With a background as an attorney and nearly 15 years of experience representing abused and neglected children in New York City’s family court system, my journey into education has always been guided by a deep commitment to the well-being of children. Over time, I witnessed the growing disconnect between modern systems and the true needs of childhood—connection, critical thinking, time with family, and space to grow in their own rhythm.

Motivated by my desire to create something better for my own children, I pursued my Elementary Montessori certification and began shaping what would become The Magnolia Schoolhouse—a place where children are seen, heard, and supported to become independent thinkers and joyful learners. A place where families stay connected, where learning is meaningful, and where childhood is protected.

The Magnolia Schoolhouse was born from love, concern, and the belief that we can—and must—do better. It’s not just a school, but a return to what matters most: children, family, and the freedom to grow with wonder and purpose.

At The Magnolia Schoolhouse, my role is rooted in service—to the children, to our educators, and to the families who entrust us with their most precious beings. I move fluidly throughout the school day, offering lessons, supporting our educators, and stepping into the classroom when needed to guide and nurture. Whether it’s helping children navigate social challenges through roleplay, curating our curriculum with intention, or ensuring our campus radiates peace and positive energy, my work is centered on creating a space where every child feels safe, seen, and inspired.

I also train our educators in Montessori methods and materials, coordinate and host our many events, conference with parents, and plan special experiences for both children and families. Each detail, from our gatherings to the energy in the room, is cared for with love and purpose. Above all, my priority is the well-being and happiness of our children—and it’s a joy and an honor to help cultivate an environment where they can truly thrive.

I could not be more fortunate to work alongside the devoted team that brings this vision to life every day, and to have the unwavering support of my incredible husband—the man behind the curtain—who keeps our campus beautiful, functional, and full of heart.

At The Magnolia Schoolhouse, I work behind the scenes to make sure everything runs the way it should—from the construction and repairs to the plumbing, safety, and overall upkeep of our campus. With a background as a licensed plumber and experience as a field engineer for the Long Island Railroad, I bring practical knowledge and hands-on skills to every corner of the school. If something needs building, fixing, or improving, I’m there—usually before anyone asks. I take pride in making sure our space is not only functional, but beautiful, peaceful, and safe for the children, educators, and families who fill it.

I share in this vision with my wife, Tara, both for our own two amazing children and for all the children who are part of this growing program. I feel incredibly fortunate to be present in their daily lives—to witness their joy, their growth, and their connections. I love spending time with the kids and families, whether it’s helping out during lunch, lending a hand at events, or just being around to share in the everyday magic of our program. The gatherings, the laughter, the shared moments—they’re what make this more than a homeschool learning center; they make it a community.

I’m also deeply grateful for the incredible team we have working in this program. Their shared vision, dedication, and daily efforts are what make The Magnolia Schoolhouse the special place that it is. I’m honored to work alongside them, and proud to help support all that they do to make this space so meaningful for every child who walks through our doors.

I may not be front and center, but I show up every day knowing that the support I provide helps everyone else stand tall and focus on what matters most: the children.

My name is Ms. Gina Wells. 16 years ago I started my teaching journey in the public school system. I taught grades Pre-K through 2nd, spending several years teaching multi-age reading. After 9 years of teaching I switched my focus from educating others to raising my three children.

During that time we explored several educational options. I homeschooled my own littles for a while, we also tried a few of the public and charter schools, but I still desired something more for them.

Several friends mentioned The Magnolia Schoolhouse, sharing all it had to offer.  Intrigued by the stories I heard of The Magnolia Schoolhouse, I decided to schedule a visit and see the magic with my own eyes.  While touring The Magnolia Schoolhouse I fell in love with the principles, the teaching philosophies, the idea of creating a child centered learning environment and felt the peace and tranquility that came with being in the learning environment and on the campus. I was not only eager to enroll my children in the enriching program but was excited to become one of the Lead Educators myself.

Working with the staff, learners and families at The Magnolia Schoolhouse has been such a rewarding experience. Each day our Learners run into school, smiling and giggling, excited to begin their day. Their love for school, learning and for their school family makes each day special and fulfilling. Together we garden, raise and care for animals, paint, create, play, read, chat, problem solve and learn. Learners are invited to “Grow Their Brains” using playful, hands-on activities that meet each child where they are academically, emotionally and socially. As a team, we focus on developing the whole child and through the children, the educators also grow.

As an Educational Guide, I am grateful to work with a team that is encouraging, supportive and understanding. The program focuses on the child and considers every facet of life. The energy is always positive and upbeat, which makes each of us feel excited to be part of her initiative. All of the Educational Guides are made to feel like an important part of The Magnolia Schoolhouse and vital members of the team. My children and I love the time we spend at The Magnolia Schoolhouse and are always looking forward to what each day will bring. 

Hi, I’m Ashley! I’m an enthusiastic holistic guide dedicated to nurturing children’s learning and well-being. As a certified yoga teacher and children’s mindfulness instructor, I bring gentleness, presence, and intentionality into each day—whether we’re moving through breathing techniques, exploring math and language through playful games, planting in the garden, or heading out on a nature walk. I guide with warmth and deep respect for each child’s unique path, always encouraging creativity, curiosity, and confidence.

The environment at The Magnolia Schoolhouse is free-flowing and rooted in exploration. Children have access to a wide variety of tools and resources that fuel their curiosity and nurture their skills—from making fresh-squeezed orange juice and baking banana bread, to researching animals, caring for our pet ferrets, and discovering addition through play. Each day, they engage in different workshops like cooking, Spanish, music, and art—building practical skills and expanding their minds in fun, hands-on ways. It’s a space that honors independence and invites children to learn in ways that feel joyful, grounded, and meaningful.

Working at The Magnolia Schoolhouse is like being part of something truly aligned. It’s collaborative, creative, and deeply supportive. We trust each other as a team, communicate openly, and co-create meaningful experiences based on what’s best for the children. There’s space here—for new ideas, for honest conversations, for growth as both educators and individuals. It’s a place where I feel valued, inspired, and constantly reminded why I love working with children.

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I go by Mr. Gerald at The Magnolia Schoolhouse. I’m a lifelong educator with decades of experience teaching chemistry at both the high school and college levels. Over the course of my career, I’ve taught AP and college-level chemistry in a range of environments—from independent schools in Florida, California, and Texas to international classrooms in Switzerland, Greece, and England. My journey in education has been as expansive as it has been fulfilling, and I was honored to receive the Kenneth E. Behring Teacher of the Year Award—an accolade given by students, peers, and administrators.

At The Magnolia Schoolhouse, I now work with students who are ready for deeper academic exploration, guiding them through complex ideas in a way that honors their natural curiosity and eagerness to learn. Though I’ve spent much of my life teaching older students, working with children in the elementary years has brought an unexpected joy and vibrancy to my life. There’s something incredibly meaningful about engaging young minds in hands-on learning and witnessing their growth in a nurturing, thoughtful environment.

Being part of The Magnolia Schoolhouse community is a joy. It’s a place where learning is alive, creativity is encouraged, and every day I am there feels like an opportunity to inspire and be inspired.

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