Generated by All in One SEO v5.0.1.1, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # A Children's Habitat Montessori School Circular Excellence for Children 18 Months Through 12 Years ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Pages - [Home](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/) - [Parent Portal](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/parents/parent-portal/) - This space is just for current parents in our Habitat community. Here you can find documents and forms, the internal school calendar, submit interest forms, RSVP for family nights, check out current volunteer opportunities, and more. We are thrilled to welcome four new staff members as we kick off the 2026-2027 school year. Please warmly - [Volunteer](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/parents/parent-portal/volunteer/) - [Calendar](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/parents/parent-portal/calendar/) - [Documents & Forms](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/parents/parent-portal/documents-forms/) - Easy access to important documents and forms in one streamlined location. All documents are the most recent and up-to-date on file, but if we’re missing something please let the office know through either an email or phone call. - [Tuition](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/admissions/tuition/) - [News](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/news/) - [Admissions](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/admissions/) - [Visit](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/admissions/visit/) - [About](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/about/) - [Join Our Team](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/about/openings/) - [Legacy](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/legacy/) - [Parents](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/parents/) - [Programs](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/programs/) - [Support](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/support/) - [Media Guide](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/news/media-guide/) - [Our Board](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/about/our-board/) - [Montessori in the Home](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/parents/montessori-in-the-home/) - [Montessori Resources](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/parents/montessori-resources/) - [Our Staff](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/about/our-staff/) - [Login](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/login/) ## Infographic Sliders - [$20k in Available Financial Aid](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/infographic-slider/20k-in-available-financial-aid/) - [1/2 Outdoor Classroom Acreage](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/infographic-slider/1-2-outdoor-classroom-acreage/) - [21 Zip Codes Represented](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/infographic-slider/21-zip-codes-represented/) - [Average Class Size](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/infographic-slider/average-class-size/) - [75 Experience](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/infographic-slider/75-experience/) - [AMS Member](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/infographic-slider/ams-member/) ## Programs - [Summer Camp](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/program/summer-camp/) - [Elementary](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/program/elementary/) - [Primary](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/program/primary/) - [Toddler](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/program/toddler/) - [Aftercare](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/program/aftercare/) ## Summer Camp Themes - [Herpetology 101: All About Amphibians & Reptiles](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/summer-camp-theme/herpetology/) - Slither, hop, and explore! Campers will discover frogs, turtles, snakes, lizards, and more through hands-on activities, games, and crafts. Children will learn what makes these animals unique, where they live, and why they matter. Two camps are available for this week: A toddler camp and a 3-9 camp, both running from 9:00 AM - 12:00 - [I Have A Story To Tail You: All About Birds](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/summer-camp-theme/all-about-birds/) - Spread your wings for a week of bird discovery! Children will learn about feathers, beaks, songs, and migration through nature walks, hands-on science, and bird-inspired art. A perfect week for budding naturalists. Two camps are available for this week: A toddler camp and a 3-9 camp, both running from 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM. - [Chess Camp](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/summer-camp-theme/chess-camp/) - Join Mr. Dean from Learning Through Games for an engaging Chess Camp! Students will build chess skills through interactive lessons, friendly matches, and strategic challenges. This camp is available for ages 6-12 from 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM. - [Board Game Design](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/summer-camp-theme/board-game-design/) - Calling all creative thinkers and game lovers! Students will design original board games—developing themes, rules, boards, and pieces. Campers will test ideas, collaborate, and refine games through play and feedback. This camp is available for ages 6-12 from 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM. - [Art Camp](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/summer-camp-theme/art-camp/) - A joyful celebration of creativity! Children will explore materials—from watercolor and collage to clay and printmaking—while learning about artists and techniques. This week is all about expression and experimentation. Two camps are