Primary
Shaista Hasan
Head Montessori Teacher (Primary)
Ms. Shaista has always enjoyed working with children for over a decade. Her journey began in 2013 when she started working toward her Associates in Early Childhood & Development from Houston Community College. In 2017 she began working in a Montessori environment and she was inspired to earn her certification. Ms. Shaista is certified by the American Montessori Society and has earned a Bachelor’s in Psychology, English literature and Economics. Ms. Shaista received her teaching credentials from Houston Community College and then Irvine Valley College. Recently, Ms. Shaista began working towards a Business Administration Certification in University of California Irvine. As a mother, Ms. Shaista understands how challenging it is to raise a child in a balanced way. She really appreciates all the parents who are so involved in their child’s education. Ms. Shaista always has a very open line of communication with parents and plans her lessons in such a way that can keep children engaged and learning at the same time.
Estefany Sanchez
Assistant Teacher
Ms. Estefany Sanchez was born and raised in Orange County. She had attended North West College to become a Medical Assistant. Ms. Estefany decided to switch careers and become a teacher’s assistant because she enjoys helping and teaching others. She is currently attending Theoria Technical college to receive her training in Early Childhood Education. Ms. Estefany loves spending time with her 3 wonderful daughters. Her favorite hobbies are arts and crafts, puzzles, reading and watching movies.
Farheen Khan
Head Montessori Teacher (Primary)
Ms. Farheen Khan received her Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Pakistan and has earned a certificate in Montessori education from the University of California, Irvine. She also studied early childhood education at Santa Ana College. Ms. Khan completed her AMI Montessori training in the Primary level from the Montessori Institute of San Diego and worked as a Junior Teacher before taking on the role of Head Teacher. Ms. Khan has been with LePort Orchard Hills since it opened has maintained an enthusiasm for the Montessori pedagogy from day one. In her free time, Ms. Kahn enjoys reading, traveling, and spending time with her family.
Yeeun Moon
Assistant Teacher
Ms. Yeeun is a native Korean, who has had many experiences living and traveling to other countries. After attending high school in New Zealand, she returned to Korea and taught children for 15 years. After being married, she felt compelled to become an educator. Ms. Yeeun had a strong interest in Montessori philosophy. During the pandemic, Ms Yeeun had to return to Korea, where she researched the top Montessori schools in Korea. Ms. Yee-un aspired to introduce Montessori pedagogy to Korean parents by opening a Montessori school after studying their systems and observing children. Ms. Yeeun returned to California to join the LePort family, with a focus on Infant and Toddler Montessori philosophy.
Sophia Rusaw
Head Montessori Teacher (Primary)
Ms. Sophia was born and raised in Massena, New York. She earned her Bachelor's of Arts in Early Childhood Education and her Master's of Science in Special Education from The State University of New York at Potsdam. Ms. Sophia has always had a passion for working with children and becoming a teacher. She has previously worked as a recreational leader and has volunteered in many different classrooms. Ms. Sophia is currently enrolled in The Center for Guided Montessori Studies to get her Primary Montessori Certification. In Ms. Sophia's free time, she enjoys being outdoors and spending time with friends and family. She also enjoys traveling to new places any chance she gets!
Amanda Marin
Assistant Teacher
Ms. Amanda was born and raised in Orange County. She has studied at Child Development at Santiago Canyon College. Ms. Amanda has experience in many after school programs, as well as observing different classroom settings. She has always had a strong passion for working with young children, and watching them grow. When she first observed the Montessori method, she was amazed by the philosophy & wanted to continue gaining experience. When not at work, Ms. Amanda loves to spend time with her two dogs and family. She also loves playing softball with friends.
Dilusha Gunaratne
Head Montessori Teacher (Primary)
Ms. Dilusha's life story reflects a rich blend of cultural experiences and a commitment to education. Born and raised in Sri Lanka, she has a deep connection to her roots. Her educational journey spans both Sri Lanka and the United States, showcasing a diverse and well-rounded academic background. With over 20 years of experience as an Association Montessori Internationale trained teacher Ms. Dilusha brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role. Her passion for helping the needy is evident through her active involvement in various charitable organizations. As a mother, Ms. Dilusha not only brings professional expertise but also a personal understanding of the dynamics of raising and nurturing a child into adulthood.
Ms. Dilusha believes in the importance of education and is dedicated to providing a nurturing and stimulating environment for her students. She is known for her patience, creativity, and love for teaching. Her goal is to inspire her students to become independent thinkers and lifelong learners. As a member of the team at LePort Montessori, Ms. Dilusha's unique blend of experiences, dedication, and passion for education is sure to leave a lasting imprint on the educational journey of her students.
Ms. Dilusha believes in the importance of education and is dedicated to providing a nurturing and stimulating environment for her students. She is known for her patience, creativity, and love for teaching. Her goal is to inspire her students to become independent thinkers and lifelong learners. As a member of the team at LePort Montessori, Ms. Dilusha's unique blend of experiences, dedication, and passion for education is sure to leave a lasting imprint on the educational journey of her students.