About Us
Where Transformation Takes Flight
The reimagined beginning of Montessori Bilingual Academy of Rockledge
Montessori Bilingual Academy of Rockledge began its true transformation in 2020, when the school was reimagined with a renewed purpose and a higher standard for what early childhood education could be. What existed before was simply a starting point—MBAR emerged from that moment as a new vision entirely, shaped with intention, rebuilt with care, and designed to offer children an environment where learning feels joyful, natural, and deeply meaningful.
From the beginning, the academy was rebuilt around a clear commitment: to combine authentic Montessori methodology with immersive Spanish language learning, creating a space where children flourish academically, emotionally, and culturally. Classrooms were redesigned for independent exploration, the Spanish immersion program took root from the earliest ages, and the school’s culture shifted toward nurturing the whole child—mind, heart, and curiosity. Today, MBAR is known for its warm community, its intimate learning environment, and the way children grow in confidence as they discover their capabilities.
The monarch butterfly became the academy’s mascot during this transformation—a symbol chosen for its ability to represent growth, resilience, and the beauty of becoming. Like the monarch’s journey, a child’s development unfolds in stages, each one meaningful, each one guided by the right environment. At MBAR, the butterfly symbolizes the freedom to grow, the courage to explore, and the strength to rise into one’s potential.
This reimagined chapter was made possible by the vision of a leader who believed children deserved an elevated educational experience. Now, meet the founder who brought this vision to life and continues to guide MBAR’s growth and purpose.
The Heart Behind Our School
A Founder’s Journey
Mrs. Melissa bailey, M.S., PA-C
fOUNDER AND HEAD OF SCHOOL
AMS CERTIFIED
Mrs. Melissa Bailey, originally from Venezuela, founded Montessori Bilingual Academy of Rockledge (MBAR) in 2020 with a vision to create a place where children flourish through bilingual immersion and authentic Montessori learning.
A mother, Physician Assistant, and STEAM educator, she brings her expertise in science, medicine, STEM, and Spanish linguistics into engaging, hands-on lessons that strengthen problem-solving and spark curiosity. Driven by the belief that education creates opportunity, connection, and confidence, she continues to shape MBAR into a community where every child feels seen, supported, and inspired to explore—and when she’s not in the classroom, she’s proudly cheering as an ice-skating mom.
mrs. Paula hamill
DIRECTOR
AMS CERTIFIED
A Message from Our Director
Welcome to Montessori Bilingual Academy of Rockledge! I’m truly honored that you are taking the time to explore our school—a place where curiosity is nurtured, individuality is celebrated, and a love for learning begins.
For more than 16 years, education has been the most rewarding journey of my life. I am deeply passionate about building meaningful relationships with students and families, and I’m committed to creating an environment where every child can thrive. Each day, we have the privilege of guiding young minds as they grow into confident, bilingual learners—ready to embrace the world with curiosity, creativity, and independence. Our classrooms are filled with joyful exploration, hands-on learning, and the Montessori magic that makes every discovery feel like an adventure.
At Montessori Bilingual Academy, we believe every child deserves to feel seen, valued, and inspired. We welcome children ages 1 through 12 (up to 6th grade), and we take great care to ensure our program is the right fit for each student so they can learn, grow, and flourish.
I invite you to schedule a personal tour and experience the warmth and wonder of our community firsthand. We look forward to meeting your family and supporting your child’s unique journey.
With warmth and gratitude,
Paula Hamill
Director, Montessori Bilingual Academy of Rockledge
Administrator & Operations
Mrs. Claudia
ADMINISTRATOR Mrs. Claudia has over 15 years of experience working with children. She creates a warm, organized, and welcoming school environment where everyone feels supported and valued. Her favorite part about working with students is making them feel loved, protected, and encouraged. She finds joy in their smiles and in knowing they feel supported, safe, and cared for through every situation. She enjoys spending time with her family, serving in her church, and planning special events that celebrate others in a meaningful way.
Mrs. Jessica
DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS Mrs. Jessica serves as Head of Operations. Though she works off site, her leadership is felt daily through her steady presence, active engagement, and deep understanding of our school community. She has over six years of experience in the field of education and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology. Her areas of expertise include nonprofit management, leadership, and behavior analysis. During her free time she enjoys reading, gaming, and expressing her creativity through artistic projects.
Explore Our
Montessori Programs
and Meet Our Educators
Our educators are architects of dreams, sparks of curiosity, and guiding lights for every child’s growth. As mentors and champions, they tailor learning to each student’s readiness, fostering independence, hands-on mastery, and genuine curiosity instead of relying on traditional grades. With passion, creativity, and deep investment in each child’s journey, they partner with families to nurture every student’s unique success story.
