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Emily Ziegenfelder
Early-Primary Lead Guide
While working in the public school system, Emily was introduced to the Montessori philosophy by Laura Tidmore. Emily loves the way the Montessori method addresses each child as an individual and promotes independence. She loves the energy and curiosity of children 18 months – 3 years old, and delights in watching them develop self-sufficiency. Before graduating from Troy University, Emily moved back to the Dothan area to complete her teaching internship. She and her husband Brandon met shortly after her graduation and were married in 2014. They enjoy going to the lake with family and hanging out with friends. On most weekends in the fall, you can find them in Auburn cheering on the AU Tigers. Emily loves spending time with her family, Taco Tuesday, and going on an occasional bike ride. Emily has always loved kids and has worked with them in many capacities. She has babysat, worked in a daycare, and taught Kindergarten and First Grade. She is ecstatic to continue what she loves here at DMS as an AMS certified Toddler Guide.
Alli McAfee
Early-Primary Assistant Guide
Allison grew up around childcare and education with her mother and grandmother both working in the early childhood field. During college, she worked at a local academy as the Lead in the Infant & Toddler room and later as an Elementary Assistant Teacher. After completing a degree in Engineering Graphics and spending several years in that industry, Allison returned to Troy University with the desire to teach. When she moved home from Savannah, GA, she learned of DMS and remembered the wonderful times she had in high school when she'd spend her summers working at the Montessori school in McDonough, GA. Her desire for children to learn in a way that embraces their uniqueness led her to the school. After serving extensively at DMS as a substitute guide, she looks forward to enriching her love for the Montessori method as the Early Primary Assistant Guide. When she is not at DMS, Allison enjoys spending time with her husband and cats.
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Kylie Parker
Primary Lead Guide
From caregiving to volunteering in preschool classrooms, Kylie was involved in education through her adolescence and young adulthood. She realized her passion for teaching while shadowing in local elementary schools and guiding children in small-group settings. She was first introduced to the Montessori method while completing her career tech classes in high school. She was intrigued by the methodology and began to incorporate this style of learning into her one-on-one student groups while volunteering. Kylie believes that the Montessori method of learning encourages confidence and allows students to learn independently, thus, creating their own timeline for growth. She has a passion for Montessori education and is currently pursuing her certification. She is thrilled to have planted her roots at DMS and looks forward to the growth she'll be a part of in our community.