Our Staff

Maria is originally from Baguio City, Philippines. With over 15 years of experience in committed upholding high standard education, Maria has taken various roles including 11 years of which in Indonesia as a Preschool Educator and a School Principal.

It is her belief that every child is unique and deserves an educational environment where they can grow physically, mentally, emotionally, and socially. Her goal to create an atmosphere where students can reach their full potential in a safe and nurturing space. This environment will encourage children to explore without fear and learn both what to learn and how to learn. By embodying the ethos of Guidepost Montessori, we provide these safe spaces not only for our students but also for our guides to grow and develop professionally.

Mr. Simone really values the use of the Montessori approach both inside and outside the classroom. He is a professional educator and qualified AMI teacher who holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Turin in Italy. He previously worked at Montessori kindergartens in Jakarta and the United Kingdom, and most recently, he educated children and adults with learning differences. His goal has always been to support people to live purposeful and happy lives, especially by fostering independence. Mr. Simone has lived in Spain, India, Indonesia, and the U.K., and speaks English, Italian, Spanish and has a basic knowledge of Bahasa Indonesia. He is enthusiastic in learning about a wide variety of subjects from Astronomy to History, and his goal is to pass his enthusiasm in the discovery of new knowledge to the children in the classroom here at Guidepost Montessori AYANA Bali.

Ms. Irina earned her Master's Degree in Educational Leadership from California State University and then received her American Montessori Society (AMS) diploma. Ms. Irina has rich experience working with young learners from around the world. She also teaches a remote Early Childhood Care and Education course at a Sri Lankan university. She believes early childhood lies the foundation for the child’s life ahead. Passionate about languages and cultures, she loves creating stimulating environments that support the development of global citizens.

Ms. Jeffy holds a Bachelor of Hotel Management from Bali Tourism Polytechnic. She first started at AYANA on the reservations team, but after realizing her true passion is working with young children, she transitioned to AYANA’s Kids’ Club. She loves working with children and how they keep her young at heart. She’s thrilled to be joining Guidepost and hopes to create a lifelong love of learning for all the children in her care.

Ms. Sissi Zhao graduated from the Beijing University of Technology, majoring in Chinese Painting. She has over 10 years of experience working in Montessori schools in Beijing and holds a diploma from the American Montessori Society (AMS 0-6). She is adept at implementing the Mandarin language listening and speaking practices in the school environment throughout the day whenever appropriate. She believes that building quality communication with children promotes self-confidence and self-directed exploration, and lays the foundation for creating responsible global citizens for the future