Montessori Programs
Nido
First Steps Toward a Bilingual Future
Our Nido classroom serves children ages 12 to 30 months (1–2.5 years) in a warm, nurturing environment where learning begins through movement, language, and sensory exploration. Independence is gently encouraged through daily routines and meaningful experiences.
The classroom is a full Spanish immersion environment, allowing children to naturally absorb the language through songs, conversation, and everyday interactions.
Children develop foundational skills through:
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Montessori-inspired, hands-on exploration
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Fine and gross motor development
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Practical life activities such as pouring, cleaning, and self-care
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Early social-emotional learning
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Early bilingual language exposure and math awareness
Age Range: 12 – 30 months
Teacher-to-Student Ratio: 1:6
Maximum Class Size: 24
Mrs. Angie
NIDO | LEAD EDUCATOR | AMS CERTIFICATION IN PROGRESS Originally from Colombia, Mrs. Angie has three years of experience in early childhood education and has spent the past two and a half years at MBAR, growing professionally within the Montessori environment. She is currently undergoing Montessori training, and her expertise includes supporting independence, emotional development, and hands-on learning for children ages 1 to 21⁄2. Outside the classroom, she enjoys spending time outdoors and with her family. Simple moments like walking, exploring new places, or watching the sunset always recharge her energy.
Mrs. Arline
NIDO | ASSISTANT EDUCATOR Ms. Arline has six years of experience working with young children. She loves teaching Spanish, and her favorite part of working with them is watching them grow and begin speaking the language with confidence. She shares her love for crafts with her students and enjoys watching them have fun creating their own projects. Outside the classroom, she enjoys spending time with her family, going shopping, and getting fresh air while taking walks or visiting the park.
Mrs. Hortencia
NIDO | ASSISTANT EDUCATOR Mrs. Hortencia has two years of experience working with children and loves supporting their growth. Seeing them learn and progress each day reminds her that what she does truly matters. Her favorite part about working with students is seeing them learn and grow each day. She finds joy in knowing she can make a positive difference in their lives, even in small ways. Outside the classroom, she loves playing soccer and riding her bike.
Ms. Valeria
NIDO | ASSISTANT EDUCATOR Mrs. Valeria is a Registered Nurse with five years of experience in the field of education. Mrs. Valeria specializes in working with young children, guiding their Spanish language learning through sensory-rich, meaningful, and discovery-based experiences inspired by the Montessori approach. Inspired by her students’ creativity and love, Mrs. Valeria enjoys the beach, travel, and making memories beyond the classroom.
Ms. E
NIDO | READING SPECIALIST Mrs. E is our Reading Specialist with over 33 years of teaching experience. She’s a dedicated educator and a valued member of our MBAR family. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Elementary and Bilingual Education and an M.Ed. in Special Education. Mrs. E was born in Lansing, Michigan, and spent over 20 years working as a bilingual teacher in Houston, Texas. Mrs. E loves creating through arts and crafts and also enjoys baking, gardening, and embroidering, but her true passion is teaching!
Pre-Montessori
Building Confidence, Language, and Independence
Our Pre-Montessori classroom serves children ages 2.5 to 4 years in a full Spanish immersion environment where confidence, independence, and curiosity continue to grow. Building on the foundation established in Nido, children begin learning the core principles of the Montessori approach through hands-on exploration, order, and routine.
While students are not yet in the full three-hour work cycle, this stage gently prepares them for success in the Primary classroom by fostering focus, coordination, and a love for learning.
Children develop essential skills through:
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Continued Spanish immersion woven into daily classroom life
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Montessori-inspired, hands-on learning experiences
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Fine and gross motor skill development
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Practical life activities that build independence and responsibility
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Social-emotional growth through peer interaction and guided collaboration
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Early bilingual language literacy
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Early math exploration using concrete, hands-on materials
Age Range: 2.5 – 4 years
Teacher-to-Student Ratio: 1:8
Maximum Class Size: 24
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Mrs. Adriana
PRE-MONTESSORI | LEAD EDUCATOR | AMS CERTIFICATION IN PROGRESS Mrs. Adriana holds a Master’s in Education, a Bachelor’s in Pedagogy, and is currently pursuing her Montessori certification, with 27 years of teaching experience. Born and raised in Colombia, Mrs. Adriana worked for 15 years teaching Social Sciences, Spanish, and Ethics. Her area of expertise is teaching Spanish as a foreign language. Her favorite part about working with students is seeing every smile and their wonderful spontaneity. She loves learning from them each day and celebrating their achievements. Outside the classroom, she enjoys spending time with her family, going to the beach, and cherishing moments with God.
