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About Our School
We provide an inclusive and authentic Montessori environment that protects the potential of all of the children of Aurora, Colorado, by addressing their differing and specific needs and providing a safe space where individualism is embraced and encouraged.
Flame Lily puts community and equity forefront, in hopes to create a working system that deeply supports and nurtures every child and their family, both at home and school.
Our Teacher Leaders
Ana Celedon
Founding Teacher Leader and School Director
I began my Montessori journey with toddlers and was a Toddler Lead Guide for over 5 years. I have been in the Primary classroom since 2019 and loved every minute of it. While in the classroom I hope to make every child feel loved, honored, and encouraged to learn freely.
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I was born and raised in Miami, Florida and I was fortunate to live and study in Matagalpa, Nicaragua for some time. I spontaneously moved to Colorado in 2015 with my dog, Sitka and it’s been the best decision ever made. I enjoy camping, live music, going to sports events, and spending time with my loved ones.
Caroline Alsmeyer
Founding Teacher Leader and Primary Guide
I have been a Primary Lead Guide for ten years and also have my Early Childhood Education Director’s Certification. As a Lead Guide, I strive to; instill an early love of learning by honoring, following, and expanding on each child’s personal interests and help to guide them on their individual paths of development.
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I was born and raised in the Washington D.C. area before I began my adventures across the country. I received my undergraduate degree in Hospitality Management from the University of Central Florida and then moved out to CO to begin my Montessori journey. My interests outside of teaching include: music, the outdoors, yoga, traveling, and spending time with family and friends!
Tatenda Blessing Muchiriri
Founding Flame Lily Member
Tatenda Muchiriri was born in Zimbabwe and discovered his love of Montessori when he moved to China where he had the opportunity to work with children for seven years before moving to Boulder, Colorado in 2015.
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Tatenda is passionate about Montessori philosophy and received his American Montessori Society Infant/Toddler and Early Childhood credential through the Montessori Education Center of the Rockies. He was privileged to be part of the AMS Emerging Leaders Fellowship 2nd cohort 2018. He is also a Moonshot EdVenture 2020 fellow and currently a full-time board member of Colorado Montessori Association.
Tatenda is a co-founder of Flame Lily Wildflower School, an Early Childhood School serving 3–6-year-old in Aurora and Denver. Flame Lily Wildflower Schools is a Montessori school that uses culturally relevant pedagogy and an anti-bias, anti-racist curriculum.
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When he is not working with young children, he is usually reading a good book or trying a new recipe. He loves traveling to different places and learning about people’s cultures and food.