About US
Mission
Fostering Independence
and Learning
Following the Child
Children learn through choice, movement, and hands-on exploration in carefully prepared classrooms designed for their developmental needs.
Work Cycle
Prepared Environment
The Role of the Adult
Growth of the Whole Child
Natural Language Acquisition
TEAM
Experts in giving your children best start
Our leadership team ensures effective school administration while supporting teachers in their professional growth, helping them excel as facilitators of child development. Guided by Montessori principles, our teachers tailor the curriculum to each child’s needs, creating enriched learning environments.
Marilyn Medrano
Founder & CEO
Marilyn Medrano is the heart and visionary behind Estrellitas Montessori School. With over 18 years of experience in early childhood education, she is a passionate advocate for the Montessori philosophy, Spanish immersion learning, and inclusive environments where children and families feel truly seen and valued.
I dreamed of a place where children could flourish, families could unite, and our heritage could be celebrated. Estrellitas Montessori School is that dream come to life.
She is a certified Montessori Infant–Toddler educator (AMS) and holds dual Bachelor’s degrees in Business Administration and Economics, blending pedagogical depth with strategic leadership. This unique combination has allowed her to build and sustain a high quality, mission-driven program that supports both children and the broader community.
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Today, Marilyn continues to lead with vision, heart, and intention, guiding a reflective and committed team that prioritizes observation, growth, and the well-being of every child, while cultivating a vibrant school community rooted in love, language, and respect.
Outside of her work, Marilyn enjoys cooking Argentine asado, spending time outdoors with her family, and proudly cheering from the sidelines as a devoted soccer mom—moments that reflect the spirit of Estrellitas: a place where children are free to shine with their own light.
Cristina Encinas
Director of Operations
Cristina Encinas has dedicated her career to inclusive, equitable, and child-centered education. She brings a deep commitment to creating environments where children feel respected, supported, and encouraged to grow at their own pace.
She holds Montessori certification from the Northeast Montessori Institute and Infant & Toddler certification from the New York Center for Montessori Studies Her academic background includes a B.A. in Human Services, as well as two master’s degrees: one in Educational Administration (Trinity College) and another in Early Childhood Special Education (Catholic University). These credentials reflect her strong foundation in early childhood development and educational leadership.
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Outside of her professional role, Cristina enjoys cooking and experimenting with flavors from around the world, an expression of her love for culture, creativity, and community.
Brenda Vasquez Bercian
Center Director
Brenda Vásquez Bercian is the Center Director at Estrellitas Montessori School, where she leads both the Pre-K Enhancement and Expansion Program (PKEEP) and the 0–3 program, two cornerstones of our mission to provide inclusive, high-quality early childhood education.
Originally from El Salvador, Brenda brings her cultural heritage, native language, and a deep sense of community into the daily rhythm of the center. Her presence strengthens children’s identity, belonging, and cultural pride, while enriching the linguistic and cultural diversity of our staff.
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Committed to shared leadership, reflection, and continuous professional growth, Brenda collaborates closely with families and educators to cultivate a warm and inclusive environment where children can thrive.
Outside of her professional role, Brenda enjoys reading, discovering local coffee shops, exploring nature, and spending meaningful time with her family.
Yamilet Medrano
Operations Manager
Yamilet Medrano has been a valued member of Estrellitas Montessori School since 2019, contributing her steady leadership and commitment to the well-being of children, families, and staff. Born and raised in Washington, DC, she brings a strong connection to the local community and a deep understanding of the families we serve.
She holds an Associate Degree and a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration at Trinity Washington University, reflecting her dedication to continuous learning and professional growth.
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Outside of work, Yamilet enjoys playing soccer, taking nature walks, and spending quality time with her family, activities that bring balance and joy to her life.
Denisse Velásquez Del Pozo
Admissions Manager
Denisse Velásquez Del Pozo joined Estrellitas Montessori School in 2025, bringing a strong background in law, administrative coordination, education, and community engagement. As Admissions Manager, she serves as a warm, professional, and reliable point of contact for families navigating the enrollment process.
She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Law, a foundation that strengthens her commitment to equity, transparency, and clear communication, all essential values in supporting families through admissions. Denisse plays a key role in fostering trusting family–school partnerships, helping create an inclusive environment where every family feels welcomed and informed.
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Outside of her professional role, Denisse enjoys spending time outdoors with her beloved pets, bringing warmth and balance to her everyday life.
Our History
From a Parent’s Dream to a Thriving Montessori Community
Like many parents, Marilyn Medrano searched for an early childhood program that aligned with her values—high-quality education that also honored her family’s Argentine heritage through the Spanish language. What she found was a gap: limited bilingual options, long waiting lists, and no Montessori Spanish immersion programs for children under age three in the D.C. metropolitan area.
Rather than compromise, she chose to create what did not yet exist.
Founded in 2008, Estrellitas Montessori School became the region’s first Montessori program to offer full Spanish immersion for infants and toddlers from birth to age three. What began as a small home-based program quickly grew into a trusted community rooted in respect, independence, and cultural pride.
“Every child deserves to be treated with respect and given the tools to grow into an independent, curious member of their community.”
OUR JOURNEY
What began as a small, home-based program has grown into a trusted Montessori School serving children and families across the DC region rooted in culture, language, and a deep commitment to high quality early childhood education.
Estrellitas Montessori School was founded as a home-based daycare.
Our first campus opened at 5331 Colorado Avenue NW, serving three classrooms.
The school expanded to five classrooms.
Estrellitas Montessori School achieved full membership with the American Montessori Society (AMS).
The school received MEPI Accreditation (Montessori Educational Program International).
A year of growth and innovation:
- Launched the Brillando Summer Camp and After-School Program.
- Expanded to nine total classrooms.
- Introduced the Pre-K Enhancement & Expansion Program (PKEEP).
Opened a second campus: Estrellitas Montessori Takoma (Maryland).
Became a MACTE- certified MOLAT Training Center.
Inaugurated a new on-site playground at the DC main Campus.