Administration

CSA_2024_Team-Directory_Kristen-Crawford

Kristen Crawford
Area Superintendent

Bio

Kristen Crawford is our Superintendent. She has earned her Bachelors of Science in Kinesiology from Liberty University, her Masters in Educational Administration and Supervision from Southern Wesleyan University, and has recently finished up her Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Liberty University. Prior to joining us, she served at Success Virtual Learning Centers, opening and running learning centers in Grand Rapids and Lansing. Her transition to leadership came after a decade of teaching Health and Physical Education in both private and public schools. Kristen has a great passion for finding ways to support, engage, and meet the unique needs of all students so that they can grow to their greatest potential.

Stacy Byrd
Head of School

Bio

Salutations, I am Stacy Byrd, Head of School at Four Corners Montessori Academy. Holding an AMS (American Montessori Society) certification, a B.S. in Early Childhood Education, and an M.A.Ed in Administration and Supervision, along with a School Administrator certificate from the state of Michigan, I bring over twenty-nine years of dedicated experience in Montessori education.

My journey in Montessori began as a parent in a small, private Montessori School in Rochester Hills, MI. It was during this time that I fell in love with the Montessori pedagogy, setting the course of my life's career. Throughout my career, I have taken on various roles, including Lead Teacher, Admissions Coordinator, Mentor, Instructor, Assistant Head of School and Head of School. I have also served as a consultant for different Montessori schools and instructed at the Michigan Montessori Teacher Education Center (MMTEC) and for Choice Schools.

It is through my years of experience that I have come to learn that a leader is not only to lead by example, but also to be of service to the community in which one serves. Therefore, it is my intention that we grow in relationship, community, and in service to the children in our lives.

Alex Byrd
Director of Operations

Bio

I am proud to be entering my 13th year at Four Corners Montessori Academy, where I have had the pleasure of serving in multiple roles. I began my journey in the school-aged Kid’s Club and quickly transitioned to Social Media and School Yearbook Coordinator, then served as the Administrative Assistant for our middle school. Now, as the Office Manager, I am excited to continue supporting our students, staff, and families.

With a background in Hispanic Studies from the University of Michigan, Dearborn, I have developed a deep passion for working with adolescents. As both a former Montessori student and a Montessori parent, I understand firsthand the importance of the foundational skills nurtured in Montessori education, such as independence, organization, and cooperation. I am committed to using my unique perspective and experiences to help support our students as they grow into self-sufficient and confident individuals.

Megan Modica
Administrative Assistant

Bio

My name is Megan, and I’m thrilled to be starting my sixth year at FCMA. I graduated from The University of Akron with a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education. FCMA feels like family to me, and the close-knit community makes this school truly special. Being part of this environment has been incredibly rewarding.

Outside of school, I enjoy cheering on my almost 12-year-old daughter in her competitive gymnastics, as well as supporting her activities on the softball field and at the dance studio.

Linda Parker
Behavior Support Specialist/Social Worker

Bio

Hello, I am Linda R. Parker, a dedicated Mental Health professional whose life’s work reflects a deep commitment to service, education, and faith. Educating adults and children has been a journey expanding over thirty-two years. I have a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology (BS), a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), and a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Wayne State University, and a Master of Divinity in Theology (MDIV) from Ashland Theological Seminary. I am a licensed Master Social Worker-Clinical and a licensed School Social Worker. I have a passion for working with students, and have dedicated my career to guiding, encouraging, and uplifting others as they navigate both personal and academic challenges. I am a wife, mother, and grandmother with my family being the joy of my life. I treasure time spent with my family and find fulfillment in traveling, exploring new places, and broadening my perspective of the world. My journey reflects not only academic and professional achievement but also a life of compassion, purpose, and service to others.

