Board of Directors
Toni Garza - President & CEO
Toni is an experienced educator with a background in public school teaching, instructional coaching, professional development facilitation, curriculum writing and nonprofit strategy and business development. Toni is most passionate about the teaching profession and ensuring that educators are not only supported but excited about the work they are doing.
As the Director of Training & Events for an Edtech company, Toni traveled across the country speaking at conferences, hosting workshops and coaching teachers in their classrooms. Through this experience, she was able to gain a deeper understanding of how to engage teachers and keep them motivated. In addition to teaching, Toni also has an MBA and utilizes it to further her career within the education nonprofit sector.
The Montessori philosophy resonates deeply with Toni as she sees her own children thrive in this environment. She is determined to spread the message of Montessori to her community so that more future teachers and families can benefit from this experience.
Magaly Rodriguez - Vice President
Magaly brings more than 22 years of experience in Montessori and early childhood education to her role as Vice President of the Board. A University of Houston alumna and American Montessori Society-certified educator, she is the founder and owner of Paloma Montessori School in San Marcos, Texas, where she leads a thriving learning community serving children from eight weeks through six years of age.
Throughout her career, Magaly has been a dedicated advocate for authentic Montessori education and the transformative power of lifelong learning. She is passionate about supporting and empowering educators through professional development, mentorship, and leadership opportunities, believing that investing in adult learners strengthens educational outcomes for children and communities alike.
Her commitment to educational excellence, collaborative leadership, and service makes her a valuable contributor to the organization’s mission of advancing Montessori education and developing future educational leaders.
Michelle Cole - Treasurer
Michelle brings a distinguished record of leadership and public service to her role as Treasurer of the Board of Directors. A retired U.S. Army veteran Michelle developed a strong foundation in organizational management, strategic planning, and operational excellence throughout her military career.
She went on to serve as an Operations Manager with TNTP, a national nonprofit dedicated to educational equity, further deepening her commitment to mission-driven organizations.
Michelle holds a Master of Public Administration and is currently pursuing a doctorate in Educational Leadership, reflecting her dedication to advancing effective and equitable educational systems. Her unique blend of military discipline, nonprofit operations experience, and academic expertise in education makes her a valuable asset to the board as it works to support and sustain a thriving Montessori learning community.
Jennifer Katz - Secretary
As a proud parent of two Montessori educated children, Jennifer brings a parent centered perspective to her role as the Secretary of the Board of Directors. A former public school educator, she has first hand experience in the classroom as well the understanding that education should not be one size fits all.
Jennifer holds an MA in Secondary Education and while she is no longer in the classroom, she uses those skills in her current role as Secretary.

