Meet Our Staff
Keira Rakestraw
Executive Director
Hello families! My name Is Keira, and I’m the Executive Director at the Executive Park Drive Campus. Ready for a quick story?
When I graduated with a degree in Elementary Education from the University of Maryland, I quickly discovered that the public school sector was not for me. So instead, I went to work as an assistant in a Montessori Preschool classroom and instantly fell in love with their philosophy.
I continued working at the Montessori school for 20 years, progressing to Assistant Director, then finally, the Director’s position, which I enjoyed for the last 6 years of my time there. After taking a few years off to be with my family, I returned to work in a traditional Preschool setting; however, my heart belonged to the Montessori classroom.
I love seeing what an exceptional Montessori Education can provide to young children and have witnessed it firsthand with my own kids. The Montessori approach fosters a lifelong love of learning and sets the foundation for developing warm, compassionate, well-rounded human beings.
My favorite part of my job is seeing those “aha moments” when I step into a classroom. There is truly something special about watching a child’s eyes light up when they realize, “I did it!”
My training and certifications include:
- 45-hour Infant/Toddler certification
- 90-hour Preschool certification
- 45-hour School-Age certification
- Medication Administration
- First Aid and CPR
- Emergency Preparedness
- And an extensive list of Continuing Education courses
Jill Scott
Executive Director
Hello! I’m the Executive Director at the Hickory Ridge Campus, and my superpower is being an animated and driven leader.
I have a Preschool certificate from Montgomery College and an Associate of Arts Degree from CCBC. I worked with The Drama Learning Center for 4 years as the Theater Arts Director, teaching and directing plays for children 3-11 years old. I’m also a former Preschool Teacher.
I first learned the importance of leadership, friendship, and teamwork when I was a member of the Girl Scouts between 1993-2007. I’ve always had a passion for working with children. Now, I’m inspiring a new generation of young minds to explore their artistic abilities and strengthen their self-confidence through creative learning strategies.
When I’m not helping to create little independent learners at GMS, I enjoy being outdoors, watching movies, and spending time with my family and 2 nephews.