Faculty & Staff

Becca Nakamura

Sequoia Co-Teacher

I am a graduate of the University of Washington and Western Washington University, with a bachelor’s degree in anthropology and a master’s degree in education. I have been a lead Primary teacher since 2010. I began my Montessori Elementary training in 2024, and served as the Magnolia classroom intern before graduating and becoming the Sequoia classroom co-teacher. Before I discovered Montessori, I spent 10 years working with children and adults with special needs; I was a caregiver at an adult family home for several years, and then I was a paraeducator in a public middle school for what was then called an “Emotional/Behavior Disorder” program, and for 4 years I was a camp counselor at a camp for adults with disabilities.

I was introduced to Montessori in 2007 when I worked as an assistant in a Montessori classroom, work that I continued for about four years before beginning graduate school for Education. I was pleasantly surprised at how children were able to learn so effectively and joyfully! I struggled in traditional school through high school, and I decided that I wanted to devote my career to helping children reach their full potential, and actually enjoy learning! It has been the most rewarding gift to watch children grow through the three-year cycle. 

My own children have attended Montessori school since they were two years old– I was even my daughter’s kindergarten and first grade teacher! I see my children’s curiosity rewarded every year in their Montessori classrooms. I couldn’t imagine a more loving, accommodating, and fulfilling educational experience for them. 



I was born and raised in Redmond before moving to Seattle. I enjoy spending time with my children, who are both BMS Elementary students, and my husband, Travis. We spend a lot of time on Orcas Island, crabbing, relaxing, and enjoying the beauty of the island. I love to do yoga, weightlifting, and running. If I had a day to myself, I would take a nap with my two Siamese cats, then go shopping! I am fortunate that my brother, sisters and parents live in the Northwest, so my children and I have plenty of opportunities to spend time with family.