Our team
Juliet Thompson-Fournier
Preschool Coordinator
New to the team this year is Canadian Juliet Thompson-Fournier. Juliet has a Montessori background, which she strengthens by integrating additional education ideas into her classroom, particularly the concept that early exposure to music is highly beneficial to a child’s development. She introduces music fundamentals into the classroom in the same manner that writing, mathematics and art are brought to our students.
Since coming to France over seven years ago Juliet has taught at various private bilingual and Montessori schools in the Paris area. Juliet’s teaching philosophy is deeply rooted in knowing that each child progresses at their speed. We are happy to welcome Juliet as the PSMA School Coordinator.
Director’s Note:
The first thing that impressed me when I saw Juliet in situ was the extraordinary contact she established almost instantly with each child. Faced with a child who was NOT comfortable in a new environment, and who did NOT want to communicate, Juliet began simply to take apart a puzzle, handing each piece to the recalcitrant child without a word. Within minutes the child was actively engaging with Juliet physically and verbally! I love coming into the classroom during « circle time » for example. The level of quiet concentration is extraordinary. Whether Juliet is reading a story or singing a song, she has the absolute attention of every child, and yet she never raises her voice!
Ana Maria Chaparro Sandoval
Ana Maria was born in Bogotá, Columbia in 1980. She studied at the ICBA (Institute for Culture and Fine Arts) and the Central University of Bogotá where she obtained her degree in Music, with a specialization in the oboe. She then taught music theory and the oboe in the Columbian Youth Orchestra, where she was a featured soloist in several concerto performances. She also taught « music and movement » and piano in local kindergartens.Ana Maria is currently completing her Masters degree in Music and Musicology at the Sorbonne in Paris. She joined the Preschool faculty and the Koenig School in 2008.
Director’s Note:
Ana Maria regularly enchants our young students by seamlessly switching from singing to playing the recorder, the piano, the oboe, the piano and the guitar. Her wide instrumental spectrum and her passion for early childhood musical education make her a valuable addition to our faculty.