“Imagination does not become great until human beings, given the courage and strength, use it to create.”
Maria Montessori
The STXM Toddler Team Guides Students Ages 18 months – 3 years
Callie Rupp
Callie began working with children as a camp counselor during her college summers and later led the 3–5-year-old group at the Big Island Adventure Camp on St. Croix. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Art Education, a master’s degree in Special Education, and is a certified AMI Montessori 0–3 Guide. Callie has taught around the world—in Costa Rica as an art teacher, in Mexico City as a first and second grade teacher, and in Taiwan as a preschool and kindergarten teacher for six years. She embraces Montessori fully, guided by the quote, “Help me to do it myself.” Outside of school, Callie enjoys fire dancing, snorkeling, and time with friends and family.
Atasha palmer
Atasha was drawn to Montessori because it reflects her belief that every child is capable, unique, and deserving of respect. With over 12 years of experience working with infants and toddlers, she loves watching young children grow through hands-on exploration and meaningful routines. Atasha finds joy in the “firsts” toddlers bring—first friendships, first full sentences, and first steps toward independence and self-discovery. A fun fact about her is that she loves to sing and watch musicals, and as a child, she dreamed of being on Broadway. Outside of school, she enjoys cooking, baking, beach days, and time with friends and family. Her favorite book to share is Fancy Nancy because it celebrates confidence, individuality, and self-expression. A quote that guides her comes from Benjamin Franklin: “Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn.”
The STXM Primary Team Guides Students Ages 3 years – 6 years
najua idheileh
Najua was drawn to our school’s commitment to fostering independence, curiosity, and compassion through Montessori education. With coursework in child care education from UVI and hands-on experience supporting Montessori students, she’s currently pursuing her AMI certification to deepen her knowledge. Najua brings a multicultural perspective to the classroom—she’s a polyglot who speaks English, Portuguese, Arabic, and Spanish, and she loves sharing languages with young learners. Her favorite book to read aloud is La Oruga Muy Hambrienta, the bilingual version of The Very Hungry Caterpillar. Outside of school, she enjoys yoga, walking, and quality time with loved ones—nurturing mind, body, and heart.
The STXM Elementary Team Guides Students Ages 6 years – 11 years
vernice challenger
v.challenger@stxmontessori.com
Vernice first learned about Montessori from a family member and soon found herself inspired by its child-led philosophy. She joined St. Croix Montessori as an assistant guide and has spent the past nine months supporting children with patience and care. Vernice especially loves working with young learners because of their curiosity and openness to trying new things. Though she describes herself as shy, her calm presence and steady support shine in the classroom. Outside of school, Vernice enjoys working in her yard and attending church. She brings heart, consistency, and quiet strength to our school community every day.
Radiance Irwin
Radiance joined our school the very same day she read about it in the Avis—she walked in, met Ms. Sullivan, and was hired on the spot. A proud Crucian, born and raised on St. Croix, Radiance brings over 45 years of experience working with children. She recently earned her AMI Montessori Assistant Certificate and says she’s still learning and growing every day. Known for her warm hugs and playful spirit, Radiance believes that every child holds greatness within. She loves fairy tales, cooking, and spending time with her beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her favorite quote? “Perhaps a great future leader is with us…”
The STXM International Baccalaureate MYP Team Guides Students Ages 11 years – 14 years
and Athletic Director
keith pollock
Keith was excited to help build a new program on the island that encourages kids to become creative thinkers and lifelong learners. With a Bachelor’s in Middle School Education and IB certifications in Math, Science, Health, and PE, Keith has taught 4th to 8th grades and loves supporting students during this important stage of discovering who they are. When he’s not teaching, you’ll find him snorkeling with his family and dogs or soaking up ocean views. Keith also believes that athletics can be a fun and powerful way for kids to learn about themselves.
The STXM Administrative Team Guides The Process
Bethaney Lee
Bethaney came to St. Croix Montessori because the Montessori and IB approach reflects everything she believes about helping children grow with confidence. She brings over a decade of experience coaching gymnastics in San Francisco, including serving as a recreational director at three gyms where she developed curriculum, managed programs, and supported thousands of students. Bethaney has also built a career in communications and project management, supporting government initiatives as a consultant for federal clients, including work under presidential executive orders. Many people don’t know she spent several years as a reporter for the VI Source and the Daily News, where she developed her love of storytelling and asking great questions. She loves Amelia Bedelia for the laughs and is guided by Nastia Liukin’s reminder that “confidence is built through training.”
Mike Morales
Mike joined St. Croix Montessori to be part of a growing learning community where every role contributes to the positive impact the school makes. With a background in farming, landscaping, turf care, and building maintenance, he provides essential skills for both daily needs and future expansion. Mike especially enjoys when students stop to ask about his projects—it’s a chance to share his knowledge and inspire curiosity about the work around campus. Outside of school, he enjoys traveling, fishing, farming, and golfing. We don’t get to see it on campus, but Mike is also a guitar and bass player and loves to “make some noise now and then.”
