Crystal Lake Montessori School

Beata Zovkic

Early Childhood Teacher

Ms. Beata has been a Montessori teacher since 1999. She was born and raised in Poland. Ms. Beata has a Masters degree in Education from Silesian University in Katowice, Poland, and credentials Midwest Montessori Teacher Training Center (MMTTC). She is very passionate about her job. In her spare time, she loves to travel, discover different cultures, hike, read and study languages.


How did you learn about Montessori? I learned about Montessori when my 3-year old godson went to Montessori school in Minneapolis. I was blown away by his enthusiasm about school and his independence. At the same time, my wonderful friend who was a teacher at CLMS invited me to become a substitute teacher. I remember sitting in the parking lot at the school and watching children arrive with big smiles and I wanted to know the secret behind this happiness. After a year of substitute teaching, I joined the staff and I’ve been part of the CLMS family ever since.


What she loves about Montessori: If I were to choose one thing, it would be intrinsic motivation, which is directly connected to children’s desire to learn. Children learn not to receive a prize like a good grade. They are eager learners because they are motivated by their own curiosity. Learning new things brings them joy. We call it the love of learning.


3 things I can’t live without: Nature, books, the people I love.


Favorite trips: I love traveling. Each trip is full of discoveries. The most magical place for me is The Narrows in Zion National Park. I’m also slightly obsessed about trees. Redwood National Park as well as Sequoia and King Canyon National Parks are equally magical for me.


One rule I live by: You don’t know what you get back until you give.


Favorite quote: “Sometimes the smallest things take up the most room in your heart.” – A. A. Milne. If the student leaves my classroom with new skills, I’ve done my job. If a child leaves my classroom knowing they are loved and accepted for who they are, I’ve reached my goal.

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