Carly Grote – Preschool/Kindergarten (Head Teacher)

Carly is the Head teacher for the Lavender classroom. She has been with DVMS since the 2018-19 school year, when she began working in the Lavender classroom as a Teaching Assistant. She holds a Montessori credential for primary age and will be receiving her Master’s degree in Montessori Education and Leadership this year. Carly enjoys singing, dancing, arts & crafts, raising stick bugs, spending time with her dog Ruby, and of course, working with children!

Alma Sanchez –Preschool/Kindergarten (Lead Teacher)

Born and raised in Mexico, Alma Sanchez is a dedicated and hard-working Teacher’s Assistant. Being a mother of three, she developed a passion to work with and help young children. Aspiring to pursue her passion, Alma earned her Montessori, Early Childhood teaching credential in 2023. Along the way, she has taught Spanish for 13 years at local elementary schools. Alma joined DVMS in 2011 and is currently the Lead Teacher in our Lavender classroom. Aside from work, she enjoys hiking, dancing, traveling and visiting her family in Mexico.

Uma Lokavarupu – Preschool/Kindergarten (Assistant teacher)

Uma has a Bachelor of Arts degree. The experience of volunteering in her son’s preschool sparked an interest to pursue childhood education. Uma completed an Associates Teacher Certification and has been teaching in Montessori schools since 2014. She loves interacting with the children, helping them learn. In her spare time, Uma enjoys gardening, yoga and taking walks.