KATRINA HOLDER – Founder; Director; Lead Teacher - Senior Elementary

I was originally inspired to pursue my degree in education by the children from Montessori schools whom I taught 31 years ago at the Santa Fe Ski Basin.  I observed that these children possessed a sophisticated sense of independence, self-direction and responsibility that stood out amongst all other children.  This initial introduction to Montessori children led me through an in-depth study of schools throughout the country where I was continually impressed and inspired by Montessori’s unique child centered form of education.

After completing my undergraduate studies at the University of New Mexico in 1987, I went to California to pursue a Master’s Degree.  I hold a Pupil Personnel Services Credential, a Community College Teaching Credential and a Master of Arts from the University of San Francisco Department of Education.  I went on to complete my Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) Elementary Teaching Credential in 1990, and soon returned to New Mexico to begin building a Montessori school.     

I created La Mariposa Montessori school with the vision of providing children with an outstanding education in a beautiful and well prepared environment which includes a unique animal husbandry program.  My vision is only beginning to emerge.  My vision has always included a landscaped campus to be incorporated into our botany study and a photovoltaic system to generate over 100% of our energy and be incorporated into our energy curriculum.  After these mile markers are achieved I have more surprises up my sleeve!  I’m looking forward to another outstanding year at La Mariposa.