Meet Our Educators

Carrie Lamb - Director

Hello, I’m Carrie Lamb and I am the Executive Director here at Children’s House Montessori. I hold a BS in Elementary Education from Montana State University. I have been in the childcare and education world in Whitefish for the past 20 years as a Nanny, Preschool Teacher, Children's Activities Manager, Paraeducator, Behavior Interventionist, Summer Camp Director, and my favorite Coach. My family and I enjoy year-round recreation, especially playing softball in the summer and skiing in the winter. My favorite children’s book is Go Away, Big Green Monster by Ed Emberley.

Shannon Ballard - Associate Director

Shannon has been with Children’s House Montessori School since 2023. She graduated with a degree in Early Childhood Education and has found her passion for providing a quality, loving education experience for all families and students. She has over 10 years of experience working in a childcare based setting. Shannon loves working with children and seeing them learn and develop in their exceptional ways through a variety of learning experiences. In her free time Shannon is with her family always exploring the beautiful state we are so lucky to call home. Favorite children’s book; I Wish You More Written by Amy Krouse Rosenthal & Tom Lichtenheld

Amanda Fleming - Aspen Class Lead Teacher

Hi all. My name is Amanda and I am the lead teacher in the Aspen class. This is my 21st year working in early childhood and my 16th year working at CHMS. The school has become a second home and I love welcoming each new collection of students. I have focused my education on early childhood specific knowledge and have both a general early education degree as well as a Montessori specific certification. This year I have returned to school yet again and I am working with the Salish Kootenai College to continue advancing my education. I am an outdoor based person and spend the bulk of my free time in nature. Our family values supporting others and caring for young people so we also foster and support teens in need. At this time, we have four sons and I am proudly watching them all grow into fine young adults. As a book lover, picking a favorite is always hard, but if I was to get specific, The Little Red Fish by Taeun Yoo has always been a favorite of mine.

Darcie Blanden - Birch Class Lead Teacher

Hello, my name is Darcie Blanden and I am the Lead Teacher in the Birch Classroom. I hold a Bachelors of Science degree in Health and Human Development as well as being Montessori Certified through the American Montessori Society. I am an outdoor enthusiast and I enjoy hiking, skiing, and following my kids to all their activities. My favorite children’s book is The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein.

Eve Hunter - Saplings Class Lead Teacher

Hello, my name is Eve Hunter and I am the Lead Teacher in the Saplings classroom. I have a BA in Art from Linfield College and a MA in Education-Montessori from Montessori Northwest and Loyola University. I have been working with children since 2001 as a nanny, a Head Start teacher and a Montessori teacher. This is my 13th year working at CHMS in the Saplings program. I enjoy hiking, camping, knitting and being crafty. My favorite children’s book is Blueberries For Sal by Robert McCloskey.

Camas Johnson - Saplings Class Assistant Teacher

My name is Camas Johnson, and I was born and raised in the beautiful state of Montana. Over the past five years, I’ve had the privilege of working in a Montessori classroom, which has deeply fueled my passion for education. I am currently pursuing my Montessori certification to further my skills and knowledge in this field.

Outside of the classroom, I love spending time with my family, friends, and my two fluffy white dogs. I’m also an avid outdoor enthusiast who enjoys skiing in the winter and paddleboarding during the warmer months. Working with children has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my young adult life, and I’m excited to continue this rewarding journey.

Alysa Mitchell - Aspen Class Assistant Teacher

With over 10 years of experience in early childhood education, I am a dedicated Montessori assistant teacher passionate about nurturing young minds. I believe in the Montessori philosophy of "learning by doing," encouraging hands-on activities that promote problem-solving and critical thinking skills. I have been here at CHMS for three years and have enjoyed every moment. What I love most about CHMS are our wonderful families and dedicated loving staff. When I'm not in the classroom, I enjoy spending time with my family outdoors. My favorite children's book is Miss Rumphius by Barbara Cooney.

Josie Muri - Birch Class Assistant Teacher

Miss Josie is in her third year as a Montessori teacher assistant. She holds a degree in graphic design and brings her creative passion into the classroom. With a deep love for all things art and theater, Miss Josie enjoys incorporating imaginative elements into her teaching, including puppetry. She believes in fostering creativity and self-expression in her students, helping them explore the world through a blend of art and Montessori principles

Bailey McKee - Aspen Class Support

Hello! My name is Bailey. I graduated from Lower Columbia College with an Associate’s in Art. Shortly after I moved to Missoula to attend the University of Montana and studied Health and Human Performance. This is my third school year at CHMS and I have learned so much from the amazing staff at CHMS. My free time is spent outdoors biking or snowboarding, fishing and hunting. My favorite childhood book is The Giving Tree.

Kyla- Murphy - Birch Class Support

Hello, my name is Kyla. This is my second school year here at CHMS. I have always had a passion for early childhood education and feel I have really found my place and grown as a child care professional here at CHMS. I continue to learn from the amazing team here as well as the children. When I am not working I enjoy swimming, camping and spending time with my family. Favorite children’s book; Momma do you love me? By: Barbara M Joosse

Sally Kelley - Saplings Class Support

Hello there. I’m Sally Kelley. I’ve had the pleasure of working in the Saplings classroom since March of 2024. I started my teaching career after receiving my BA in Elementary Education in Northern California. My husband and I moved to Montana in 2004 to start our family and live our dream in a small town. Working in my garden, dancing to live music, exploring the mountains with my dog, and playing on our rivers and lakes fill my free time. My favorite children’s book is Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak. My now teenaged daughter was lucky enough to be a student of Ms Eve’s and made her way through kindergarten here at CHMS. It brings me great joy to come back to this wonderful program as an aide.

Maegan Schuler - Saplings Class Assistant Teacher

Maegan Schuler is in her second year working in the Saplings program. With over five years of experience as a nanny and classroom assistant, she brings a wealth of knowledge and passion for early childhood education. When she's not in the classroom, you can often find her exploring the outdoors with her dog, Sol, whether rafting, snowboarding, or hiking through the woods. Maegan also enjoys sculpting with clay and baking delicious treats. Her favorite children's book is We Walk Through the Forest by Lisa Ferland.

Our Teachers

Our experienced and dedicated teachers are passionate about the Montessori method and are committed to creating a positive and nurturing learning environment for children. They provide individualized attention to each child and work closely with parents to support their child's development.