Faculty

I, Beatriz Burgess have been working with children in Montessori schools in the area since 2002 beginning as an assistant in primary classroom.  After studying Early Childhood Education at Florida International University and attended the Montessori Academy at Edison Lakes and IUSB where I received her AMS certification in 2003.  I have had experience since high school in a 3-6 classroom, in both half and full-day Montessori programs. I’ve lived in the LaPorte County area since 2001, married and mother of two daughters. I have over 20 years of experience in Montessori classrooms starting in Florida during my high school years.  I’ve always had a plan to have my own Montessori School and the time came to make it a reality. In 2018, Discover & Explore Montessori Preschool, INC. opened its doors to the community. Outside of school I enjoys camping, hiking and spending time with my family & friends. 

Codey Stewart is the second all-day primary classroom teacher assistant at Discover & Explore Montessori preschool since 2023. During the summer of 2024 she completed her Montessori teacher assistant training. Codey returned to college in the fall of 2023 to complete her early child education courses.    She lives in La Porte with her 2 children Mathyus & Qorah. When she is not busy teaching or going to school herself, she enjoys going to the beach with her children and hanging out with friends.

Laken Byers is the all-day primary classroom teacher assistant at Discover & Explore Montessori Preschool since 2021. During the summer of 2022 she completed her Montessori teacher assistant training. Laken is the oldest of five siblings. Lives in LaPorte with her son Evan. Since high school she has had an interest in early childhood education & since an early age she has developed a love for children. During her junior and senior year in high school she was an assistant to her language arts teacher & worked in the La Porte High school preschool. She also took child development classes while in high school.  Outside of school she enjoys drawing, gardening, and spending time with her large family.