Faculty & Staff
Ms. Emily Jankowski
School Director
I have been in the education field since 2006. After earning my BS in Interdisciplinary Studies from Texas A&M, I began my career teaching at a public school here in Houston. I spent 7 years teaching first grade (my first love), one year in kindergarten, and one year as a science lab instructor. After spending time caring for my young daughter, I spent two years teaching a three-year-old class before joining the Smaller Scholars Family in May of 2022.
My husband and I are both native Houstonians and Aggies. We have one daughter who is in the elementary program at Smaller Scholars Montessori Academy. In my free time I love spending time with my family and reading! My hobbies include paper crafting (and crafting in general), reading, doing puzzles, traveling, camping, and hiking/spending time outdoors.
I have fallen in love with the Montessori Method. The independence that is fostered in the classrooms is amazing to see.
My husband and I are both native Houstonians and Aggies. We have one daughter who is in the elementary program at Smaller Scholars Montessori Academy. In my free time I love spending time with my family and reading! My hobbies include paper crafting (and crafting in general), reading, doing puzzles, traveling, camping, and hiking/spending time outdoors.
I have fallen in love with the Montessori Method. The independence that is fostered in the classrooms is amazing to see.
Ms. Ashley Nguyen
Head of Schools
I have worked in Early Childhood Education and Montessori since 2014. I received my B.A. in Sociology from Texas A&M University and received my Director’s Credential in 2017. I have been with Smaller Scholars Montessori Academy since 2017.
I married my college sweetheart and have a beautiful daughter named Emily who has been a Montessori Student since she was 6 weeks old. I enjoy NCAA football on the weekends and in my spare time, I enjoy dancing, photography, traveling and crafting.
I love Montessori because it fosters independence and teaches children the ability to do things for themselves. Montessori boosts a child’s confidence and empowers the child as well.
I married my college sweetheart and have a beautiful daughter named Emily who has been a Montessori Student since she was 6 weeks old. I enjoy NCAA football on the weekends and in my spare time, I enjoy dancing, photography, traveling and crafting.
I love Montessori because it fosters independence and teaches children the ability to do things for themselves. Montessori boosts a child’s confidence and empowers the child as well.
Ms. Cassandra Jones
Assistant Director
I have been an experienced educator since 1998, dedicated to early childhood education, specializing in the Montessori approach. Throughout my career, I have worked as a Montessori teacher, nurturing the development of young children and creating an environment that allows them to explore, learn, and thrive. Having worked with children aged 3 to 6, I have developed a deep understanding of child development and effective teaching practices that foster independence, creativity, and critical thinking.
I have recently transitioned into a leadership role as Assistant Head of School at Smaller Scholars Montessori Academy. In my position, I collaborate closely with the Head of School to manage daily operations and aim to enhance academic programs while supporting both staff and students.
Beyond my professional expertise, I enjoy a balanced life, making time for my favorite activities, such as going to the beach, listening to jazz music, and spending quality time with my family. I believe in living life to the fullest, and I bring this philosophy into my work and relationships with others. Committed to leadership development, diversity, and inclusion, I strive to create supportive environments that promote growth and collaboration within the educational community.
I have recently transitioned into a leadership role as Assistant Head of School at Smaller Scholars Montessori Academy. In my position, I collaborate closely with the Head of School to manage daily operations and aim to enhance academic programs while supporting both staff and students.
Beyond my professional expertise, I enjoy a balanced life, making time for my favorite activities, such as going to the beach, listening to jazz music, and spending quality time with my family. I believe in living life to the fullest, and I bring this philosophy into my work and relationships with others. Committed to leadership development, diversity, and inclusion, I strive to create supportive environments that promote growth and collaboration within the educational community.
Ms. Teri Lloyd
Elementary Director
I have my B.S. Elementary Education and MSEd from Baylor University with an emphasis in Montessori and Technology. I am Montessori Certified for 1st - 6th grades. I have been the Elementary Director since 2007. Beginning in 1992 I developed and taught both Lower & Upper Elementary Programs at Smaller Scholars Montessori Academy. I also taught Gifted & Talented Programs.
My hobbies include dancing and dining. I enjoy football, culture, music and meeting new people.
My hobbies include dancing and dining. I enjoy football, culture, music and meeting new people.
Ms. Janet Branstiter
Early Childhood Director
I have been an educator since 1990 and a Montessori educator since 1995. I have been with Smaller Scholars Montessori Academy since 1998.
I was born in England while my father served in the U.S. Air Force and I am the youngest of four daughters. Although I wasn't born here, after living in Texas for most of my life, I consider myself a native Texan.
I love to travel and take pictures. I enjoy being creative, reading and spending time with family and friends.
I was born in England while my father served in the U.S. Air Force and I am the youngest of four daughters. Although I wasn't born here, after living in Texas for most of my life, I consider myself a native Texan.
I love to travel and take pictures. I enjoy being creative, reading and spending time with family and friends.