Ms. Andrea L.
PRE-MONTESSORI | CO-LEAD EDUCATOR Ms. Andrea L. has over three years of experience working with children and specializes in the Infant, Toddler, and Early Childhood age groups, focusing on children from birth to age six. She loves teaching language and finds it exciting to watch children recognize letter sounds and expand their vocabulary in both English and Spanish. She enjoys communicating with them in both languages and seeing their understanding grow. Outside the classroom, she loves painting, crafting for her students, and staying active through exercise.
Ms. Imelda
PRE-MONTESSORI | SPANISH EDUCATOR Ms. Imelda has six years of experience in private education, supporting children with developmental differences and unique learning needs. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Social Communication. She loves teaching Spanish in fun, meaningful ways and creating a warm, welcoming space where children grow with confidence. She enjoys adapting Montessori materials to each child’s unique rhythm and love of learning. She enjoys crafts, creative projects, beach days, and time outdoors with her loved ones.
Primary Montessori
Building Strong Foundations
Our Primary Montessori classrooms serve children ages 4 through 6, nurturing independence, concentration, and a lifelong love of learning. In this peaceful, thoughtfully prepared environment, children engage in purposeful work that supports their natural curiosity and growing confidence.
Through hands-on materials and guided exploration, students strengthen academic, social, and practical life skills while developing bilingual expression in both Spanish and English.
Children deepen their learning through:
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Montessori work cycles that support self-paced academic exploration
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Early reading and writing in Spanish and English
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Math mastery using authentic Montessori materials
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Hands-on science and cultural studies
Age Range: 4 – 6 years
Teacher-to-Student Ratio: 1:8
Maximum Class Size: 25
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Mrs. Linda
PRIMARY MONTESSORI | LEAD EDUCATOR | AMS CERTIFIED Mrs. Linda, originally trained in Business Administration, discovered her true calling after volunteering as a substitute at her son’s Montessori school. She now has more than 25 years of experience in education. Coming from a military family, she’s had the opportunity to teach in Germany, Virginia, Arkansas Colorado, and now Florida. During her free time, she runs competitively and has completed numerous marathons and half-marathons.
Ms. Toni
PRIMARY | ASSISTANT EDUCATOR | AMS CERTIFIED Ms. Toni has over seven years of experience in education. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Education and an AMS Montessori Certification. Her favorite part about working with students is witnessing their “aha!” moments when everything clicks. Her area of expertise is language arts, and she loves helping students develop strong communication and writing skills. Outside the classroom, she enjoys relaxing and listening to music.
Ms. Amber
PRIMARY MONTESSORI | LEAD EDUCATOR | AMS CERTIFIED Mrs. Amber has four years of experience as a Montessorian. She holds an Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education, a Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education with a focus on Leadership, and has completed Montessori training for both Primary and Lower Elementary. Her favorite part about working with students is engaging with their different personalities and encouraging them to challenge themselves to do more. Her areas of expertise and special interests include art, basic music theory, science, particularly biology.
Mrs. Sarah
PRIMARY MONTESSORI | CO-LEAD EDUCATOR | AMS CERTIFIED Mrs. Sarah has over 12 years of experience in education. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education and Montessori credentials in Early Childhood. Her favorite part about working with students is how they help her see the world from a whole new perspective. Outside the classroom, she enjoys spending time with her family and embraces her culture by celebrating Muslim holidays and traditions.
Mrs. Andrea
PRIMARY MONTESSORI | SPANISH EDUCATOR | AMS CERTIFICATION IN PROGRESS Originally from Colombia, Mrs. Andrea has over 15 years of experience in education and a deep passion for working with children. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Spanish Language and Special Needs Education. Her favorite part about working with students is seeing their excitement and joy when they master something new. Outside the classroom, she enjoys hiking and doing crafts.
Ms. Edna
PRIMARY MONTESSORI | SPANISH EDUCATOR Ms. Edna was born and raised in Puerto Rico, where she worked as an assistant teacher in a Head Start program and later as a teacher in several private schools. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Education. Ms. Edna is passionate about teaching and loves watching children learn new skills and grow each day. During her free time she loves spending time with her daughter.
Elementary 1
Expanding Knowledge, Strengthening Identity
Our Lower Elementary program serves students in Grades 1 through 3, building on the strong foundation established during the Primary years. At this stage, children move from concrete learning toward more abstract thinking while developing responsibility, curiosity, and a deeper sense of independence.
