About Us
Welcome to Christian Family Montessori School! Established in 1983 by Dolores Russell our school was designed to provide a Christian experience that would benefit the children, parents and community. The Montessori philosophy of education was chosen for our school because it cultivates independence, order and inner discipline. It encourages a love of learning and a joy of discovery within a safe and stimulating environment. It is in this environment where each child can reach his full potential.
Our classroom, which has been located at St. Michael’s Episcopal Church since 1996, provides a unique setting for children to grow, learn and experience God’s love. We are dedicated to serving children ages 2.9 through 6 years old.
We are excited to introduce you and your child to the amazing world of discovery waiting in the Montessori classroom!
The Staff at CFMS
“At some given moment it happens that the child becomes deeply interested in a piece of work; we see it in the expression on his face, his intense concentration, the devotion to the exercise.”
The Discovery of the Child
Mission & Values
Our
Mission
Our mission is to provide a safe and respectful atmosphere where children can learn and grow in God’s love through exploration and discovery.
Our environment utilizes Maria Montessori’s specially designed, hands-on, educational tools that cultivate learning at all stages of early childhood development.
Our program combines Christian principles and Montessori philosophies to nurture our students into independent,
self-confident, caring citizens of the world who develop a lifetime love of learning.
Our
Values
These values guide the direction of our school and our interactions with students, families and staff.
We are grateful for each family who entrusts their son or daughter in our care.
We provide an environment that is an extension of home, where children feel comfortable, safe, supported and loved.
We cherish the many benefits our small school offers and the close-knit community it creates.
We respect and embrace every child’s uniqueness and encourage learning through discovery at each individual’s pace.
We base our program on Christian principles, the Montessori method and a strong academic curriculum, for which we regularly explore new ideas and experiences.
We teach and practice peace, conflict resolution and grace & courtesy in our classroom. We are mindful of the impact our words and actions have on the world and on each other.
We strive to educate and nurture the whole child so he or she can become a lifelong learner and an upstanding citizen of the world.
Our Staff
Gina Russell, Owner & Director
Gina Russell first became involved with CFMS in 2007 when her oldest son began attending the school. After his departure, her twins followed in 2010, which is when Gina also began her Montessori training with the New England Montessori Training Education Center. Gina began teaching Spanish part-time in 2011 and then became a part-time assistant in 2012. She completed her Montessori training in 2013, obtained Director certification from the Department of Early Childhood and Care (EEC) in 2015 and EEC Director II certification in 2019. Gina holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Applied Physics/Computer Science from Grove City College, a Master’s degree in Information Technology from Bentley University and a Master’s degree in Education from William Howard Taft University. In August 2024, Gina became the new owner of Christian Family Montessori School.
Teresa Smith, Lead Preschool Teacher
Teresa Smith has been in the field of education since 2004. She began her career as a teacher’s assistant many years ago, when her own children attended preschool at CFMS. Teresa currently serves as a Primary Lead Teacher, teaching children ages 2.9-6 years old. She is passionate about teaching the Montessori Method because of the ability it gives her to foster each child’s curiosity to learn. She received her AMS Montessori credential through Northeast Montessori Institute and Director 1 completion through Mass Bay. In her spare time, Teresa enjoys reading, yoga, cooking and spending time with her family.
Julie Docherty, Assistant Preschool Teacher
Julie Docherty has 11 years of Montessori experience and has taught a variety of ages. She graduated in 1993 with an Associate's Degree from Quinsigamond Community College in Worcester. Julie has one daughter, Alexis, who is currently a senior at Suffolk University in Boston. Julie enjoys gardening, planting and spending time with her family, daughter, and cat.
Marjorie McKinstry, Lead Toddler Teacher
Marjorie McKinstry has been working in Early Childhood Education for over 10 years. She has taught in classrooms ranging from infants to school-age. A graduate of Framingham State University, Marjorie holds a Director 2 credential and is certified through the Department of Early Education as a Lead Teacher for both Infant/Toddler and Preschool classrooms. In 2025 Marjorie participated in a year long program which qualified her to be a skilled mentor teacher. In her spare time, Marjorie enjoys spending time volunteering at a local animal shelter. She lives in Framingham with her Fiancé, Joseph, and their dog