Faculty

Pre-Primary (Preschool)

Bonsai Room

Natasha Lee
Lead Teacher

Bio

My name is Natasha Lee, and I’m a proud Central Michigan University alum with nearly 16 years of teaching experience. As a true FCMA veteran with almost 14 years under my belt, my journey began as an assistant, and after six years, I was encouraged to step into a lead teacher role. Along the way, I fell head over heels for Montessori education and consider FCMA to be my second home.

When I’m not guiding students through the wonders of the Montessori method, I’m busy being a proud parent to my daughter, who’s starting her sophomore year in high school. Balancing parenthood and teaching has taught me the fine art of multitasking and navigating the teenage years with a sense of humor. Outside the classroom, I love to unwind with a good book or tackle a challenging puzzle. So, if I ever seem distracted, don’t worry—I’m just lost in a literary adventure or figuring out the best way to fit a thousand puzzle pieces together!

Sarah Johnson
Associate Teacher

Bio

Greetings FCMA! My name is Sarah Johnson, and I am excited to begin my first year as an Associate Teacher in the GSRP/Preschool program. I hold a degree in Early Childhood Development and bring many years of experience working with young children. Supporting children in their earliest years is something I am deeply passionate about, and I look forward to helping each child grow in independence, confidence, and joy for learning. Outside of school, I enjoy spending time outdoors, especially at my cottage up north, where I can relax and connect with nature. I am also an active member at St. Vincent Ferrer Church, where I sing int he choir on Sundays. I'm grateful to be a part of the FCMA community and can't wait to get to know our students and families throughout this school year.

Early Elementary (Kindergarten - 1st Grade)

Beech Room

Catherine DeDene
Lead Teacher

Bio

I’m Katie DeDene and I am so excited to be back at FCMA for another year! Before joining FCMA, I taught first grade at another of our Choice Schools. I hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Michigan State University, a Master’s Degree in Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment from Marygrove College and a Montessori certification from the North American Montessori Center.

I found myself drawn to the Montessori philosophy because of its appreciation for the connection between people and nature. We love the Outdoor Classroom in the Beech Room! When I am not working I like to read, cross stitch and spend time with my family. I know this year will be another adventure and I cannot wait to spend it with our amazing staff and family community.

Leah Jasky
Teacher Assistant

Bio

I’m Leah Jasky, the assistant teacher in the Beech Room. I started at FCMA the winter of 2024, so this will be my second full year with the team! Before joining FCMA, I worked at a private Montessori school, primarily with infants and toddlers. I’m excited to be part of the students’ learning journey, engaging with them during the work period and in the outdoor classroom.

I was drawn to the Montessori method because of its respect for the child and its focus on guiding them toward independent learning. When I’m not teaching, you can find me outdoors, enjoying time with my puppy Winston, or walking through the woods. I’m an avid foodie, love ALL genres of music, and enjoy dabbling in art. This year, I hope to bring kindness and my bubbly personality to the classroom, making it a fun and exciting year for everyone!

Cedar Room

Michelle Terokowskie
Lead Teacher

Bio

My name is Michelle, and I am proud to be part of the FCMA family since our very first year. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Oakland University and a Montessori Certification from the North American Montessori Center. My passion for the Montessori philosophy continues to grow, and I truly love learning alongside my students every day.
Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to support both early and lower elementary classrooms. This is my fourth year as the lead teacher in the Cedar Room, and I feel incredibly fortunate to work within such a supportive and dedicated school community. Our team of educators is exceptional, and the partnership we have with our families plays a vital role in our students' success.

As a teacher, my goal is to inspire students to ask questions, explore with curiosity, and work toward achieving their goals. Outside of the classroom, I enjoy reading, spending time with family and friends, and cheering on my son at his baseball games.

Jessica Powell
Teacher Assistant

Bio

My name is Jessica Powell, and this will be my 15th year at Four Corners Montessori Academy. Although I initially majored in Communications at Oakland University, I discovered my passion for working with children while employed at the Upward Bound Synergy program. My journey soon led me to a Montessori school serving low-income families, where I realized that my true purpose in life was to work with children. Twenty-two years later, I still believe that to be true and have developed a deep appreciation for the Montessori philosophy. I am committed to nurturing the natural curiosity of children and promoting independence in our students in the Cedar Room.

