Faculty & Staff

Susan K. Locke, M.Ed.

Director

For the past 21 years, I have dedicated my life to the Montessori method of education both as a Primary Montessori Guide and a Head of School. As a graduate of the University of Washington and former television producer, I found my life’s work during my search for the perfect school for my daughter Kristine. Upon entering a Montessori classroom, I saw my daughter feel right at home in the beautiful and peaceful environment where students had the freedom to choose their own activities. I was struck by the respect that was shown the children and immediately knew that I wanted to be a Montessori teacher. I went back to school and received my Association Montessori Internationale Primary certification from the Montessori Institute Northwest as well as my Masters in Education from Loyola University in Maryland. I then taught in the Seattle area for 4 years before opening Mercer Island Montessori where I was the Director and Head Montessori Teacher. For twelve years, I ran my own school before becoming the Head of School at the LePort Schools Westpark campus in Irvine, CA. I enjoyed the challenge of leading a larger school with students 18 months to 9 years of age and a diverse team of employees. I am excited to be bringing these skills and experience to my role as Director of such a prestigious institution as Bellevue Montessori School. I love being back in the Pacific Northwest close to my family and the forested hiking trails I have enjoyed since my youth.