Director Qualifications

I am Dawn Beggs, and I bring over 25 years of experience in early childhood education to my role as Director at Creekside Montessori. My passion for fostering young minds has driven my career, and I am dedicated to creating enriching learning environments where children can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. With a deep commitment to the Montessori philosophy, I strive to be a visionary leader and a beloved figure within the Creekside community.

Qualifications and Training

• Montessori Certification: I am a certified Montessori educator, having completed rigorous training programs that focus on the Montessori method’s core principles and practices. This certification equips me with the skills to implement and oversee a curriculum that nurtures children’s natural curiosity and love for learning.
• Degree in Early Childhood Education: I hold an Associate of Arts Degree with an emphasis in Early Childhood Education, providing me with a strong academic foundation in child development, educational psychology, and instructional strategies tailored for young learners.
• Professional Development: I am committed to continuous professional growth. I regularly attend workshops, seminars, and conferences to stay updated with the latest educational trends and innovative teaching techniques. My dedication to lifelong learning ensures that I bring the best practices to Creekside Montessori.
• Leadership Experience: Over the past 25 years, I have held various leadership positions in early childhood education settings. My experience includes curriculum development, teacher training, and program administration, all of which contribute to my effective leadership at Creekside Montessori.

I am Katie Eckley, I am a passionate and experienced early childhood educator with 15 years of hands-on experience working with young children. My deep commitment lies in creating a nurturing and engaging learning environment where every child can thrive. I believe every day presents an opportunity to introduce new concepts and skills, helping my students grow into confident, independent learners.

Early Childhood Education Expertise:
Throughout my career, I’ve gained extensive knowledge in early childhood education, particularly during my time working in the Olathe School District’s Early Childhood classroom and Early Childhood Autism room. These experiences have allowed me to develop strong connections with young learners and provide them with the support they need to succeed.

Practical Classroom Experience:
Over the past 15 years, I’ve honed my ability to create a nurturing and stimulating classroom environment. I take great pride in fostering independence and creativity in my students, equipping them with problem-solving skills that will serve them well throughout their lives.

Montessori Methodology:
Since joining Creekside Montessori in May 2023, I have fully embraced the Montessori philosophy. My focus is on fostering independence, creativity, and critical thinking in each child, ensuring they receive an individualized education that nurtures their unique potential.

Commitment to Lifelong Learning:
Teaching children skills they can carry with them throughout their lives is my true passion. I love the daily opportunities I have to introduce new concepts and guide my students in developing self-sufficiency and a love for learning.

Family and Personal Interests:
On a personal note, I’ve been married for nearly 14 years and am a proud mother of four. I cherish the time I spend with my family, especially watching my children participate in sports. In my spare time, I enjoy crafting and engaging in creative activities, many of which I bring into the classroom to share with my students.

Early Childhood Coursework
I am currently in my first year of college at KU attending online.

Practical Experience
My passion for working with children has led me to various roles from being a dedicated nanny to a children’s swim instructor.

Montessori Training
In 2023, I began my journey as a teaching aid and then an assistant teacher in a Montessori environment. Since then, I have fully embraced the Montessori philosophy, applying its principles not only in the classroom but also in my everyday life.