Toddler Program
(18 months to 3 years old)
In the toddler classrooms, children are not “served” but encouraged to become functioning members of the community. Activities are positioned around the room for toddlers to choose independently. Each activity allows the child to begin to experience the concepts of sequence, form, shape, movement, and sound. Additionally, toddlers enjoy learning life skills. They love to prepare the snack, set the table, water the plants, or sweep the floor. This practical life training, along with grace and courtesy lessons, helps to build self confidence and independence.
Teachers in this program are Montessori professionals. They continually seek new experiences for their students that will stimulate curiosity. The Infant/Toddler Program provides the respect, tenderness, warmth, and patience that our youngest children need to blossom.
Meet our faculty and staff



Ms. Corey began working at Montessori School of Anderson in 2016 after graduating with a dental assistant certification in 2014 and realizing shortly afterward that her passion was working with kids. She enjoys working with the toddlers and seeing all of their accomplishments each day. She is the Toddler 2 Lead and has earned a certificate from the Center for Guided Montessori Studies Montessori Beginnings course, ages birth to three. She loves her two dogs and spending time with family and friends.

Vivian Hooper is the assistant toddler teacher for the Toddler 2 classroom. She has been at Montessori School of Anderson since 2021. After working in the medical field for 42 years, she decided that she wanted to work with small children for a change. Ms. Vivian loves reading and spending time with her family.

Ms. Kacie joined MSA in 2020 with twelve years of prior childcare experience. She worked in the Infant class for 4 years before moving to teach toddlers. She completed Montessori Beginnings training through the Center for Guided Montessori Studies in 2021, and is currently pursuing her Montessori certification for Infant/Todder ages 0-3.

Ashlyn Looney has been at Montessori School of Anderson since January 2024. Ms. Ashlyn is the Toddler Three Assistant teacher. She received her Associate Degree from Tri-County Technical College in Early Care and Education in 2021. She has been working with children for over four years and enjoys reading, baking, and running.


Mrs. Webber has been at Montessori School of Anderson since 2016. Kim has earned her Center for Guided Montessori Studies certification in ages birth to three. She was lead in the infant room for many years until she semi-retired. She now works as the Infant/Toddler floater. Her hobbies are reading and spending time with family. She loves all the children and the community at MSA.


Ms. Melissa Hightower has been at Montessori School of Anderson since 1996. She started her journey working with infants and toddlers. In 2000-2002 she spent 2 summers in New York earning her Montessori Associate Degree for 0-3 Year Olds. In 2013 she became the Director of the Infant/Toddler program, as well as the Director of Admissions.