In my spare time, I enjoy watching The Walking Dead, indulging in scary movies, shopping with my identical twin sister, Jennifer, and working as a freelance makeup artist, making people look glamorous. I’m excited to continue fostering a love of learning in our students this year!

Kim Crespo
Paraprofessional

Bio

Hello, my name is Kim Crespo, and I am so happy to be a part of the Four Corners Montessori Academy community. My career path has taken me through a variety of roles, including working for Oakland County in pre-trail supervision and as a probation investigoator, as well as teaching preschool earlier in my career. I have also had the privilege of working as a nanny for many families, and one of the children I cared for from infancy has grown into a successfuly attorney in New York. Each of these experiences has strengthend my commitment to supporting children as they learn and grow. I am also the proud parent of seven children, six boys and one girl, and two of them began attending FCMA toward the end of last school year. It has been a joy to join the FCMA family both as a parent and now as a member of the staff. I look forward to a wonderful year together, helping our students thrive in a nurturing Montessori environment.

Redbud Room

Brittany Weingartz
Lead Teacher

Bio

I am Brittany Weingartz and I am excited to be rejoining the FCMA team after 3 years at home with my youngest child. This will be my 8th year at Four Corners and my 10th year as a Montessori teacher. I hold a Bachelor's degree in Elementary education from Central Michigan University and a Montessori certification from the North American Montessori Center.

My passion for the Montessori philosophy stems from a deep belief in the limitless potential of every child and a commitment to nurturing that potential through thoughtful, respectful education. From the moment I was first introduced to Montessori, I was struck by its emphasis on the development of the whole child—not just academically, but emotionally, socially, and spiritually. The Montessori principles of hands-on learning, respect for the child, and the prepared environment have transformed the way I view education. I am continually inspired by the idea that children are naturally curious, capable individuals who thrive when given the freedom to explore within thoughtfully designed boundaries.

Erin Horn
Teacher Assistant

Bio

Hi there! My name is Erin Horn and this is my first year at FCMA! I have a BA in English Literature from Oakland University and an American Library Association certificate in Library Technical Services from Oakland Community College. In my former position as a library technician for a local school district, I managed two elementary media centers and taught children how to use their school libraries. I love helping kids find their new favorite book.

My wonderful husband and I are the proud parents of one human boy child and two girl dogs named Avery and Mildred Louise. In my free time I enjoy reading horror novels, baking, antiquing with my girlfriends, and camping with my family.

Lower Elementary (2nd - 3rd Grade)

Palm Room

Angela Gordon
Co-Lead Teacher

Bio

Hello! My name is Angela Gordon, and I am thrilled to begin my third year at Four Corners Montessori Academy. I hold a bachelor’s degree in Conservation Biology from Lake Superior State University and have many years of experience in environmental and outdoor education. I have taught team building, science, history, survival skills, and more to learners from preschool through adulthood at an environmental learning center, a YMCA camp, and a nature center. Overall I just love spending time outside whether I am out hiking/exploring nature or playing sports with family and friends.
Before joining FCMA, I served with FoodCorps, an AmeriCorps position, where I taught food and gardening education to PreK-8th grade classes in two schools within Detroit Public Schools Community District (DPSCD).

I am excited to continue supporting our wonderful students and staff at FCMA, drawing from my diverse background in education and passion for fostering curiosity and growth in the classroom! Cheers to a new year filled with reading, exploring, and flourishing!

Daniel Stipanovich
Co-Lead Teacher

Bio

Hello! My name is Daniel Byington, and I am thrilled to begin my third year as the music teacher at Four Corners Montessori Academy! I hold a degree in music education and performance from Oakland University and am passionate about sharing the joy of music with students.

