We Are VdM: Chung Yi Cheng

The very best part of Villa di Maria is our people. Our community of families, faculty and staff is something to be proud of. In this series, We are VdM, we’ll highlight the energies, talents, humor and wisdom of some of our amazing people. Today, we’ll meet Chung Yi Cheng, afternoon assistant in the P2 Children's House classroom. Chung Yi has been a sub and member of our late-stay team for several years, as well as the teacher in our after-school Mandarin club. Her attention to detail and her calm and comforting demeanor bless both staff and students alike! We are thrilled to have Chung Yi as a full-time member of our staff this semester!

How did you discover Montessori?

I was introduced to Montessori through a local Montessori school summer camp as an assistant and then as an after-hour program assistant before coming to Villa. I completed the AMI orientation course and have been to one conference and one workshop.

What do you like about Montessori?

I like that it respects individual development. Montessori guides teach individually or in groups and do not evaluate students' value based on grades. I like how Montessori provides real-world experience, and cultivates children's independence.

What did you want to be when you grew up?

I always wanted to be an architect and interior designer, but the education system in Taiwan kept me from getting close to my dream.

What is your favorite thing to do on the weekend?

I like to be in the studio to create art from my thoughts, in the kitchen to make some yummy food for people I care about, or walking and traveling with my husband.Here's Chung Yi giving a lesson on colors in Mandarin. It is so exciting to be able to offer a bilingual experience to children!Welcome, Chung Yi, we're so glad you're here!