available for this week: A toddler camp and a 3-9 camp, both running from 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM. - [Animal Architects](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/summer-camp-theme/animal-architects/) - Discover the incredible builders of the natural world! Children will investigate beehives, dams, nests, and burrows, then create their own structures. This camp encourages curiosity and engineering thinking. There is no camp July 3. Two camps are available for this week: A toddler camp and a 3-9 camp, both running from 9:00 AM - 12:00 - [Fairy Tales & Fanciful Things](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/summer-camp-theme/fairy-tales/) - Join us for a magical week filled with wonder! Children will step into classic fairy tales through creative problem-solving and whimsical art projects. Expect castles, capes, and imaginative adventures. Two camps are available for this week: A toddler camp and a 3-9 camp, both running from 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM. - [Meet Eric Carle!](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/summer-camp-theme/meet-eric-carle/) - Step into the colorful world of Eric Carle! Children will explore beloved stories through hands-on art, nature experiences, and playful literacy invitations. This week celebrates creativity, imagination, and storytelling. Two camps are available for this week: A toddler camp and a 3-9 camp, both running from 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM. ## Classrooms - [Primary - Lilac Room](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/classroom/lilac-room/) - Montessori primary classes are a delight to watch. The busy, yet surprisingly quiet hum of students as they go about their work is masterful, intentional, and awe-inspiring. Children in the Habitat primary program arrive and prepare themselves for the day by hanging their backpack and personal items and changing into indoor shoes. They are calmly - [Primary - Sunflower Room](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/classroom/peony-room/) - [Upper Elementary - Willow Community](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/classroom/upper-elementary/) - [Lower Elementary - Cedar Community](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/classroom/lower-elementary/) - It's a bright, new day, every day in our elementary rooms. Students are greeted as they enter at 8:30 AM. Morning work time includes spelling, daily math, and silent reading. Following, are lessons and then weekly planned work time. Together, these make up the morning work cycle for our elementary teams. Lunch and recess are - [Toddler](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/classroom/toddler/) - Our toddlers begin their day learning to confidently separate from their parents or caregivers. They are greeted by and learn to greet our toddler staff with warmth and calm encouragement, beginning the daily grace and courtesy routine here at Habitat. Throughout the day, students choose their work in the prepared environment guided by their teachers - [Outdoor](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/classroom/outdoor/) - The camp day begins and ends in our half-acre Outdoor Classroom, rain or shine (though campers will be moved promptly to our indoor classrooms in the event of inclement weather). While each week has a focused theme and planned curriculum to launch each day, student-led activities and exploration are encouraged and teachers will follow the ## Core Values - [Stewardship](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/core-value/stewardship/) - Just as we care for one another, we care for our broader social and natural worlds. - [Community](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/core-value/community/) - Inspired by a spirit of community and the power of collective talents, we focus efforts on building relationships and working with one another. - [Peace Education](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/core-value/peace-education/) - Kindness, empathy, and peaceful conflict resolution comprise and inform both our explicit and implicit curriculum. - [Joyful Learning](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/core-value/joyful-learning/) - Curiosity and joy for learning are habits cultivated by A Children’s Habitat. - [Diversity](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/core-value/diversity/) - Individuals are celebrated and appreciated for their unique qualities, perspectives, and backgrounds. - [The Montessori Method](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/core-value/the-montessori-method/) - We strive to meet and exceed the highest Montessori standards set forth by the American Montessori Society (AMS), through organized and individualized instruction, multi-age classrooms, and carefully prepared learning environments. ## Staff Profiles - [Maya Colmenero](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/staff-profile/maya-colmenero/) - [Kainan Huggins](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/staff-profile/kainan-huggins/) - Kainan began his career in childcare as a teenager, babysitting for neighbors. Since then, he has gained extensive experience as a caretaker, summer camp counselor, teacher, and after-school director. He finds it deeply rewarding to help children grow into their best selves and cannot imagine doing anything else. Outside of work, Kainan enjoys art, music, and reading graphic - [Gabby Gwinn](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/staff-profile/gabby-gwinn/) - Gabby is a third-year undergraduate student at Butler University studying Psychology and Neuroscience. She has always enjoyed working with children and has gained experience through volunteering in her church’s nursery and babysitting, as well as four years working in the dietary department at an assisted living facility. In her free time, Gabby enjoys