Get to know Cristina
As a former public school student, I deeply value free, quality education for all. However, I believe the traditional model—designed to train factory workers—often hinders the true development of children and humanity. Over the past 25 years as a committed Montessori practitioner, I’ve witnessed how Montessori education provides a powerful, proven framework for transformation, empowering children to guide their own development while inspiring adults to reflect, learn, develop and transform alongside them.
I’m a native New Yorker with a BA in Philosophy from Boston University, a degree that has shaped my path of inquiry and exploration, both inward and outward. After years of developing a sense of mindfulness through my work in Montessori and the teachings of Thich Nhat Hahn which I was drawn to I went on to earn a Masters in Mindfulness in Scotland to deepen my practice and understanding. I hold AMI certifications from birth to 18 years, Inclusive Education training, and additional qualifications in mindfulness, Ayurveda, and yoga. All of which align well with Montessori and have aided in my Montessori practice. My work through Torre di Montessori reflects my commitment to nurturing the development and spirit of children and adults.
For years, I’ve worked as an independent consultant in Montessori schools, cooperatives, and homes, specializing in spiritual preparation, reflective practices, and the power of presence for adults. This has been a natural extension of my deep work with children, offering a way to support adults in creating nurturing environments where the development of the whole child can flourish. I’ve also contributed to AMI teacher training programs, served as a coach and mentor to teachers, and worked as an Education Analyst for the Joe Torre Safe at Home Foundation, where I helped implement domestic violence prevention programs in schools.
Dr. Montessori’s wisdom—that “the real preparation for education is the study of one’s self”—has been a guiding force for me. I believe that true change begins within. When adults commit to ongoing self-reflection and spiritual preparation, we are better able to learn from children, who are our greatest teachers. In prepared environments where both adults and children thrive, we open the door to transformation—within ourselves, our communities, and society as a whole.
“I did not invent a method of education, I simply gave some little children a chance to live.”
Maria Montessori
Credentials
Montessori
AMI Certificate in Inclusive Education -Montessori Institute of San Diego (2019)
AMI Certificate in Orientation to Adolescent Studies, Sweden (2014)
AMI Diploma in Assistants to Infancy, The Montessori Institute, Denver (2012)
AMI Diploma in 6-12 years, The Montessori College, Dublin, Ireland (2001)
AMI Diploma in Casa di Bambini, 3-6 years, The Montessori College, Dublin, Ireland (1998)
Mindfulness- Yoga- Ayurveda
MSc in Mindfulness - University of Aberdeen (2019)
200 hr Yoga Alliance Yoga Teacher Training, Sewall House, Maine (2016)
50 hr Yin Yoga, Corina Benner (2016)
300 hr Yoga and Ayurveda Teacher Training at Kripalu- IN PROCESS