the gift of music with all her students and constantly is looking for new ways to teach musical concepts. When she is not teaching music she could be found performing with “Staff Notes,” ( a choral performance group made up of other GRPS staff) singing at weddings, going on hikes with her parents, grabbing coffee (her favorite drink) with friends, or searching with her husband for new vinyl to add to their record collection. Mrs. Gazella Falknor really enjoys working for Grand Rapids Montessori, “it’s work but it feels like home.” 

Hello! I am thrilled to be at Grand Rapids Montessori! I have been a pediatric speech therapist in the city for 8 years and really enjoy it! 2022-2023 is my first year in the district. My wife Julie and I live in the Alger Heights neighborhood of Grand Rapids and have 2 dogs. Outside of school, we like to watch reality TV and true crime shows, play board games, and craft.