reading, spending - [Minda Hohl](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/staff-profile/minda-hohl/) - Minda Hohl is proud to be teaching in the South classroom at A Children's Habitat. She has been a part of Habitat since 2008— teaching in the South/Peony class since 2011. Minda can also be found at Habitat during the summer months for camp! During the school year, you will most likely see her first thing - [Joyce Simmons](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/staff-profile/joyce-simmons/) - Joyce began her teaching career after earning a BS in Elementary Education from the University of South Florida and taught third grade for nine years. She has been part of the Habitat family since 2009 when she enrolled her oldest child at A Children's Habitat. She was enamored with the Montessori method and attended the - [Peyton Griggs](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/staff-profile/peyton-griggs/) - Peyton is passionate about children’s developing minds and loves the evidence-based practices that are commonplace at A Children’s Habitat. She has degrees in Developmental Psychology and Criminology, and previously ran a licensed childcare program for the better part of a decade. Her three children (Emmett, Marshall, and Anna) are also part of the ACH community. - [Elizabeth “Liz” Williams](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/staff-profile/liz-williams/) - As a 2016 Lilly Endowment Teacher Creativity Fellowship recipient, Liz received her teaching degree from Ball State and taught public school—grades 4 and 6. Following a move to Florida, Liz was hired on staff at a new magnet school using the Montessori method. Elizabeth received her Lower Elementary training in Boston and later returned to - [Alyssa Dyar](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/staff-profile/alyssa-dzar/) - With 12 years of teaching experience in Montessori classrooms, Alyssa is pleased to join A Children’s Habitat community. Alyssa’s appreciation and familiarity with the Montessori method started young. While growing up in Indianapolis, Alyssa attended IPS Montessori #91. After receiving her bachelor's in mathematics and linguistics from Indiana University, Alyssa worked in National Parks, community - [Sarah Dargatz](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/staff-profile/sarah-dargatz/) - Sarah has been with A Children’s Habitat since 2016. First as a parent, then as a volunteer and now as a school aide. She studied Anthropology and Archaeology at IUPUI with a minor in Museum Studies. She has worked in the Spacequest Planetarium at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis and the computer science lab at - [Jocelyn Gillespie](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/staff-profile/jocelyn-gillespie/) - Jocelyn has a diverse background in childcare, literacy tutoring, the arts, and hands-on outdoor work. She worked as a toddler caregiver before joining Circle City Readers, where she tutored kindergarten through third-grade students and helped them build confidence in their reading skills. Through volunteering with WWOOF (Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms), she gained experience in - [Cassie Stec](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/staff-profile/cassie-stec/) - Cassie Stec is a graduate of Butler University where she earned her Bachelors of English with a specialization in Professional Writing. She recently graduated from Purdue University with a Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering. Cassie has held a variety of positions both on and off Butler’s campus. Some of her past positions include laboratory technician at - [Kayla Pappas](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/staff-profile/kayla-pappas/) - I began my teaching career with an Undergraduate Degree in Art Education from Herron School of Art and Design. I taught Ceramics for the Saturday School Program at Herron for 3 years. I took time off after college to travel the world and gain experiences from different cultures. I have traveled all over the United States, France, Germany, Italy, The Rivera's - [Ash Weinschrott](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/staff-profile/primary-support-aide/) - Ash recently graduated from Saint Mary’s College with a bachelor’s degree in psychology. They are especially interested in Child Development and Child Life Psychology and plan to eventually pursue a master’s degree in that field. In their free time, Ash enjoys reading, cooking, and spending time with their cat, Nova. - [Cholpon Meimanilieva](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/staff-profile/cholpon-meimanilieva/) - Cholpon is the Lead in our Toddler classroom. She trained with Seton Montessori Institute as a Primary and Infant & Toddler guide, spending her practice year with A Children’s Habitat (ACH) in 2011 and remaining a part of the school since that time. Cholpon first learned about the Montessori education philosophy in 2007, when she - [Melissa Briede](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/staff-profile/melissa-briede/) - Melissa has always had a passion for young children, finding tremendous excitement in sharing when it all comes together for them in that ‘ah ha' moment. She has spent her career working with children—helping to build connections and develop independence is just a part of her make up. Melissa earned a Bachelor of Science in Child - [Miriam Monroy](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/staff-profile/miriam-monroy/) - Miriam Monroy is a dedicated educator with a rich background in childhood development and a passion for fostering young minds. Born in Guatemala City, Miriam embarked on her teaching journey in her home country before venturing to the United States. She pursued extensive childhood development education at Los Angeles City College, honing her skills and - [Theresa