About Our School

Water Willow Montessori is a micro-Montessori school serving children ages 3 to 6 and their families in the greater Baytown area. We are committed to providing an authentic Montessori education that nurtures the whole child—intellectually, emotionally, socially, and physically.

Rooted in the belief that every child deserves respect, our approach emphasizes hands-on learning, independence, and self-correction, all guided with care and intention by the adults in their environment. In addition to upholding core Montessori principles, we place emphasis on nature-based exploration and play. Our thoughtfully designed outdoor environment offers children meaningful opportunities to explore, discover, and engage with the natural world, fostering a deep appreciation for native biodiversity and ecological stewardship.

Two children drawing and working together

Our Teacher Leaders

Our team is united by a shared belief that every child deserves respect, intentional guidance, and the freedom to grow at their own pace. As AMS-credentialed Montessori guides, we bring diverse strengths and a deep commitment to inclusive, authentic Montessori education to the Baytown community.

Gigi Hutchison

Founding Teacher Leader, Primary Guide, Vice President of the Board

I am an AMS-credentialed Montessori teacher with six years of experience guiding children through the Montessori method. Fluent in Spanish, I enjoy connecting with children and families from diverse backgrounds. I grew up in Baytown, and it’s a dream come true to bring the first authentic Montessori school to my hometown. My passion for Montessori comes from its deep respect for the child and focus on independence, curiosity, and hands-on learning. I’m dedicated to creating a nurturing, engaging environment where each child can thrive. It’s an honor to serve this community and share the joy of Montessori education with Baytown families.

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Our Board

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Shannon Miftari

Tresurer

Shannon brings a decade of nonprofit experience working alongside committees and boards to support organizational growth and community impact, and holds an MBA and a Bachelor's in Biology. As a small business owner, he values the role local businesses play in strengthening communities. His daughter's years in Montessori school have deepened his appreciation for the philosophy and its impact on student development.

Sara Harlan

Secretary

Sara Harlan has been a Montessori lead teacher since 2001. She is currently a public school Montessori Teacher in Houston ISD. She not only works in the classroom with early childhood children, but also mentors adult Montessori learners through Gulf Coast Montessori. Sara brings a lot of teaching experience to Water Willow Montessori.

Erika Ohlhaver

Member

Erika Ohlhaver has been a Montessorian for over 4 and a half decades. She is currently the Director of Gulf Coast Montessori Teacher Education Center in Houston. Their programs provide Montessori training for both private and public programs for early childhood, elementary, and administration. She is also the curriculum director for ETC Montessori, a company that has been providing curriculum materials to classrooms for over 20 years.