Our Team

Melissa Bentley	Tammy Jackson
31 Years Teaching mbentley@manzanodayschool.org	31 Years Teaching tjackson@manzanodayschool.org

 

Tell us a little about yourselves!

Melissa: "I am thrilled to be starting my 21st year in pre-kindergarten at Manzano Day School! The years have certainly flown by. I have lived in New Mexico for many years, but I am originally from New York City.  I am also the proud mom of two boys, now in their twenties, who are both Manzano alumni and are now launching into their adult lives."

Tammy: "I am an Albuquerque native with thirty years of experience as a teacher of young children. My husband is a retired educator with forty years of experience in the private sector, and we have a 22-year-old son. We enjoy traveling and spending time with our families."

What is your philosophy on teaching?

Melissa: "My philosophy has evolved  just as I have evolved as an educator and life-long learner. I believe that children are naturally resourceful, competent, and deserving of love and respect in a safe, nurturing, and beautiful environment. Children learn best when their space and time at school is joyful, child-centered, and supports play, curiosity, and discovery." 

Tammy: "I recognize that happy, healthy, and engaged children meet with success.  To this end I implement balanced, active, and integrated experiences through play, explorations, teacher lead instruction, and co-curricular activities, providing a well rounded pre-K program.  We strive to build confidence, to achieve competence, and to enhance independence. "