Meet Our Staff

Welcome to Greenbrook Montessori School. I’m Deborah LaPorte the Executive Director/ CEO and founder of Greenbrook. My Montessori journey/ story goes way back…to 1971. I was a college student on my way to a BA in Behavioral Science, looking for a part time assistant teaching job. I found my way to a Montessori school. As luck or fate would have it I was hired by a wonderful teacher who later was acknowledged as a “Montessori living legacy.” Sonnie took me under her wing. It couldn’t have been a more perfect beginning. My mentor changed my life. I will forever be thankful for her guidance and inspiration. She actually drove me to the Montessori Training Center and handed me over to yet another “Living Legacy” for formal training and so my journey began.

My husband (also a Montessori teacher) and I opened our first school with our toddler in tow in 1975. We were on a mission to create a beautiful environment and facilitate experience that would provide the framework that would encourage our child (all children) to fulfill innate potential. Our school expanded. One program led to another as our family grew to include three children and two schools. Our children are all grown, professional “Montessorians” in their own right and are continuing our family legacy. Our ten grandchildren are either alum or current students. We are an all Montessori all the time family!

I have been passionate about Montessori since first stepping into a classroom. I was struck with the thought that I never wanted to leave and here I am, over forty years later, never wanting to leave. I realize I am happiest when in the presence of the children. I also realize that it is “the child” who reminds me of the most important things in life. It is “the child” who brings joy and hope to our world. There is nothing more precious than children. Nor is there a more important time than early childhood. I am grateful to have the opportunity to serve the children and families who are part of our community and am delighted to now be the mentor who provides guidance and inspiration to those coming after me.

Victor J LaPorte is a second generation Montessorian. Having grown up in a family of educators, he has devoted his life to the education of the young child and the continued growth of high quality Montessori programs. V.J. is a Montessori certified teacher himself, having spent years in the classroom environment, guiding 3-6 year olds. He is also a Montessori credentialed administrator, now serving as Head of School. His dedication, professionalism, and belief in the Montessori approach to education has helped shape Greenbrook into the school it is today.