"Free the child's potential, and you will transform them into the world." - Dr. Maria Montessori

Director & Owner

Ms. Danon North received her American Montessori Society Certificate in 1995 and taught and served as assistant director in a dual language program in Seattle. 

In 2002, she joined the Sunrise staff as a teacher, and purchased the school and began her tenure as the Director in 2007.  Felicia brings a deep love and creative appreciation for young children into the classroom, augmenting the program through her abilities in gardening, music, and languages.  

Her extensive international travel and experience growing up and living overseas has deepened the geography, languages, and culture programs at the school. The Sunrise Staff and Families love how Felicia runs her school with passion and heart. 

Toddler Teacher

Hi, my name is Crystal,

For the past few years I have attended Santa Barbara City College. I look forward to receiving my Early Childhood Education Certificate. 

I love spending time with children, they bring so much joy. In 2019, I became a mother myself and it has given me the inspiration to become a better teacher and advocate for my children at Sunrise Montessori. What I love most is seeing their big happy smiles coming to school and witnessing their enthusiastic flourishing over time.

Aside from teaching, I enjoy spending quality time outdoors, going to the zoo with my son, and going on walks to catch sunsets by the beach. The Sunrise Staff and Families love Crystal's warm nature and thoughtfulness toward each individual child.

 Toddler Teacher

I have enjoyed working with children at Sunrise since the fall of 2019, learning about Montessori and a different style of teaching young children.  In my first semester in 2016 at Santa Barbara City College, I took Mechanic/Automotive classes.   Right after my first semester, I was introduced to Early Childhood Education classes. I started on the road of Early Childhood Education by observing children in their natural setting and volunteering for Mariposas camp (for children with special needs) when I worked at Mariposas project — then doing hours at Orfalea Early Learning Center while working towards my Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education. Lastly, I worked at Starr King Parent-Child Workshop. I have also completed my Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Studies from CSU Channel Islands. I enjoy and want to continue working with children. Additionally, I am a Sunday school teacher at my church, “Vida Abundante IPUL.” 

Seeing how children grow in their unique ways made me realize that every child needs an opportunity to show their skills. No two children are the same, and we need to value their attributes to a family and community. I believe that the children of today will be the adults of our future, depending on how we educate them, will shape our future. Teaching at Sunrise has been extraordinary. The friendly staff and loving families that come in are a blessing to my life. I like the effort every parent makes for their child to be ready to have fun every day.

In my spare time, I like to enjoy time with my wife and son, work on bicycles and take care of my two pet turtles. I enjoy working with my hands trying to repair things at home or take them apart, trying to see what makes them run. The most significant part of my life is being a Christian. I attend service every Friday and Sunday and events throughout each week.  The Sunrise Staff and Families love Edvin's humor and wit and calm presence  and patience when speaking with the children.

Montessori Lead Primary Teacher

I came to Sunrise in the Fall of 2010, after seven years at Montessori Center School and 5 years in traditional preschool. In addition to earning her Associates in Early Childhood Education with Honors, from Santa Barbara City College, and specialized training for children with Autism and Sensory Processing Disorders in 2011, I received my Associate Montessori Teacher Credential, from the American Montessori Society in 2013. 

I fell in love with the Montessori Philosophy 14 years ago. I fully believe Maria Montessori's idea that children have an absorbent mind and that they learn best using their senses and having hands on experiences. With her knowledge of Montessori philosophy she follows the child, and through careful observation she provides an environment that stimulates their interest.

I believe that children are not just our future they are also our present and as teachers we have the honor of being part of their daily lives. I want to instill in the students a curiosity and natural desire to learn about the world and its people. I want to encourage them to practice the fundamental values of sharing, caring, listening, trusting, and honesty. 

I have been married for 30 years to my best friend. We are blessed with two wonderful children. Besides spending time with my family, I love to cook and am passionate about continuing my education. The Sunrise staff and families love Margarita's motherly love and her ability to make every child and family feel welcomed into our sweet community.  

Primary Teacher

In 2010 I decided to become a teacher and immediately began my formal training in Early Childhood Education receiving my certificate from Santa Barbara City College. Just after my daughter Sullivan graduated from preschool I began playground set up/supervision at Sunrise. In 2011 I started helping in the Stars Group classroom. 

I had no idea I wanted to be a teacher until I came across Sunrise. I was immediately attracted by the love and guidance Sunrise provided my daughter. My mood always lifted the minute I walked through the blue gate to pick up my daughter. I adore connecting with children. I love finding out what makes them laugh, what gets them excited, and how they learn. For me, there is no better profession than helping a young child grow into their awareness.

Aside from teaching, one of my other passions is dancing. I have been dancing since I was 6 years old and my love for it has never ceased. Now Yoga has become a passion as well. I love all animals, except spiders. Taking my little rescue Chihuahua for long walks is much more fun for me than it is for him. One of my favorite things is grabbing a picnic basket and finding a beautiful spot to enjoy with my family. Finally, becoming a "volleyball mom" has ignited a new found love of sports that I never knew I had. The Sunrise staff and families love Kimberly’s nurturing and attentiveness to each child’s unique and wonderful personality. 

 Primary Teacher

My love for teaching came from watching my mother Margarita, the Montessori lead primary teacher here at Sunrise. The work and dedication that my mother had for the children inspired me and I knew I wanted to be a teacher from that moment on, and since then has been pursuing my love for education. I have completed over 200 hours of volunteer work at Montessori Center School in addition to two semesters of student teaching at Orfalea Early Learning Center, which is part of Santa Barbara City College. 

I first started here at Sunrise as a substitute teacher in 2016, and am now a full time teacher. I finished my Associates degree in Early Childhood Education at Santa Barbara City College in 2017 and my Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Studies at California State University Channel Islands in 2019. I completed my Montessori Early Childhood Diploma from NAMC in 2020. 

What I love most about teaching is being able to be a part of the children's lives, to watch the children progress, and to see the sparkle in their eyes when they achieve something new.

Outdoor Coordinator 

Playground Activities  

 Hi! I’m Julissa Reyes, and I’m currently studying Education at SBCC with a focus on Early Childhood Education. I believe that every child has the potential to succeed when they have the right support and guidance.

Before joining Sunrise Montessori, I worked as a babysitter, which helped me gain valuable experience in caring for and managing children. I’m excited to create an environment where kids can work together, think creatively, and explore new ideas.

In my free time, I enjoy reading and meditating, and I’m always looking for ways to improve as a teacher and continue learning. I’m excited to make a positive impact on the students and community at Sunrise Montessori.  The Sunrise Staff and Families love Julissa's positive energy and gentle nature when working with the kids.

Administrative Assistant

   I am deeply honored to work at Sunrise Montessori school.  Like Dr. Montessori herself, I pursued professional degrees before finding myself supporting the education of young minds.  My experience includes writing grants, publishing research, public speaking, and beekeeping.  I hold a PhD in entomology from the University of Nebraska and have SBCC parent education classes for the last 6 years to keep learning.  I believe wholeheartedly in independent self-led learning that has no bounds and since having my first child, fell in love with the philosophies of Dr. Maria Montessori.  I enjoy the years-long continuity of materials, the correction of error, and the separation of the senses built into the Montessori designs. My hobbies include exploring this amazing world with the interest of my children at heart, designing my living space, and living whole food plant based for longevity and the health of the planet.  The Sunrise Staff and Families love Liz's computer skills and jack of all trades approach to any school need.