“A teacher is the catalyst between a child and the environment prepared for his education.” — Dr. Maria Montessori
Our Mission
At Forest Montessori Tutoring, our mission is to nurture independent, compassionate, and curious learners through the Montessori philosophy, the rhythms of the natural world, and the power of bilingual education. We believe that children thrive when they are free to explore, move, and grow in a carefully prepared environment –both indoors and in nature. By integrating language immersion into daily experiences, we foster cultural awareness, cognitive flexibility, and communication skills that connect children to a broader world. Grounded in respect for each child’s unique path, we guide students to become confident thinkers, capable communicators, and caring stewards of their communities and the Earth.
Value Statement
We value the innate potential of every child and honor their natural desire to explore, learn, and belong. Guided by Montessori principles, we believe learning should be hands-on, child-led, and grounded in respect. We embrace the outdoors as an essential classroom, where children develop resilience, wonder, and a deep connection to the world around them. Through Spanish-English bilingual immersion, we celebrate linguistic and cultural richness while fostering cognitive growth and open-mindedness. In partnership with families, we cultivate a nurturing community rooted in peace, purpose, and possibility.
Our Team
Jessica Pezdek | Founder & Lead Instructor
Jessica grew up playing in the creeks, woods, and lakes of Central New York and is thrilled to watch her children enjoy them now, too. She has a Bachelor's degree in education and Spanish, a Master's degree in Spanish language, literature and culture, and is a certified Montessori guide. She has taught in a number of learning environments locally and internationally, most recently, having started a Spanish department at an independent school in Los Angeles. Jessica and her family are happily rooted back in Central New York where they enjoy all that rural life has to offer.
Hiyam Samad | Consultant & Co-Instructor
Hiyam Samad was the founder and head teacher of Mohawk Valley Montessori LLC, which operated out of the Westminster-Moriah-Olivet Presbyterian Church in Utica prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. She is trained and certified by the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) with a strong background in early childhood education. She has over 20 years of experience directing primary programs in three different Montessori schools in North America.