Sarah Chandler
Program Director of Grove Academy
I believe teaching is both an art and a science. The art lies in human connection, intuition, creativity, and the ability to truly see each child. The science lies in understanding child development, cognitive research, and evidence-based instructional practices that support deep and lasting learning. In my work, these two dimensions are inseparable.
My approach centers on the whole child. Children thrive when they feel known, respected, and empowered. I design learning environments that cultivate independence, curiosity, collaboration, and emotional resilience. I believe children learn best through meaningful, hands-on experiences that invite them to explore, question, and construct understanding.
I value research-based instruction and draw from contemporary learning science, Montessori principles, and developmental theory to guide classroom practice. I believe in blending structure with creativity, data with intuition, and intentional planning with responsive teaching.
I view the classroom as a community, where relationships, belonging, and shared responsibility shape the learning culture. Families are essential partners in this work, and I prioritize transparency, communication, and trust.
As a school leader, I am committed to building environments that are academically rigorous, emotionally attuned, and grounded in authentic learning experiences. My goal is always the same: to help children grow into capable, compassionate, curious human beings who understand themselves and their world.
Sarah Chandler brings over thirty years of experience in Montessori education, curriculum design, and school leadership. She has served as Program Director and Elementary Curriculum Coordinator at LakeCreek Montessori International School in Austin, Director of Teacher Education Programs at The Montessori Schools of Silicon Valley in California, and Head of School and Elementary Curriculum Coordinator at Beverly Hills Academy in Michigan, as well as years of classroom experience with children from 18 months to adolescence.
Sarah views teaching as both an art and a science, blending creativity, intuition, and human connection with research-based instructional practices. Her educational philosophy centers on the whole child, emphasizing independence, curiosity, collaboration, and deep respect for each learner’s developmental journey.
Known for her warm, relational leadership style, Sarah partners closely with families and supports teachers in creating learning environments that are academically rigorous, emotionally attuned, and grounded in authentic, hands-on experiences. She is passionate about thoughtfully integrating Montessori with Reggio-inspired practices and project-based learning to meet the needs of modern learners.
Bloom Village 