Through hands-on materials, collaboration, and discovery, students engage in meaningful learning experiences that strengthen academic understanding, real-world problem-solving, and confident bilingual expression across all subjects.
Students expand their learning through:
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Dual-language instruction in Spanish and English across all subjects
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Project-based, hands-on learning experiences, including Operation Day, Día de los Muertos, and Harry Potter Science Day
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STEAM-focused curriculum (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math)
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Physical Education, including swimming
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Performing arts and music
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Cultural studies and community involvement
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Student-led Poultry Patrol and garden agriculture, fostering leadership, responsibility, sustainability, and hands-on learning
This environment encourages students to think critically, collaborate thoughtfully, and develop a genuine love for learning as they grow into confident, capable learners.
Grade Levels: 1st – 3rd Grade
Teacher-to-Student Ratio: 1:8
Maximum Class Size: 25
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Mrs. Kat
LOWER ELEMENTARY | LEAD EDUCATOR | NAMC CERTIFIED Mrs. Kat has been a formal educator for 25 years and is certified to teach both Lower and Upper Elementary. She began working with children at 19, starting her journey as a Girl Scout Leader. Her favorite part about working with students is watching them grow, not only physically, but mentally and socially. Her unique knowledge of art, music, and creativity allows her to create an incredible, individually tailored educational experience. During her free time, she enjoys sipping coffee, getting lost in a good book, and spending quality time with her three cats.
Mrs. Fernanda
LOWER ELEMENTARY | SPANISH EDUCATOR | AMS & NAMC CERTIFIED Mrs. Fernanda has five years of experience working with children. She holds a degree in Clinical Psychology from UCF and is certified in Montessori education for both Lower and Upper Elementary. Originally from Mexico, Mrs. Fernanda loves teaching students a new language and sharing her culture. Alongside Mrs. Kat, Mrs. Fernanda helps oversee the Poultry Patrol program, caring for the ducks and chickens that live at the school. During her free time, she enjoys spending time with her tiny but mighty dog and going to the movies.
Mrs. Vikki
LOWER ELEMENTARY | ASSISTANT EDUCATOR Ms. Vikki has been part of MBAR for the past nine years and has worked with children in various roles since she was 15. Before joining MBAR, Ms. Vikki pursued an education in Radio and Television Broadcasting. She worked as a reporter in South Florida and as a freelance writer for Florida Today and Space Coast Business. Not only is Ms. Vikki an educator, but she’s also a Registered Behavior Technician. She has a true passion for working with children and is deeply loved by our students!
Elementary 2
Deepening Mastery, Building Independence
Our Upper Elementary program serves students in Grades 4 through 6, offering the opportunity to continue working with Montessori materials while engaging in more advanced and abstract learning. Often playfully referred to as the “9 to 21 range,” this stage reflects the growing maturity, insight, and independence of students at this level.
At this stage, students grow into confident, capable thinkers ready for greater responsibility, deeper reasoning, and leadership within their classroom and broader community. Learning becomes more self-directed, collaborative, and purposeful.
Students deepen their learning through:
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Dual-language instruction in Spanish and English across all subjects
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Advanced, hands-on learning in math, science, language, and cultural studies
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STEAM-integrated research and problem-solving
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Literature studies, scientific inquiry, and long-term project work
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Student-led “going out” experiences that build planning, responsibility, and real-world confidence
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Collaborative work that strengthens independence, identity, and leadership
This environment supports students as they refine critical thinking skills, develop personal responsibility, and step confidently into leadership roles—academically, socially, and personally.
Grade Levels: 4th – 6th Grade
Teacher-to-Student Ratio: 1:8
Maximum Class Size: 25
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Mr. Ethan
UPPER ELEMENTARY | LEAD EDUCATOR | AMS CERTIFIED Mr. Ethan has a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education and is MACTE-certified in Elementary I–II. He applies his knowledge of ancient cultures, human exploration, science, and geography to create memorable learning experiences his students will remember forever. In his free time, Ethan enjoys playing board games and bike riding.
Mrs. Javnia
UPPER ELEMENTARY | SPANISH EDUCATOR | AMS CERTIFICATION IN PROGRESS Mrs. Javnia holds advanced degrees in Education with specialized training in Montessori, special needs, and child psychology. Originally from Venezuela, she brings her culture to life in the classroom, teaching the children Spanish and sharing traditions like making arepas. She loves watching her students grow in independence, confidence, and joy as they explore and learn each day. She is very family-oriented and loves spending time with her children, especially enjoying outdoor and water activities.