Kim Olstrup is a multifaceted force of modern ingenuity and stands as a beacon of progress and community empowerment. Juggling roles as a mother, wife, business proprietor, and visionary entrepreneur, Olstrup’s journey has been marked by a dedication to enriching lives and fostering interconnectedness.

A pivotal moment arrived when her daughter’s original Montessori guide departed due to unforeseen circumstances.  This marked the turning point that ignited Kim’s passion to create a place where every person is treated with respect, and that every child enjoys their education. Propelled by an unwavering belief in the transformative potential of Montessori inspired education, she was driven to bridge the educational gap for her child and numerous others within the local community. This determination led her to establish MidCities Montessori Academy.

Kim opened doors to students across the metroplex, establishing a haven for self-directed, hands-on education that prepares children for a dynamic future. Her transformative educational vision also gave teachers a special place. She champions a learning environment that empowers educators to teach children, not just to the test, allowing them to embrace their unique teaching styles while nurturing each child’s individual growth. Just as students are at the heart of MidCities Montessori Academy’s approach, Kim recognizes the significance of providing a supportive space for teachers to flourish. 

With her fingers entwined in the threads of diverse enterprises, from education to community building, Kim Olstrup exemplifies the transformative potential of fostering kindness and unity. Because of that, her vision extends beyond the classroom walls. Recognizing the immense potential to amplify positive impact, Kim’s focus on the school-wide campaign of kindness engages the entire school community in acts of goodwill. She truly believes in sowing the seeds of a more compassionate world—one act of kindness at a time.

Laura Lee, shines with exceptional dedication and warmth and is the epitome of the ideal guide for every child’s educational journey. With a heart that embraces each child as her own, Laura Lee empowers them to blossom into independent learners, setting the stage for a lifelong love of discovery.

Certified by CME and boasting over 20 years of expertise, Laura Lee has honed her craft in nurturing young minds aged four through six within Montessori classrooms. Her educational philosophy transcends mere academics; it encompasses the holistic development of each child. She firmly believes that education encompasses social, mental, and emotional growth.

As our primary guide, Laura’s mission is to ignite a genuine passion for learning within each child. By fostering a love of discovery, she lays a solid foundation for their future academic endeavors. Her classroom is a sanctuary of exploration, curiosity, and growth, where young minds flourish under her gentle guidance.

Beyond the classroom, Laura Lee is a traveler at heart. When she’s not inspiring young minds, you’ll likely find her reveling in the great outdoors – be it riding ATV’s, fishing in serene waters, or sharing stories around a bonfire.

She paves the way for not just academic success, but also the development of well-rounded individuals who possess the spark of curiosity and the flame of independence.

Valerie Brave is a guiding light of dedication and inspiration. With an enduring commitment to fostering curiosity and understanding, she is not only a teacher but a mentor, nurturer, and advocate for children’s growth.

As a devoted mother of two teenage boys, Valerie’s lifelong passion for teaching and working with children has been a driving force in her journey. With over 15 years of experience, Valerie’s expertise spans a diverse range of grade levels and teaching methodologies.

Valerie earned her BA in Humanities from The University of Texas of the Permian Basin and holds an AA in Early Childhood Education, EC-4 from Brookhaven College. Her educational journey has equipped her to guide young minds with care, fostering a lifelong love of learning.

Valerie’s dedication is a true asset to our community, and her advocacy for Indigenous communities stands as a testament to her commitment to celebrating diversity and empowering every child’s potential

Valerie’s teaching philosophy is deeply rooted in the idea of empowering her students. She believes in guiding them to become independent learners, thinkers, and compassionate individuals. She places a strong emphasis on fostering open dialogue, encouraging questions, and creating a safe space for students to express their thoughts and ideas.

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