Ganser](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/staff-profile/theresa-ganser/) - Theresa returned to the Midwest after spending a decade and more out West in Arizona and California. After studying Humanities and Documentary Film, she found her way as a Creative Director and Curator in Los Angeles, CA. Now, as a Mother of a Habitat kid, she is inspired by assisting the school and community to - [Erika Kambs](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/staff-profile/erika-kambs/) - Erika attended Luther College in Decorah, Iowa, earning Bachelor of Arts degrees in Philosophy and Spanish. Erika has a diverse background and many years of experience in nonprofit leadership and project management. Prior to joining A Children’s Habitat in 2022, Erika served as the Executive Director for Wabash County Habitat for Humanity. Erika brings firsthand experience ## Board Profiles - [Carl Duncan](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/board-profile/carl-duncan/) - Carl Duncan is an ACH parent and joins the Board of Trustees as a Member at Large. He and his wife Amanda have been part of the ACH community since 2023. Their son Henry (5) attended the Toddler and Primary programs, and their daughter Colleen (3) is currently in the Primary program. Carl is a - [Available](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/board-profile/available/) - [Elyse Handel](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/board-profile/elyse-handel/) - Elyse Handel is the Early Childhood Education Manager at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis and received her degree in Early Middle Childhood Education with Mild Intervention Certification from Butler University 2011. Elyse taught in the museum’s Preschool for 9 years incorporating the beliefs of Dr. Maria Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and Project-Based Learning. Elyse firmly believes - [Eric Dosmann](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/board-profile/eric-dosmann/) - [Sara Holtz](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/board-profile/sara-holtz/) - Throughout her career, Sara has served as a strategic partner to executive leadership and business owners, ensuring organizational goals are translated into seamless execution. Her professional background is a unique blend of project management, marketing operations, and executive support. Having worked across diverse industries and from large-scale global organizations to fast-paced agencies, Sara excels at - [Susan Michal](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/board-profile/susan-michal/) - [Drew Young](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/board-profile/drew-young/) - [Kylea Asher](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/board-profile/kylea-asher/) - With more than two decades of teaching, educational and non-profit leadership, and coaching experience, Kylea has a deep passion for personal and organizational development. She holds a summa cum laude degree from Emory University, an MA in education from Antioch University–Santa Barbara, and a PhD in education from Indiana University–Bloomington. A master-certified life coach with - [Scott Harvey](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/board-profile/scott-harvey/) - Scott and his wife, Elyse, have two daughters, the eldest of whom attend A Children's Habitat, and two dogs, Posie and Sully. This is their second year as a Habitat family and they cannot imagine a better suited school for their family. The teachers, staff, students, and families have been a loving community which Scott - [Gina Armer](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/board-profile/gina-armer/) - [Erika Kambs](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/board-profile/erika-kambs/) - Erika joined A Children’s Habitat in 2022. She attended Luther College in Decorah, Iowa, earning Bachelor of Arts degrees in Philosophy and Spanish. She has a diverse background and many years of experience in nonprofit leadership and project management, most recently serving as the Executive Director for Wabash County Habitat for Humanity. Erika brings firsthand ## Job Openings - [Building Aide & Aftercare Supervisor](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/job-opening/building-aide-aftercare-supervisor/) - A Children’s Habitat Montessori is seeking a warm, flexible, and responsive Building Aide & Aftercare Supervisor to provide direct student support during key portions of the school day and lead our aftercare program. This dynamic role works with students ages 18 months through 12 years and is ideal for someone who enjoys working with children, - [Aftercare Teacher](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/job-opening/aftercare-teacher/) - A Children's Habitat is eager to welcome a new aftercare assistant to our team. This position will engage and care for students ages 3-12 years at the end of the school day through the 10-month academic year. Ideal candidates will thoroughly enjoy children while maintaining a safe, active environment, both indoors and out, and communicating - [Substitute Teachers](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/job-opening/job-2/) - We are always looking for substitute teachers! A Children's Habitat seeks passionate educators who support a learning environment where children are joyful, confident, respected, and respectful. A great fit is an individual who thrives on being part of a team and communicating positively and effectively, through flexibility and creativity. ## Montessori Resourcess - [Neinhuis](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/montessori-resource/neinhuis/) - Bring the Montessori method to life with Neinhuis Montessori materials and toys. Trusted by schools since 1929. Shop a complete range of meticulously crafted Montessori materials. - [For Small Hands](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/montessori-resource/for-small-hands/) - For