Our Staff
Our Director
Black Forest Montessori Co. Director - Mr. Anthony Harper
Mr. Anthony has been with Black Forest Montessori's as the Director since we opened in 2021.
Anthony Harper is a United States Marine Corps veteran, married to Mrs. Acsa, and a father of two children. He has a B.A. degree in Psychology and Masters in Business Administration (MBA). He is primarily responsible for student enrollment, business operations, business financials, and marketing. His daughter Vida age 12, and his son Leonardo age 9, keep him busy when he is not working as the Director.
Our Teachers
Black Forest Montessori Co. Teacher - Mrs. Acsa Harper
Mrs. Acsa (pronounced Axe-Sah) has been a preschool teacher for more than 15 years.
Mrs. Acsa is married to Mr. Anthony and has over 20 years of experience teaching and caring for children. She was a dedicated nanny and preschool teacher before becoming a mother of two.
Acsa' Credentials:
Black Forest Montessori Co. Asst. Teacher - Ms. Rylei
Hi! My name is Rylei and I have been working with kids for as long as I can remember. Every job I've had has been with kids. I graduated from Air Academy High School in 2023 and right now I am going to PPSC working towards my degree in Sonography (ultrasounds). I am hoping to specialize specifically in pediatric sonography. In my free time, I like to hangout with my cat and my boyfriend and when it's hot out, I like to go paddle boarding, fishing or camping!
Black Forest Montessori Co. Asst. Teacher - Ms. Chiqui
Ms. Chiqui (pronounced Cheeky)
Hi Parents! I'm Chiqui. I love working at Black Forest Montessori! I have plenty of experience working with kids from a young age. I have little brothers and younger cousins and have always enjoyed taking care of them. I went to Colorado Springs Early Colleges for high school and got an Associates in Arts degree there as well. Some things I enjoy doing are exploring the natural beauty here in Colorado with my friends, playing tennis, and spending time with my loud Venezuelan family! I am eager to keep meeting all of your kiddos and their unique personalities!
About Black Forest Montessori
Our Story: Where Peaceful Learning Began
Inspired by years of experience working with young children and witnessing the profound impact of authentic Montessori education, Black Forest Montessori was established to bring a calm, intentional alternative to the Colorado Springs community. What began as a small, in-home Montessori school has grown into a warm and thriving environment trusted by families seeking something more meaningful for their child.
For the past four years, families throughout Colorado Springs and surrounding areas have chosen our school because they feel the heart and purpose behind everything we do. They see children becoming confident, peaceful, independent learners, and parents who feel supported, reassured, and connected.
Our Montessori Philosophy & Core Values
Every detail in our classrooms is intentional, from the materials chosen to the layout of the environment. Children are free to choose meaningful work, move with purpose, and explore concepts through real experiences. Practical life lessons build confidence and everyday skills, while Montessori materials open the world of language, mathematics, sensorial learning, creativity, and critical thinking.
Our guides observe closely to understand when each child is ready for new lessons, allowing learning to unfold naturally rather than on a forced timeline. We believe education is a partnership between the child, the family, and the school, and that nurturing the whole child builds strong foundations for life.
Why Families Trust Black Forest Montessori
Parents say they can feel the difference the moment they walk inside our school. They notice the sense of calm, the quiet focus, the warm relationships, and the visible joy in learning. Families choose us because we offer something rare and valuable:
Authentic Montessori education led by a Montessori certified teacher
Peaceful, prepared environments designed for concentration and growth
Low student-to-guide ratios where every child is known and supported
A community-centered approach that feels like family
Spanish language learning integrated naturally into the day
Participation in Child Care Aware programs supporting family access
A reputation for trust, communication, and professional care
Parents frequently share that their children become more confident, independent, gentle, and curious, and that they feel deeply supported in their parenting journey.
Schedule a School Tour
The best way to understand the Black Forest Montessori experience is to visit and see our peaceful classrooms in action. We invite you to schedule a tour, meet our guides, and explore whether our school is the right fit for your family.
Schedule a Tour
Or contact us anytime with questions. We're here to help, and we'd love to meet you.