
Our Teaching Community
Highland’s teachers are experienced, knowledgeable, and deeply committed to children. They bring professional training together with genuine warmth, creating classrooms where curiosity is encouraged, relationships are valued, and every child feels seen and supported.

School Director
Molly Hanlon
Ms. Molly holds a degree in Child Development with an emphasis in Early Childhood Education, Montessori training through MTEC, and formal Reggio Emilia training in Italy through Reggio Children. She is completing her Master’s in Educational Administration, further strengthening her expertise in leading early childhood programs. With more than a decade of hands-on experience as Highland’s Director, Molly combines academic knowledge with deep professional practice, shaping an inclusive, child-centered environment that supports both children and educators.

Assistant Director
Júlia Ritort
Ms. Julia holds a bachelor’s degree in Translation and Interpreting from Pompeu Fabra University in Barcelona, along with additional coursework in Child Development completed in the United States. She brings more than 15 years of experience in education, beginning her career as a teacher in Spain before serving as Academic Manager at her school for four years. Since joining Highland in 2020, she has drawn on both her international perspective and ongoing professional growth to enrich her work with children.

Lead Preschool Teacher
Heidi Rivas
Ms. Heidi holds an Associate’s degree in Child Development, a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, and formal Montessori training. She pairs this academic foundation with years of classroom experience and is now in her third year at Highland. Heidi is especially skilled at fostering independence and confidence in young children, shaping environments where curiosity and connection naturally flourish.

Lead Toddler Teacher
Ana Castro
Ms. Ana earned her Montessori Credential in 2017 and her degree in Child and Adolescent Development from San Francisco State University. With nearly a decade of teaching experience, she has built a strong reputation for guiding toddlers with both structure and compassion. A former Montessori child herself, Ana blends her unique insight into the method with her broader training in early childhood development, creating calm, joyful classrooms where curiosity and independence thrive.

Lead Transitional Kindergarten Teacher
Sarah Crellin
Ms. Sarah holds an M.A. in Education with a concentration in learning theory and technology and brings over eight years of classroom teaching experience. She is highly skilled in creating student-centered, flexible lessons grounded in Universal Design for Learning, ensuring every child can access and engage with the curriculum. Her approach highlights voice, choice, and confidence, empowering children to understand themselves as learners while building strong academic and social foundations.

Associate Preschool Teacher
Cyrley Rivas
Ms. Cyrley has completed extensive coursework in Child Development and continues her academic studies while teaching at Highland. She brings over seven years of classroom experience and has been part of the Highland team since 2021. Known for her engaging storytelling, creative circle times, and consistently positive energy, she cultivates classrooms filled with imagination and joy.

Associate Toddler Teacher
Jazmil Marquez Pulido
Ms. Jazmil holds a degree in Public Health, along with additional coursework in Child Development. She has more than a decade of experience working with young children through daycare teaching, enrichment programs, and private childcare. Known for her patience and calm under pressure, she creates secure and engaging classroom environments where toddlers can explore and grow with confidence.