Small Hands is exactly that, a resource for materials designed for small hands. This company provides an easy and cost-effective way to find specialized items used in Montessori Classrooms that families can translate to their homes. Delight young children with real tools to handle real tasks all by themselves, and all available in one - [Trillium Montessori](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/montessori-resource/trillium-montessori/) - Trillium Montessori is home to the Montessori experiments and collections of AMS-certified Montessori Guide, Seemi Abdullah. Here, parents can find a wealth of resources from blogs and podcasts, to printables and online courses. While Trillium Montessori focuses on a homeschool ideal, we find this site to be a valuable resource for ongoing Montessori engagement for - [American Montessori Society (AMS)](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/montessori-resource/american-montessori-society-ams/) - The American Montessori Society is a hub for all things Montessori: an information center for over 18,000 members, the media, and the public; a voice in the public policy arena; and a mobilizing force for the global Montessori community, through support services, research, and professional development events. They are the world's leading member organization advancing - [Montessori Services](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/montessori-resource/montessori-services/) - Montessori Services is a resource for preparing the child's environment, and is the parent company for For Small Hands. Montessori Services has been selling classroom-quality materials since 1976. Here you can browse materials used inside our classrooms for a better understanding of why specific materials are used and how that can translate to your home. ## News - [#IndyMontessori Speaker Series, March 23, 2023](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/new/press-article-2/) - Scaffold to Success: The Art and Science of Individualization in the Elementary Classroom. The annual #IndyMontessori Speaker Series is hosted by A Children’s Habitat Montessori, the longest, continuously running Montessori school in Indianapolis, welcomes Jessica Davis Thursday, Mar. 23 at a free, public #indymontessori Speaker Series set for 6:30 p.m. at the Indianapolis Art Center - [Indy's Child School Guide](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/new/press-article/) - [Follow The Child](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/new/press-article-3/) - Traditionally, educators teach students grade-leveled subjects and report progress through a pre-determined specific curriculum. Dr. Kylea Asher-Smith, head of school at A Children’s Habitat Montessori School in Indianapolis, says that following the child is imperative to every facet of learning. ## Docs and Forms - [Strategic Plan](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/doc-form/strategic-plan-2025-2030/) - Our 2025–2030 Strategic Plan outlines the shared vision, priorities, and goals that will guide A Children’s Habitat Montessori School over the next five years. Developed with input from our faculty and staff, current families, and alumni community, the plan reflects our collective hopes for the continued growth and strength of our school. - [Background Check Forms](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/doc-form/background-check-forms/) - All volunteers and staff must have a completed, cleared background check on file with Habitat. Habitat runs all background checks, and they are free and confidential. Once the forms are filled out, please send them to our Director of Operations, Cassie, to be processed. - [Community Handbook](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/doc-form/community-handbook/) - Guiding directives, expectations, and policies for our Habitat community. - [2026-2027 Back to School Packet](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/doc-form/2026-27-back-to-school-packet/) - The back to school packet includes important date and policy reminders; a car line map and instructions for drop off and pickup; a volunteer hours overview; and classroom supply lists for the year. - [2026-2027 Toddler Supply List](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/doc-form/2026-27-toddler-supply-list/) - [2026-2027 Primary Supply List](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/doc-form/2026-27-primary-supply-list/) - [2026-2027 Upper Elementary Supply List](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/doc-form/2026-27-upper-elementary-supply-list/) - [2026-2027 Lower Elementary Supply List](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/doc-form/2026-27-lower-elementary-supply-list/) - [2026-2027 Financial Aid Worksheet](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/doc-form/financial-aid-worksheet/) - A worksheet that can be used to help fill out the 2026-2027 TADS Financial Aid application. - [2026-2027 Academic Calendar](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/doc-form/academic-calendar/) - This is our academic calendar for the 2026-2027 school year. It lists days off, staff professional development days, and other important information. - [A Children's Habitat Bylaws](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/doc-form/a-childrens-habitat-bylaws/) - Amended and restated bylaws of A Children's Habitat, Inc. in completion. ## Media Images - [Image 9](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/media-image/image-9/) - [Image 14](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/media-image/image-14/) - [Image 15](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/media-image/image-15/) - [Image 3](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/media-image/image-3/) - [Image 16](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/media-image/image-16/) - [Image 4](https://www.childrens-habitat.org/media-image/image-4/)