Meet Our Faculty
Our faculty is one of our greatest strengths. Highly trained and deeply committed, our teachers bring a wealth of Montessori expertise and diverse interests to their work. Their dedication has helped generations of children flourish, and their impact is reflected in the strong, enduring relationships we maintain with our alumni families.
For more than forty years, HRMS has been a trusted, vibrant part of the community—a place where children are known, supported, and inspired every day.
Maya Smith
Head of School and Lead Teacher
Maya (age 4) with color tablets
Maya’s connection to Montessori education began in her own childhood, and today she is the proud parent of an HRMS graduate. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and a Master’s degree in Special Education. Maya was a legal advocate for children with disabilities in NYC before teaching at the elementary level. Maya joined HRMS in 2020 as an Assistant Teacher. She then earned her Montessori Lead Teacher certification before becoming Head of School. Maya enjoys reading, sewing, and spending time outdoors.
Jennifer Hios
Lead TeacherJennifer’s journey to HRMS began during her undergraduate studies at Goucher College, where the writings of Dr. Maria Montessori first captured her interest. After earning her Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education, Jennifer received her American Montessori Society (AMS) credentials in 1996. After moving to Fairfield, Jennifer joined HRMS as an assistant for three years and has served as a Lead Teacher since 2020. Outside of school, Jennifer enjoys cooking with her family, listening to local bands, reading, gardening, and taking peaceful walks.
Romesha Jayasundera
Lead TeacherRomesha was born and raised in Sri Lanka, where she completed her Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) Primary Diploma. She continued her Child Development studies at Fullerton College in CA. Romesha had over 20 years of experience in Montessori environments across Sri Lanka, CA, and TX before joining us at HRMS. This breadth of experience gives her a rich, holistic understanding of the Montessori approach and the needs of young children. Outside the classroom, Romesha loves spending time in nature with her family (and their lovable puppy). She also enjoys crocheting and creating handmade cards and gifts with her daughter.
Bevin Cosgriff
Director of Enrollment and Parent EngagementA Montessori child herself, Bevin is also a proud mother of two HRMS graduates, making her role especially meaningful. She earned her BA from Gettysburg College and spent 15 years working in event management and administrative support. Drawn to work that balances warmth with thoughtful organization, Bevin joined HRMS during her daughter’s final year and quickly found a role that aligned with her strengths and values. Outside of school, Bevin loves reading, baking, and flower arranging.
Grace Lee
Assistant TeacherGrace was born in Korea and completed her education in Brisbane, Australia, where she specialized in Japanese and Music Education. Her career has taken her across three continents—from teaching Japanese and Music in Mirani, Australia, to leading a Music department in London. After relocating to the U.S., Grace joined HRMS in 2021 as an Assistant Teacher. Her care for young people extends beyond the school day through her involvement in serving the Youth at her church. Grace also enjoys playing the piano, reading, sewing, and spending time with her family. Grace is fluent in Korean.
Judy Vogt
Assistant TeacherJudy brings many years of experience working with young children and a joyful belief that every day offers something new to discover. Her calm presence and genuine curiosity create a classroom atmosphere where children feel encouraged to explore, ask questions, and grow at their own pace. Outside the classroom, Judy enjoys spending time at the beach, traveling, and being with her family, all of which bring balance and inspiration to her work with young learners.
Laura Abelli
Assistant TeacherLaura earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and joined HRMS in 2024 after six years working in special education. During that time, she gained valuable experience supporting diverse learners and developed a deep appreciation for individualized instruction. Laura has dreamed of being a teacher since childhood, and she feels grateful each day to work alongside such dedicated staff and joyful students. Outside the classroom, Laura enjoys life with her husband and their daughter, who continues to inspire her passion for early childhood education.
Maryse Jolicoeur
French TeacherOriginally from Québec Province, Canada, Maryse has been a French specialist in the state of CT and educator of our Language Immersion program since 2002. She is well-known for developing engaging, multisensory language instruction that integrates art, culture, music, cuisine, literature, and mythology to create an immersive learning experience.
Maurya Brown
Piano and Group Music TeacherMaurya holds a Bachelor of Arts in Vocal Music/Education with concentrations in Art and Theater. Maurya was a part of the Connecticut Chamber Choir for 26 years and remains an advocate for live, high-quality choral performance. Maurya currently teaches piano in her home studio and directs the summer musical theater camp for the Trumbull Youth Association, where she contributes to every aspect of the production—from set design and construction to singing and directing.