In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my wife and our two huskies, as well as composing and performing music with my bands. I’m excited for another wonderful year of music-making and creativity at FCMA!

Sassafras Room

Erica Scott
Lead Teacher

Bio

Christine Moore
Teacher Assistant

Bio

Hello! My name is Christine Moore, and I am excited to be in my fourth year at Four Corners Montessori Academy, working alongside Ms. Erica in the Sassafras Room. I have seven years of experience in Montessori education, having spent three years at Harmony Montessori in Oak Park before joining FCMA.

I am passionate about helping students learn and thrive in a Montessori environment, and I look forward to an amazing 2025-2026 school year with our wonderful students and staff!

Upper Elementary (4th - 6th Grade)

Gingko Room

Darin Howard
Lead Teacher

Bio

I am Darin Howard, and I am excited to be in my 8th year at Four Corners Montessori Academy. I hold a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education with a major in Social Studies from Central Michigan University and bring 13 years of teaching experience to my role.

I have a deep passion for working with middle school adolescents, and I am dedicated to fostering their independence and helping them develop into self-sufficient young adults. I greatly appreciate the Montessori philosophy, especially its application to the adolescents program and hands-on learning. I look forward to another rewarding year at FCMA, supporting our students’ growth and development.

Pine Room

Amanda Resseth
Lead Teacher

Bio

I am a mom of 3 (ages 10, 6, 4) and have a passion for education. This is my first year with FCMA and also my first year as a teacher. Before coming here I worked at Center Line Public Schools for over 3 years as a Title 1 Para and a long-term substitute teacher as well as teaching middle school math at their summer school program.

In my spare time I'm usually playing board games or doing crafts with my kids. I also enjoy nature walks, gardening, drawing and watching movies with my husband and fur baby Giselle.

John Collier
Resource Room Teacher & Teacher Assistant

Bio

I am John Collier, and this will be my tenth year at Four Corners Montessori Academy. This year, I will serve as an assistant teacher in the Pine Room and as one of the Special Education teachers. I hold a BA in Special Education with a minor in Elementary Education from Wayne State University. Before transitioning to education, I worked in the sales field but always felt a calling to teach children.

In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my family, playing pickleball, and following the Detroit Tigers and Lions (especially when they’re on a roll). I also love to read.

I am excited to be back at FCMA and working in the Pine Room with Ms. Amanda.

Willow Room

Malynn Kosnik
Lead Teacher

Bio

Hello, my name is Malynn Kosnik. I'm excited to be teaching Upper Elementary in the Willow classroom this year. I earned my degree at Grand Valley State University and spent the past 2 years as a Physical Education and Health teacher before returing to the classroom to help young minds grow through curiousity and discovery. Outside of teaching, I'm also a barber at The Cut Lounge in Royal Oak. Recently, I bought my first home in Royal Oak with my Fiance and welcomed a golden retriever puppy named Winston into our lives. Did I mention I was a huge Detroit Lions fan? GO LIONS!

Hailey Rang
Teacher Assistant

Bio

Hello! My name is Hailey Rang, and I’m so excited to be starting my first full year at FCMA! This year I'm super excited to be in the Willow room as a TA looking forward to a great 2025/2026 school year.

I joined the community last February as a TA in the Cypress classroom and have loved being part of such a nurturing, child-centered environment.

My wife and I have been married for 18 wonderful years. We have five amazing children and are proud grandparents to three beautiful grandchildren.

I bring multiple years of teaching experience to the classroom. I hold a CDA in Early Childhood Education and have served as both a lead teacher in preschool and Pre-K classrooms, as well as a TA in a GSRP program. Teaching in a Montessori environment holds a very special place in my heart. My youngest child attended a Montessori school from 4th through 8th grade, and seeing him thrive with the skills and confidence he gained through that method has been a true gift.

I deeply believe in the Montessori philosophy—a child-centered approach that emphasizes independence, observation, and a carefully prepared environment. It truly honors each child's individual path of development.

