Staff
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Sammie Salas Teacher |
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Simay Alper Teacher |
| Sammie is a recent college graduate, with the energy and passion for working with children and fostering growth. She received a Bachelor’s in Art from Denison University with a major in Studio Art and minor in Education. She has been a competitive jump rope and diving coach. As a student, Sammie has thrived in an artistic and visual environment, very similar to Tender Roots, and she is looking forward to sharing her interest and enthusiasm with others. Sammie is so intrigued and excited to explore the Reggio philosophy, and embrace Tender Roots and all that it has to offer. | Simay is a dedicated and ambitious educator, with a background in fine arts and design. She has a Bachelor’s in Art and Visual Technology: Graphic Design and a Minor in English from George Mason University. In addition, she is currently in pursuit of a Masters of Art in Teaching at George Mason University. Before coming to Tender Roots, Simay had worked as a teacher assistant at a private school in Fairfax. She is thrilled to begin her teaching years with the Reggio Emilia Approach and loves what it has to offer to the community, children and parents. | ||
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Dusty Rummer Founding Director |
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| Dusty founded Tender Roots in 2006. Prior to opening the school, she taught at Bailey’s Elementary School for the Arts and Science in Falls Church, VA. While in New York City, she was a public elementary school teacher. She received her Reggio training while working at St. John’s Episcopal Preschool in Washington, DC., as well as at various workshops throughout the country. Dusty holds a MS in Teaching, concentrating in Elementary Education from Fordham University and a BS in Communication Arts from Hofstra University. She divides her time between supporting Tender Roots and reaching out to schools in need as an educational consultant. | |||