Primary Directress | Cherry Blossom Classroom | Absorbent Minds Montessori School
Tonya Shaw serves as the Primary Directress and a Montessori preschool teacher at Absorbent Minds Montessori School in Stow, Ohio, where she leads the Cherry Blossom Classroom. With a degree in Early Childhood Education, Montessori certification for ages 3–6, and experience in both classroom teaching and school administration, Tonya brings a strong understanding of early childhood development to her classroom. She believes every child is unique and capable, and she loves creating an environment where children can discover their strengths, build independence, and develop a genuine love of learning.
Early Childhood & Montessori Education
Tonya earned her Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Kent State University. During her studies, she discovered how much she loved working with preschool-aged children and became increasingly drawn to the Montessori approach to education.
In 2013, Tonya continued her professional training by earning her Montessori certification for children ages 3–6 through the North American Montessori Center.
Her Montessori training strengthened her belief that young children thrive when education respects their individual development. Rather than expecting every child to learn in the same way or at the same pace, Tonya values an environment that allows each student to grow from his or her own unique starting point.
Experience in the Classroom & Administration
Before joining Absorbent Minds, Tonya spent six years as a lead teacher in a Montessori preschool classroom. She later moved into educational administration, where she spent four years working in both preschool and Head Start environments.
Her administrative experience gave Tonya a broader perspective on early childhood education, family partnerships, child development, and the many pieces that work together to support a successful school community.
Although she appreciated the challenges and opportunities of administration, Tonya continued to feel drawn to direct work with children. Ultimately, she knew her heart remained in the classroom.
Finding Her Home at Absorbent Minds
Tonya joined the Absorbent Minds Montessori School community in the fall of 2019. Returning to the Montessori classroom felt like coming home.
As the Primary Directress of the Cherry Blossom Classroom, Tonya guides children through some of the most formative years of their development. She enjoys getting to know each child individually and creating opportunities that encourage independence, confidence, concentration, curiosity, and academic growth.
Her years in both teaching and administration also give her a valuable perspective when partnering with families and supporting children throughout their Montessori journey.
Helping Children Discover a Love of Learning
One of the things Tonya values most about Montessori education is its individualized approach.
She strongly believes that every child is unique and wonderfully talented. In the prepared Montessori environment, children have opportunities to discover their interests and abilities while developing the skills they need to become increasingly independent learners.
For Tonya, some of the most rewarding classroom moments happen when children recognize their own growth. Watching a child master something that once felt difficult—and seeing the pride and confidence that follows—is one of her favorite parts of teaching.
Her goal is not simply to teach children academic skills. She hopes to help each child discover a lasting passion for learning and confidence in what they are capable of accomplishing.
Beyond the Classroom
Tonya lives in Kent, Ohio, with her husband, who is also an educator, and their two children.
As a family, they love spending time outdoors, especially hiking and camping. They have even set a family goal of visiting every National Park together!
Tonya is grateful to combine her passion for early childhood education with the Montessori philosophy she loves and to share those experiences with the children and families of the Absorbent Minds Montessori School community.
Interested in learning more about Montessori preschool and kindergarten at AMMS? Visit our Primary Program page or schedule a tour.