Outside of the classroom, I enjoy game nights, bonfires, music, and playing Disney Lorcana.

I’m looking forward to an amazing school year and feel honored to be part of the FCMA community!

Middle School (7th - 8th Grade)

Birch Room

Jessica Brown
Lead Teacher

Bio

Hello, my name is Jessica Brown, and I am in my third year at Four Corners Montessori Academy. I graduated from Oakland University in 2023, but my passion for teaching began in my senior year of high school when I volunteered to teach 1st-grade Catechism at my local church. Through that experience, I discovered the joy of helping a child understand a concept and make meaningful connections between their thoughts and the subject matter. I also realized that while my path might not be in religious education, I am passionate about fostering those same connections in students through literature.

This led me to pursue an in-depth education in English language and World Literature, with a focus on teaching at the middle to high school level. I developed a deep love for poetry, the arts, and the power of a great book. Over time, I even learned to appreciate Shakespeare beyond the usual teenage perception of him as a long-dead author.

At home, I have a beautiful daughter, and I hope to share my love of books with her someday. Our nightly reads already include one of my favorites, “The Hobbit” by J.R.R. Tolkien. I’m excited to continue my journey at FCMA, inspiring a love of literature in my students.

Priyanka Dutt
Montessori Associate Teacher

Bio

My name is Priyanka Dutt, and this is my second year as a Montessori Associate Teacher in the middle school program. I hold a Master’s degree in Chemistry and a Bachelors in Education. I served as a high school science teacher for three years before moving to the United States.Here, I was drawn to the Montessori philosophy and since then, I have been working in Montessori schools for over eight years now.Through these many years I have worked with different age groups from lower elementry up to high school.

I have been married for 20 years and have two lovely daughters (18 and 14). In my free time, I enjoy watching movies, listening to music, and travelling with my family.

Support Staff

Marianne LaPoint
Special Education Teacher

Bio

My name is Marianne LaPoint, and I have been teaching students with special needs at FCMA since 2009, when our school first opened. I graduated from Central Michigan University (Fire Up!) and earned my master’s degree from Oakland University. With 26 years of teaching experience, I am dedicated to providing my students with the tools they need for success, using both the Montessori Method and Orton-Gillingham to teach reading.

I am married and a mom to three daughters and two cats. In my free time, I enjoy shopping, reading, traveling with my family, and watching one of my daughters play college soccer. I am excited about the upcoming year and look forward to providing my students the necessary tools to achieve greater success in school and in life!

Amy Eidt
Speech & Language Pathologist

Bio

Hello! I have been the Speech Language Pathologist (SLP) at FCMA for 13 years. I earned my bachelor’s degree in English from Oakland University and my master’s degree in Speech Language Pathology from Wayne State University. I love all animals, the arts, reading, gardening, and spending time with my brilliant and hilarious son, Benjamin and my goofy mutt, Gimli. I love being a part of the FCMA community and lending my artistic skills during the annual art show and the culture fair. I am looking forward to another great year, and remember: talk is cheap, but communication is priceless!

Ann Mossington
Literacy Coach/Reading Interventionist

Bio

Hello! My name is Ann Mossington, and I am delighted to return to Four Corners Montessori Academy for my fourth year as the Reading Interventionist. I hold a B.S. degree from Oakland University and a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) from Wayne State University, with a minor in elementary education. My background includes experience both as a classroom teacher and as a Title I reading intervention teacher.

I love being able to help students become more fluent and confident readers, and I am excited to support their growth and development this year. Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my husband and three children, exploring new places, and being outdoors. I look forward to another wonderful year of learning and growing together at FCMA!

Achamma Kanjrakkattu
Math Interventionist

Bio

I am delighted to begin my third year at Four Corners Montessori Academy, where I bring over 36 years of experience in education to support our students' mathematical growth and success. With a Doctorate in Education and a Professional Teaching Certificate from the State of Michigan, endorsed in Mathematics, I have served as a Math Instructor, Teacher, Coordinator, Head of the Math Department, and Math Interventionist.

