Jihye Lee

Jihye's Montessori journey at MCH began as an assistant teacher, and it wasn't long before she fell in love with the philosophy. She went on to earn her Montessori Early Childhood teaching credential through MEIPN/AMS and later became a lead teacher in Pacific Willow. Before finding her passion for Montessori, Jihye spent seven years as an ESL teacher in the US, Korea, and Australia, and taught English and Digital Literacy to immigrants and refugees at the University of Washington. She holds a Master's in Education (TESOL) from Seattle University and a Bachelor's degree in English and Science.

Her move into the role of Early Childhood Program Director is a meaningful next step, one she has been working toward for quite some time. Her leadership, mentorship, and deep understanding of Montessori practice help support the Early Childhood program in a more holistic and far reaching way, strengthening the community she has already given so much to. Outside of the classroom, Jihye loves being surrounded by the diversity of the children at MCH and what she calls "the beauty of the school" itself. Married to a chef, she enjoys exploring new and exciting cuisines and restaurants, and also loves Korean movies and traveling.