Our Team
-Maria Montessori
Carrie Tippet
Executive Director
I moved from Maine to Colorado 13 years ago and have lived in Carbondale for the past 10 years. I’ve worked in Early Childhood for 8 years; I’ve been with Mt Sopris Montessori for 2 years. I’ve grown to love and understand the Montessori Philosophy these last few years and appreciate what it does for children of all ages. Letting children discover their capabilities on their own has been an amazing journey to watch and be a part of. When I am not at school you can find me outside on the river with my husband, son and two dogs or enjoying skiing with my son.
Jessie Mora
Toddler Float & Aftercare Teacher
The Montessori philosophy has been an inspiring journey for me. I am forever grateful to be part of this beautiful community and get to work with happy Montessori kids! Once you realize the difference you can make in a child’s life, it’s worth it. I’m very happy to be working here at Mt Sopris Montessori!
Becky Denning
West Toddler Lead Teacher
My love for early childhood education (especially toddlers) started when I got a nanny position in Aspen for 2-year-old twins in 1997. Colorado was a big change from North Dakota where I grew up and my love of the mountains and this valley has only grown stronger. I have a son who is in college at the University of New Hampshire and a daughter who will be a senior at Roaring Fork High School. When I’m not at school, I love to thrift shop, hike, camp, and take long walks with my 9 yr old dog Myles.
Kaleigh Wisroth
West Toddler Assistant Teacher
I was born and raised in Carbondale. I went K-12 in the Roaring Fork school district. I went to college in Denver and come back to work in many different kitchens and restaurants in the valley. I chose to leave my food and beverage background 5 months ago and come work at MSMS. I have enjoyed everyday teaching and have learned so much from the kids and about myself. In my free time you can find me outside! In the summer I’m usually rafting on the Roaring Fork, or mountain biking or somewhere lost in the mountains. In the winter you’ll find me every weekend on the ski slopes.
Jenny Kuhn
East Toddler Lead Teacher
I have worked at MSMS since 2010. I graduated from Colorado State University with a Bachelor of Science in Human Nutrition and Dietetics. In 2013, I earned my Early Childhood Teaching License from Colorado Mountain College and in 2014, I graduated from Montessori Education Center of the Rockies and earned an Infant and Toddler Credential from the American Montessori Society. In my spare time, I enjoy traveling with my family and researching my genealogy.
Sherri Halverson
East Toddler Assistant Teacher
I was born and raised in Wenatchee, WA. When I was 23 she had the opportunity to move to Carbondale with the family I nannied. A year later I met my future soul mate, Bryce, whom I married. During my free time I like to golf, bowl, camp, play disc golf, and watch football! You will hear me rooting for my team: “GO Seahawks!” I worked at Ross Montessori for 2 years prior to joining MSMS in 2014.
Jenny Basset
West Preschool Lead Teacher
I was born in Dallas but have been a Colorado transplant from the age of seven. I ran a home daycare for eight years when my kids were young, and another eight years when my grandkids were young, during which time I studied Early Childhood Education at Colorado Mountain College. When I’m not at school I enjoy hiking, snowshoeing, live music and dancing.
Danielle Skilton
East Preschool Lead Teacher
I have worked at MSMS since 2004 and have worked in all classrooms even though I am certified at the Montessori preschool level. I grew up in Edwards, CO on a family ranch. In 1987, I moved to the Roaring Fork Valley where I met my husband. In my free time, I can be found in the kitchen baking, traveling or spending time with my animals (a dog, 2 cats, and fish).
Bianca Avila
East Preschool Assistant Teacher
I am originally from Mexico City but I grew up in the Roaring Fork Valley. I joined MSMS in the fall of 2022. I love to hike with my dog and spend time with my nephews.