Isabel Layton

Co-founded a Montessori preschool in Highland Park, Los Angeles alongside four women from the community, with a focus on equity, whole-child development, and family engagement. Lead a classroom of children ages 2.5 to 6 while also overseeing curriculum development, staff professional development, enrollment, and brand and marketing. Work closely with families, teachers, and neighbors to build a school rooted in the needs of the community it serves.

Lead business planning, grant funding applications, and work closely with the SBA and SBDC to grow a sustainable school. Also oversee curriculum development, staff professional development, enrollment, and branding and marketing for the school.

Founded and operated a small Montessori program during the pandemic, creating academically and creatively rich learning experiences for families seeking connection and continuity during an isolating time. Built a network of families and educators that laid the foundation for Blossom Montessori. Managed all billing, budgeting, and operations.

Worked one-on-one with families raising children of various neurological abilities, providing coaching, curated resources, and practical tools to help caregivers build supportive home environments. Supported children directly in navigating stress in their relationships, education, and home life.

Currently completing American Montessori Society teacher certification focused on human development from conception to 36 months. Training covers Montessori philosophy as applied to infants and toddlers, attachment theory, and best practices for supporting the earliest stages of child development.

Completed American Montessori Society teacher certification focused on child development from ages 3 to 6 and Montessori philosophy and pedagogy. Training included hands-on classroom practice and deep study of the Montessori method as applied to early childhood education.