Staff Directory

DEPARTMENT(S)
Elementary Assistants

TITLE(S)
Lower Elementary Teacher

EDUCATION
Degree(s)
AMI Montessori Elementary Diploma, International Center for Montessori Studies Foundation, Bergamo, Italy, 2000
Kenyon College, B.A. Studio Art, 1998

OTHER INFORMATION

BIOGRAPHY

It was a month-long camping trip in the backwoods of Wyoming that led Karen McDonald to discover the Montessori method of education. Upon her return, she marveled at how much she had learned by being immersed in nature and thus began seeking out information on alternative forms of education that focused on hands-on learning. In 1999, Karen relocated from California to Cleveland and Hudson Montessori sponsored her to take her Montessori teacher training in Bergamo, Italy.  She is excited to be back at HMS where she began her teaching career as a Lower Elementary guide from 2000–2006. 

There were many years where Karen focused on being at home with her three children. During that time she pursued her love of teaching by becoming certified as a Pilates and GYROTONIC instructor. In addition to working out, Karen loves being outside, spending time with her dog, drawing and doing small watercolor paintings. 

Karen, her husband Nate, and their three children live in Chardon, Ohio where they support their children’s interests in sports, the arts and 4-H swine and cows. Growing up, their children attended local Montessori schools and they appreciate the unique character that each Montessori school has offered them. Karen has thoroughly enjoyed becoming reacquainted with Hudson Montessori and appreciates how it has evolved and changed since she first began her teaching career here.