FOUNDER, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Hello and welcome! I am thrilled to bring an authentic Montessori experience to Memphis. My Montessori journey began at the age of two when my mother enrolled me in The First Montessori of the Mid-South, sparking a lifelong passion for learning and education.

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Spring Hill College and a Master’s degree in Elementary Education from Loyola University Maryland. I am a trained Montessori guide and currently serve as President of the Board for the Montessori Alliance of Tennessee.

My husband Josh and I spent 27 years at the Maria Montessori School, where our son Paul also attended through Middle School. In 2022, we founded Midsouth Montessori to continue sharing authentic Montessori education with the Memphis community.

Montessori has shaped every stage of my life — as a student, parent, guide, and now Head of School — and I am grateful to continue this work with our community.

FOUNDER

Josh Campbell is a lifelong educator with over twenty years of experience in Montessori classrooms. As the director of The Maria Montessori Middle School in Memphis, TN, Josh developed a Montessori adolescent curriculum, which has become a model for urban Montessori adolescent programs around the country. Since moving to Memphis in 1999, Josh has been a tireless advocate for the city and the education of its young people.

PRIMARY GUIDE

I am thrilled to be a member of the Midsouth Montessori team. I have a passion for helping children learn and grow through lessons, play, and communication. In addition to being a Guide, I am also a Montessori parent and fully believe in the values and commitment to growth that MMC displays. I have a background in organic farming and enjoy sharing my passion of growing food with others. My husband and I live in Midtown and enjoy spending our weekends at Overton Park, the Farmer’s Market, and relaxing with our two children. I look forward to getting to know you and your kids and assisting in their learning journey!

PRIMARY ASSISTANT

Recently returning to my hometown of Memphis, I am thrilled to be part of the team at Midsouth Montessori Center. With a background in dance and theater, I love to bring creativity into the education setting. As a mother of two Montessori students, I am passionate about education that works for each child and encourages their own interests and passions. I have personally seen my children grow and thrive in the Montessori setting, and love to see the spark in children’s eyes when they are actively engaged in and enjoying learning.

ELEMENTARY GUIDE

I’m proud to be part of the Midsouth Montessori team and to contribute to a learning environment that supports curiosity, independence, and respect. With a background in finance and a strong interest in holistic living, I value both structure and creativity in the classroom. As a Montessori parent, I appreciate the thoughtful, child-centered approach that encourages students to grow at their own pace.

Outside of the classroom, I enjoy gardening, hands-on crafting, and spending quality time with my husband, mother, and daughter. Whether we’re in the garden or working on a project together, I find joy in learning alongside my family. I look forward to partnering with you to support your child’s journey in the Montessori community.

ELEMENTARY ASSISTANT

AFTERCARE GUIDE

Hi! I’m Kristian Charles, and I’m so excited to be working with MidSouth Montessori Center. I was born and raised right here in Memphis, and I love being part of the same community that helped shape who I am today. I’m passionate about helping children learn, grow, and feel confident in themselves. I especially love sharing my joy for reading and watching little minds light up with new stories and ideas. Most of my time is spent with my toddler, enjoying a good book with my fur baby, or soaking up all the fun and flavor Memphis has to offer.

VOLUNTEER

Hi, I'm Becky Novarese - Santina's mother. I'm a lifelong Memphian, Montessori parent, and now a proud Montessori grandparent. In my years of retirement, I enjoy spending time with my husband Steve of almost 40 years, my two wonderful and intelligent daughters, and three amazing grandchildren (one in college, a 5-year-old, and a 2-year-old). I'm so proud of Santina's years of dedication and hard work that have led her to this opportunity and grateful I can be here to support her and watch her flourish as head of school.

SUBSTITUTE

Hi, I’m Andy McDuffee. I was raised in Gallatin, TN, but now I call East Memphis home. I’m a graduate of UT Chattanooga, and I’m lucky to have two wonderful children who keep my life vibrant and full of joy. My son, Luca, is currently attending the Midsouth Montessori Center, where he’s thriving and exploring his interests. When I’m not spending time with my family or cheering on Luca’s latest adventures, I enjoy gardening, watching sports, and cooking.

FOUNDER AND DIRECTRESS OF OLIVIA’S MONTESSORI PRE-SCHOOL 1990 - 2022

My name is Amy “Olivia” Flasdick, and I am a certified Montessori Teacher (AMS). I founded Olivia's Montessori Pre-school in 1990 at this location with the desire to create a school I would have wanted to attend as a child. A Louisiana native from Mandeville, Louisiana I enjoy reading, plays, art exhibits, museums, folk art, bluegrass, and travel. What I wish for my students is that they love learning and that their curiosity to explore life never ends!