Kind Words

“It is hard to articulate the full extent of the contribution Cristina has made to our Montessori classes here on Paros during her brief two-month sojourn with us. There are so very many ways in which she has added to our Casa and Elementary programmes that it is impossible to list them all. Some of the gifts she brought us are tangible – the simple and beautiful additions to Practical Life – for example; some intangible – her insight, authenticity, grace, tranquility and quiet passion for her craft. She has opened our eyes to the profound beauty of each moment, giving us a glimpse into the infinite potential of our children. A master in creating the “prepared environment”, Cristina knows that this means far more than merely arranging the physical surroundings and the materials in the classroom, and she practiced daily to receive the children into the calm, expansive space she created for them, ready for each child to work to his or her full potential and personal fulfilment. She has generously shared her knowledge and wisdom with all of us, training and empowering our classroom assistants, and supporting and encouraging our community of parents. To say that we are grateful to her and that we will miss her is an understatement, but Cristina leaves behind a legacy of her experience, compassion and mindfulness which have enriched the classroom beyond measure. We will miss her, yes, but her presence will still be felt every day for a long time to come. And we certainly hope she will return to Paros when her schedule allows so she will have the chance to see how the seeds that she has sown here have grown and blossomed. Thank you, Cristina, for the perfect reciprocity of your time with us. We know that for all you have given us; you leave enriched as well by this experience.”

-Vicki Preston Linguakids Montessori Naoussa, Paros, February 2013