At FCMA, my role as the Math Interventionist will allow me to support students by providing targeted instruction and individualized learning strategies. I am passionate about the Montessori approach, which fosters a love for learning, encourages curiosity, and helps each child reach their full potential. I look forward to collaborating with our dedicated staff and partnering with parents to create a nurturing environment where every student thrives in mathematics and beyond.

Christine Pauley
4 – 8 Math Interventionist (Americorps)

Bio

Claire Donohoe
K – 3 Reading Interventionist (Americorps)

Bio

Lindall Pritchett
K – 3 Math Interventionist (Americorps)

Bio

Specials

Daniel Byington
Music Teacher

Bio

Symphony Keener
Fine Arts Coordinator

Bio

Hello! my name is Symphony Stradivaris, and I am excited to join the FCMA team as the new Fine Arts Coordinator. I feel very blessed to be a part of this community and I'm looking forward to supporting students as they discover and grow their creative expression. A little about me, I am a proud mother of two wonderful children and bring a lifelong passion for the arts into my role. My background includes being a licensed nail technician, a craft that has allowed me to combine precision, design, and creativity, skills that carry naturally into guiding students in the fine arts. Outside of work, I enjoy staying active and adventurous, I love walking, swimming, skating, tetherball, dogeball, and flag football. I also have a big heart for animals and for spending time outdoors. I am thrilled to begin this joureny with FCMA, and I can't wait to see what this school year brings!

Kid's Club

Alicia Wilson

Kid's Club Staff

Bio

Hi, my name is Alicia! I earned a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Walsh College and spent 45 years in banking at Bank of America. After retiring, I wanted to pursue my passion for working with children, which led me to join the FCMA team three years ago as a Kids Club childcare provider. I truly enjoy spending time with the kids and helping them grow. I have one son, Benjamin, and in my free time, I love going to the gym, attending movies and concerts, and traveling. I’m also a proud pet parent to a dog and three adorable kitties! in closing I look forward to to a great 2025-2026 year!!!!

School Nutrition Team

Carrie Albright
Head Cook

Bio

I’m Carrie Albright, and I’m excited to continue my role as Head Cook at Four Corners Montessori Academy! My journey with FCMA began long before I officially became an employee in 2018. I started by serving meals to our students through Edibles Rex, our former food vendor, and continued in this role with each of the food vendors we used over the years. In 2018, I joined FCMA as a custodian while still helping serve meals.

Two years ago, when FCMA made the decision to prepare meals onsite, I proudly stepped into the role of Head Cook. I love working with children and am passionate about providing healthy, delicious meals to fuel their learning and growth. I’m looking forward to another great year at FCMA, serving our wonderful students and staff!

Custodians

Samuel Ripley
Custodian

Bio

Hello, my name is Mr. Sam. I have had the pleasure of being part of the maintenance and custodial team here at FCMA for the last seven years. As a proud parent of an FCMA student, I understand firsthand the importance of creating a safe and welcoming environment for our children to learn and grow. My role allows me to ensure that our school is clean, well-maintained, and ready for all the exciting activities our students engage in each day. I take great pride in my work and strive to contribute positively to the FCMA community. When I’m not working, I enjoy spending time with my family and participating in various community events. I look forward to another wonderful year at FCMA!

Dwayne Albright
Custodian

Bio

Hello FCMA! My name is Dwayne Albright, and I’ve had the pleasure of being part of the custodial team at Four Corners Montessori Academy since March of 2019. During my time here, I’ve enjoyed working to keep our school environment clean, safe and welcoming for all students and staff. I take pride in ensuring that FCMA remains a space that is ready for productive learning each day.

When I’m not at FCMA, I enjoy spending time with my family and pursuing my personal interests. I’m proud to be a part of this wonderful school community and look forward to continuing to support everyone at FCMA.

Our Staff