Ms. Carmen

Ms. Carmen’s path to Montessori education began in a very different world. After earning her B.A. in Media Communications from Hunter College, she began a career in corporate America, starting as an intern and eventually managing a digital video editing and satellite feeds department for nearly 10 years. During that time, she also earned her Master’s degree in Media Studies.

The birth of her first child changed everything. Commuting to New York City and spending so much time away from her son made Carmen realize that she wanted a career—and a life—that allowed her to be more present with her family while doing something she truly loved.

Carmen had always been drawn to working with children. She believes children are capable of far more than we sometimes realize and deserve the same respect, patience, and dignity that adults expect for themselves.

When she discovered the Montessori Method, its philosophy immediately resonated with her own beliefs about children. With the support of her husband, Carmen made the leap from a successful corporate career to education, beginning as a Montessori assistant while completing her AMS Montessori Primary Teacher Certification. It was a decision she has never regretted.

On January 5, 2015, Carmen turned another dream into reality when she opened The Peace Rose Montessori School. Her youngest child, Valentina, was the school’s very first student.

Today, Carmen is the proud mother of three children, all of whom began their educational journeys in Montessori environments. Over the years, they have also become part of The Peace Rose family—helping with art projects, After Care, summer camp, and occasionally lending a hand when home from school. Her oldest, Armando, is now a senior at MIT, and her children continue to share their mom’s love for the school and its students.

More than a decade after opening The Peace Rose, Carmen still finds herself learning from her students every day. She feels blessed to be part of “Guiding Tomorrow’s Future,” working alongside her dedicated staff and families to create an environment where children feel respected, confident, independent, and excited to learn.

One of Carmen’s favorite songs growing up was Whitney Houston’s Greatest Love of All. Its message—that children are our future and that we must help them recognize the beauty and potential within themselves—continues to reflect the heart of her work today.

Schedule a tour and meet Ms. Carmen while experiencing the Montessori environment she dreamed of creating for children and families.