Community resources

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Rebecca Applegate is a proud and successful Autistic woman whose life experiences have inspired a deep commitment to supporting others on the Autism Spectrum. Having navigated adversity—particularly within education—Rebecca brings empathy, understanding, and a unique perspective to her work with children, adolescents, and young adults. Her dedication to creating safe, accepting spaces where individuals can truly be themselves and “unmask” has become a cornerstone of the Whiting Woods Montessori community. Through mentorship and advocacy, Rebecca continues to foster growth, confidence, and belonging for every learner she supports.

Whiting Woods Montessori warmly welcomes volunteers from our local community, including high school and college students eager to gain hands-on experience in education. Volunteering with us is a wonderful way to build your résumé, earn service hours for college applications, and make a positive impact in the lives of young children. Volunteers must be at least 14 years of age and willing to provide proof of a recent TB test, TDaP vaccination, and a copy of a driver’s license (if applicable). We’re looking for energetic, enthusiastic individuals who enjoy working with children and bring a spirit of curiosity and kindness to our classrooms. Under the guidance of Rebecca Applegate, a skilled and passionate Montessori educator, volunteers have the opportunity to learn the value of hard work, patience, and the joy of nurturing young minds in a Montessori environment.

We encourage applicants who are passionate about Montessori education – Whiting Woods Montessori seeks and encourages applicants from a broad range of backgrounds. BIPOC and/or LGBTQ+ applicants are highly encouraged to apply.  We seek employees who hold a Montessori credential and/or those who are interested in learning more about Montessori education. We prefer those who show a clear interest and passion for Early Childhood Education and Child Development; they must be comfortable working with children from 18 months to 6 years of age.

Whiting Woods Montessori instills a love of learning in our students that lasts a lifetime and goes beyond the walls of the classroom. When our students graduate from Whiting Woods, they are encouraged to greet the world with confidence and curiosity. Many students remain at Whiting Woods until they attend Kindergarten, and some remain with us in our After-School Program. WWM graduates in the past have attended the following schools: Abraham Lincoln Elementary, La Crescenta Elementary, Monte Vista Elementary, Dunsmore Elementary, John C. Fremont Elementary, John Muir Elementary, La Canada Elementary, Paradise Canyon Elementary, and Palm Crest Elementary.