Today we’d like to introduce you to Estela Ramírez.
Hi Estela, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
When I started college, I was lost. I did not know what major to pursue. I took an infinite amount of classes (or so it seemed so) when I randomly took a Child Development class. In this class, I learned that there are different teaching methods in Early Childhood Education–one of them is the Montessori philosophy. The Montessori philosophy “believes that every child should be given the chance to learn at their own pace. This is the reason children are given time for individualized learning where they can discover their passion and develop their natural curiosity”–Montessori School of Downtown. The teacher acts as a guide, supporting the children’s development. I fell in love! Thus, I decided to pursue it. I dropped out of college and looked for a school where I could get certified to teach the Montessori philosophy. I found a school in Tijuana, Mexico, that taught this universal practice. I finished school and received my certification! I did my apprenticeship program here in San Diego, and I ended up getting hired and stayed there for three years.
After holding a lead teacher position in different schools, I realized I wanted my own school. I decided to begin a journey of entrepreneurship. I was set to start my own business with my biggest passion–Early Childhood Education. And so Developpe Montessori was born. Developpe is a home-based Bilingual Montessori. I chose the name Developpe, which means development in French because my focus is to encourage the child’s maximum development.
My journey has been very emotional and challenging, but with a lot of support from my parents, I have been able to fulfill my dream of opening a safe, warm, and welcoming school for the community. My school has been successful due to the love and support that we provide to our students. My staff is professional and well trained in the Montessori philosophy as well.
I am enjoying this stage of my life, and I have bigger plans. There is more to come!
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
It has not been a smooth road. I got pregnant, and the pandemic happened just when I was going to open my business. Both events postponed my plans. I was anxious and frustrated not knowing what was going to happen in the world. In February of 2021, I started to look for a location. I then encountered the real estate issues. It was hard to find the right location. Not only did I want it to fulfill all my expectation, but it had to feel right. After several months of searching, I finally found it–the perfect neighborhood. Once everything was finalized, I started to bring my project to life. My father has been of great support. He helped me materialized my vision by creating the perfect space for children to learn.
I am currently attending Point Loma Nazarene to get my bachelor’s degree in Child and Adolescent Development. Going to school, while being a mom of two children has been challenging. It has been emotionally and physically draining, but I have pushed through and it makes me feel proud of myself. Overall, I would not change a thing. This has taught me that I can accomplish anything with perseverance and the best support system–my family.
We’ve been impressed with Developpe Home-based Montessori, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Developpe is a home-based Montessori, where we specialized in creating a safe space for children to explore and develop their skills–independence, discipline, and concentration. We are a bilingual Montessori, as well. We work with children ages two to five years old. We are family-oriented, and we like to create moments where our families can interact with each other. We are a space where children feel loved and respected. We are an inclusive environment; everybody is welcome!!! We are open Monday trough Friday from 7:00 am to 2:00 pm and we offer extended care until 5:00 pm.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
You have to be persistent and to have a clear vision of your idea. A lot of people will try to dissuade you from your goals, but you have to continue to believe in you. You must surround yourself with people that believe in and support your dreams. I advise you to find a mentor that will guide you along the way. Someone that knows what you are going to face and can advise you.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @developpe.19
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DeveloppeHomeBasedMontessori/
