Alumni Stories
Alumni Spotlight: A Creative Journey Rooted in Montessori
Attended DVMS, 1977–1979
“All kids make art — I just never stopped.”
My time at Diablo Valley Montessori School in the late 1970s was brief but left a lasting impression. I attended preschool and kindergarten from 1977 to 1979, and those early years played an important role in shaping who I became. Even at age four and five, DVMS nurtured my curiosity, independence, and creativity — qualities that have proved central throughout my life and career.
In 1979, my parents let me make the big decision: start first grade at DVMS or start public school. This seems silly to me now, because being a child I chose public school, just to pal around with my neighborhood friends, as our public elementary was one block away.
DVMS necessitated a drive, but I enjoyed spending this extra time with my parents in the car. We’d usually pass by the Emeryville mudflat sculptures — which completely captured my imagination (I’d go on to make public art for a career). And on the ride home I could relate all that happened at school, or show off something I’d learned.
Today, I remain a strong believer in the Montessori method. A close friend even earned her doctorate in Montessori studies, so it’s still a part of my life and conversations. I’ve built a life and career centered around problem-solving, critical thinking, and creative exploration — and I continue to gravitate toward people who value those same things.
Looking back, I’m incredibly grateful for the foundation DVMS gave me and the encouragement I felt there in those early, formative years. It was a special time — one filled with imagination, kindness, and the freedom to be myself.
— Daev MOMO
daevmomo.com
Alumni Spotlight: How DVMS Shaped My Journey
DVMS Alumni (2009–2011)
DVMS didn’t just teach me academics—it taught me how to think for myself, solve problems creatively, and believe in my abilities. From studying finance to running my own digital services business, the foundation DVMS provided continues to guide me every day.
Attending Diablo Valley Montessori School (DVMS) was one of the most formative experiences of my educational journey, though at the time, as a young child, I didn’t realize its profound impact. Looking back, I see clearly how DVMS shaped not only my approach to learning but also how I think, solve problems, and navigate the world around me.
Unlike traditional education, which often tries to fit students into a standardized mold, DVMS celebrated individuality, encouraged critical thinking, and gave me the confidence to approach challenges with creativity and curiosity.
After graduating six months early from high school, I am now pursuing a degree at a university in Monaco. Encouraged by my Montessori teacher (Ms. Sharon), my childhood curiosity for numbers developed into the passion that guided my choice of university studies.
In addition to my academic path, I am thriving as an entrepreneur in digital services, a journey I attribute largely to the empowering education I received during my early years at DVMS. The confidence, creativity, and resilience that DVMS fostered have been essential to my ongoing success.
Rylen Salvi
rylensalvi
Entrepreneur | Resides in Monaco
