Who We Are
About Mariposa Montessori
For over two decades, Mariposa Montessori has been cultivating curious, confident, and compassionate learners — one child, one classroom, one community at a time.
Our Story
Founded on Belief
Mariposa Montessori was founded in 2001 by Maria Elena Vásquez, a bilingual educator who believed deeply that all children — regardless of background — deserve an education that honors their individuality. Starting with a single Primary classroom, the school has grown into a full elementary program serving over 320 students.
Our name, Mariposa — Spanish for butterfly — reflects our belief in transformation. Every child who comes through our doors carries the potential for beautiful, unexpected growth. Our job is to create the conditions for that growth to unfold naturally.
What We Believe
Our Core Values
Child as Protagonist
We trust children as capable, self-directed learners. Our role is to prepare the environment, observe carefully, and step back.
Community & Belonging
Mariposa is built on relationships — between children, guides, families, and the broader community we serve together.
Prepared Environment
Every material, every detail of our classrooms is intentional — designed to invite discovery and support independence.
25+
Years of Service
320
Students Enrolled
45
Educators on Staff
98%
Graduate to High School
Our People
Meet Our Team
Maria Elena Vásquez, M.Ed.
Founder & Executive Director
With over 20 years of Montessori experience, Maria Elena guides Mariposa with a vision of purposeful, child-centered education blended with forward-thinking innovation.
James Okafor
Lead Primary Guide
AMI-credentialed and endlessly curious, James brings warmth and scientific rigor to the Casa classroom. He has guided 3–6 year-olds for over a decade.
Sophia Reinholt
Lower Elementary Guide
Sophia is passionate about the Great Lessons and collaborative inquiry. She inspires children to see themselves as researchers of the universe.
Come Visit Us
The best way to understand Mariposa is to see it in action. Schedule a tour or reach out — we'd love to meet your family.