Three educators from Children’s House Montessori School were among others celebrated as part of a statewide spotlight on inspiring early childhood professionals during the Week of the Young Child in April, 2026

Lourdes Martinez, Elise Young, and Sam Miller were among the honorees recognized by the Maine Department of Education’s Early Learning Team and the Office of Child and Family Services’ Early Care and Education Division during this week, which is a time dedicated to recognizing the importance of early learning and the educators who nurture and guide young children each day.

Teachers were nominated by their colleagues and families in their early childhood education programs.

"Each of the Children's House Montessori teachers brings deep care, experience, and joy to their classrooms," said CHMS, in a news release.

CHMS shared the following quotes:

• Lourdes Martinez, Lead Primary Teacher, shares, “Working with small children is the best job in the world. I can’t be impartial about it—I’ve been teaching since 1981. Working with children means having faith that the future will be bright, and that today is made better by being surrounded by so much kindness.”
  
  

• Elise Young, Lead Toddler Teacher, reflects, “It is such a gift to work with young children. I am constantly drawn back to the present moment and inspired by the joy and wonder that I witness. The future is truly in good hands, and quality early childhood education is a pathway to a peaceful world.”
  
  

• Sam Miller, Lead Toddler Teacher, adds, “I love being along each child’s learning journey. To follow each child’s interests and witness their innate desire and curiosity to learn is such a gift.”
  
  

"Children’s House is proud to be part of a statewide community of educators dedicated to supporting young children during their most formative years," said CHMS. "Rooted in the Montessori philosophy, the school emphasizes independence, curiosity, and respect for each child’s unique development."

“We’re honored to see our teachers celebrated alongside so many inspiring professionals from across the state of Maine,” said Rachel Nixon, Head of School at Children’s House Montessori. “This recognition reflects the care, connection, and intention that early childhood educators bring to their work every day.”

Children’s House Montessori School joins families and communities across Maine in celebrating the Week of the Young Child and the vital role early childhood education plays in building a strong and hopeful future.

Children’s House Montessori has provided high-quality, hands-on early childhood education in Midcoast Maine since 1979. As an independent, non-profit school, CHMS’ mission is to inspire curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking in young learners, while nurturing a sense of care for each other, the environment, and the world. Children’s House serves children ages 18 months through third grade.