MKU Beverly Team

Meet Our Team

Montessori Kids Universe Beverly recognizes that our caring, dedicated teachers are what makes our school so valuable. MKU Beverly recruits and maintains a high-quality staff through an intensive selection and vetting process. We provide on-going professional development and growth opportunities within our school, and foster a healthy work environment for our employees. Meet the most important aspect of our school: Our quality teaching staff!

Ashley Garcia

Head of School

Hi my name is Ashley Garcia and I am the Head of School at Montessori Kids Universe Ashburn. I have seven years of experience working with children, two of them being in child care management. I am currently pursuing my bachelor’s degree in psychology. My favorite part about working with children is watching them grow and flourish to their full potential! Seeing their confidence build after reaching a new goal is so rewarding. I also have a daughter, so as a parent, I understand the responsibility we take in caring for your child and the importance of building relationships. In my free time I enjoy crafting and being outdoors with my family.

Shai Vanderstelt

Assistant Director

Hello! My name is Shai Vanderstelt. I have been living in the Ashburn area for around ten years. My husband and I are very happy here, and I am even happier that I have found my place here at Montessori Kids Universe! When I am not at work, I spend time playing video games and going on walks with my husband. I have two cats named Hobbes and Banana! I am able to speak some German, but I am still in the process of learning. I enjoy learning new things and with MKU I feel as if I am learning something new every day! I started my career in childcare as an assistant teacher with a Kindergarten Prep class and from there I have grown, not just as a childcare professional but as a person, too. Tschüss für heute! (Bye for now!)

Donavi Bland

Lead Nido (Infant) Teacher

Hello! My name is Donavi Bland. I am an enthusiastic person that loves to take care of infants and young children. My inspiration for teaching was my mother who was always encouraging independence in me. Growing up, I loved the idea of teaching and understanding the influence a teacher has on the student, which made me passionate about pursuing child care as a career. I believe the Montessori Nido Program is the perfect fit for me. I love to see children’s independence flourish before my eyes, which is why I have decided to pursue the 0-3 Montessori Certification!