Hello! I’m so happy that you’re here. My name is Katie, and I am a parent, coach, professor, and educational researcher. I have spent the last decade and a half working with children, educators, families, and communities to build nurturing spaces that help children thrive. As a Montessori-trained educator who has worked with children from toddlerhood to adolescence, I have had the opportunity to combine intellectual knowledge with hands-on application.

I hope my work helps caregivers feel a little less alone, whether at home or in the classroom. I believe in meeting folks where they are and working directly with families, parents, and educators to build a plan that meets their needs. Need support with designing a Montessori environment? Wondering how to approach toilet independence? Want to explore your own parenting philosophy? Looking for help navigating discipline? I’m here to work as a thought partner, supporter, and sounding board.

In addition to being guided by Montessori principles, my trauma-informed approach is rooted in the belief that all human beings deserve the conditions necessary to flourish. I am deeply grateful to learn from the work of scholars and activists like bell hooks, adrienne maree brown, Trisha Moquino, Tiffany Jewell, and Britt Hawthorne.

In my free time, I enjoy cooking (my last name is Kitchens, after all!), hanging out with my beautiful child, power lifting with my partner, and starting a new craft project that I may or may not finish.

Education

Ph.D. in Education Studies, Leadership Studies Emphasis (Chapman University)

Primary (3-6) Montessori Credential, American Montessori Society

Elementary Montessori Credential (6-12), Association Montessori Internationale

Orientation to Adolescence (12-18), Association Montessori Internationale