Lower Elementary Lead Teacherdsloan@vimsia.org

View Ms. Sloan’s bio here.

Lower Elementary Lead Teacher (mordosgoitia@vimsia.org)

Mishelle Ordosgoitia was born in New York City and raised in Cartagena, Colombia. She attended an American bilingual school in Cartagena for 14 years, beginning at the age of 3 and continuing through high school. This immersive, dual-language education laid the foundation for her lifelong passion for language and cross-cultural understanding. She holds a B.A. in Psychology and a B.S. in International Studies from Old Dominion University in Virginia, an M.S. in Education with an emphasis on Second Language Acquisition from Nova Southeastern University in Florida, and a Master of Education with a focus on Montessori and Special Education from Loyola University Maryland. She is also a trained and credentialed AMI Elementary Guide.

During and after college, Mishelle was an Editorial Assistant, working alongside a former professor translating and editing Spanish-language courses and supporting United Nations Peacekeepers from Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean.

With over 15 years of experience in Montessori education, Mishelle has successfully developed and led Spanish programs in three AMI Montessori schools—one in Illinois and two in California and also led lower and upper elementary classrooms. Most recently, she led a Lower Elementary classroom in Austin, Texas, where her two sons, Lucca (9, 3rd grade) and Josh (5, Primary), are also  Montessori students. Mishelle is excited to discover the magic of St. Thomas and looks forward to welcoming her children for an incredible summer of exploration.

Lower Elementary Teacher’s Assistant

Ms. J’nique has worked at VIMSIA for the past several years in various capacities and is much loved on our campus. She has served as a permanent substitute for the Toddler and Elementary classrooms, assistant in the naproom and as our Toddler after-care point person. Ms. J’nique is a St. Thomian who came to us after having worked at Newton Kids Academy and Creative Learning Center here on St. Thomas. She is also a trained nail esthetician. Ms. J’nique is thrilled to work with many age groups!

Lower Elementary Assistant Teacher

Crystal Marsham is excited to be serving as an Assistant Teacher this year. She recently returned home after traveling and teaching in Korea, which gave her valuable experience working with children in diverse learning environments. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Public Health and an Associate degree in Medical Administration. Crystal is passionate about supporting students, encouraging their growth, and helping create a positive and welcoming classroom for every child. She looks forward to working together with families to make this a wonderful school year.