Background: Hi, I’m Tedi Plate. I grew up in Southern California and have lived in New York for 14 years, where I've truly found my home. I began my journey with Little Garden Montessori as a parent, witnessing firsthand the positive impact the school had on my son. This inspired me to join LGM and assist with back-of-house duties. I handle parent communication, finances, marketing, sales, and any other needs the school may have. My focus is growing LGM so that more can experience what makes LGM such a special place and special community. I firmly believe in the power of the community we’ve built at LGM and take great pride in supporting it in every way I can.

Best Advice: The best piece of advice I’ve ever received is, "It is better to have failed than to have not tried." As a parent of LGM-aged children, I wish I had known that everyone else is also looking for community. Putting yourself out there can be scary but incredibly rewarding, and your village will come if you do.

Inspiration: The most inspiring part of working at Little Garden Montessori is watching the children’s love for each other. They create a remarkable community within the classroom, supporting, celebrating, and helping each other through successes and failures.

Traditional vs. Montessori: Though I’m not a teacher and haven't been one, as someone who grew up in a traditional school and as a parent, I can see the clear benefits of Montessori education. The children take care of themselves and each other, building foundations of community, empathy, and self-confidence. They take pride in their classroom and their school, learning how to learn—a foundation that fosters lifelong learning.

Favorite Part of Working with Kids: I don't often get to be in the classroom, but I frequently interact with the children and get to know them. My favorite part is the conversations I have with them; they say remarkably funny and wise things. When these kids take the time to chat with you and ask about your day, it is impossible not to smile, even on the worst of days.

Message to Parents: I want every Little Garden Montessori parent to know that we are here to support you through this stage of life. Use the community we’ve built—make connections, organize playdates, attend events. This is how you can make this community work for you. As a parent, I’ve learned that I can't do this alone. Embracing the community will make parenting easier and bring greater happiness to your parenting and life in general.