Meet the Leadership Team

Mrs. Daniela Garcia - Kukumi Montessori Founder & Administrator, sitting on a small wooden chair smiling, with a table beside her displaying colorful art, a globe, and a small figure, in front of a sign that says "KUKUMI MONTSERRAT EN ESPAÑOL".

Daniela began her professional journey with a BA in Architecture from Universidad Tecnológica de México and five years in the building industry. Her transition into Montessori education was inspired by motherhood and a desire to support her daughters in reaching their highest potential. Since then, she has cultivated a rich background in early childhood education—teaching in Mexico City, interning at Magnolia Montessori for All in Austin, and earning her Montessori Early Education certification, while currently pursuing Lower Elementary credentials.

Driven by her passion, Daniela founded Kukumi Montessori to fulfill a need for high‑quality, Spanish‑language Montessori education. She’s also advancing her expertise through training in The Effective Parenting Method®, reinforcing her dedication to emotional and holistic child development. When she isn’t guiding young learners, Daniela enjoys exploring holistic education, traveling with her family, and embracing new experiences that fuel her creative and caring approach.

Daniela García

Daniela García — Founder & Head of School

Meet Our Spanish Immersion Educators

Kukumi Montessori Guide & Prepared Adult Instructor, Monica Portillo, with brown hair smiling at the camera, sitting at a table with a planner and pen, wearing a white blazer and patterned scarf in a well-lit room.

  • Originally from Venezuela, I moved to the United States almost 4 years ago and bring with me a background as a Licensed psychologist, For the past 2 years, I have been dedicated to studying the Montessori philosophy, and I am currently pursuing my certification and training as a Montessori assistant.

    As a wife, mother and grandmother I deeply valuefamily, respect, and community- principles that align beautifully with the mission of Kukumi Montessori.

    I am passionate about nurturing children in an environment filled with love, patience and curiosity, and I feel grateful to grow and learn alongside your children and our dedicated team.

Spanish immersion Montessori teacher with guitar, promoting bilingual education through music at Kukumi Montessori in South Austin

  • Karen Sandoval, originally from Cali, Colombia, is a singer, songwriter, and music producer. She was the first woman to graduate in sound production from EAS Academy in Medellín (2007) and studied classical music at the Institute of Fine Arts. Her career includes composing for film, television, and contemporary art festivals. Since 2017, she has lived in Austin, Texas.

    Karen’s Música Libre project deeply aligns with Kukumi Montessori’s values—fostering emotional well-being, creative expression, and meaningful learning through community and connection. Her work offers children a sensory and emotional path for growth, complementing Kukumi’s mission to nurture both hearts and minds in a respectful and loving environment.

Michelle Owens Montessori guide leading Spanish immersion lesson in Austin preschool classroom

  • Movement Specialist

    Ms. Michele, a lifelong dancer and educator, holds a Master’s in Modern Dance and has taught for over 25 years, specializing in inclusive dance education. Her creative, empowering approach aligns beautifully with Kukumi’s Montessori values of independence, self-expression, and growth.