Ms. Alyssa Pazos: Apple for a Lifetime
From a student in Edgewater to a teacher in Hoboken and now an administrator sharing her expertise with the next generation of leaders, Alyssa Pazos has been a part of the Apple family for decades. Today, Ms. Pazos discusses her fondest school memories, how the Montessori philosophy continues to serve her, what makes Apple Montessori special, and more:
AppleMontessoriSchools.com: Tell us a little about yourself and what your role at Apple is today.
Alyssa Pazos: I've been with Apple Montessori Schools in a professional capacity for 10 years, and during that time I’ve had the opportunity to grow in a variety of roles that have shaped my understanding of early childhood education. Each experience has strengthened my commitment to creating a nurturing, supportive environment for children, families, and staff alike. In my current role as a Mentor Director, I have the privilege of sharing my knowledge and experience with new staff, administrators, and families, helping them learn about Apple Montessori's philosophy, practices, and culture. My goal is to ensure that everyone who joins our community feels informed, supported, and inspired to uphold the exceptional standards that make Apple Montessori so special.
AMS.com: You're an Apple alum who now works for Apple. How did that come about?
AP: From a very young age, I’ve had a deep love for working with children and helping them grow. After college, I was exploring opportunities in early childhood education when I noticed that Apple Montessori had expanded into Hoboken and was hiring. I applied right away and had the privilege of interviewing with Ms. Piccolo, one of the daughters of our founders Rex and Jane Bailey. We instantly connected, and I was offered a position as a teacher-in-training. That moment marked the beginning of my journey with Apple, and I've been proud to grow with the organization ever since.
AMS.com: What do you most remember about your time here as a student? What school did you attend?
AP: I attended Apple Montessori in Edgewater, and to this day, some of my favorite childhood memories come from my time there—especially during my Kindergarten year. I remember the pure joy of learning through play, the excitement of special events, the warmth and care of the teachers who made every day feel special, and of course the POOL! One of the most meaningful parts for me was getting to work with the younger children. Even back then, I felt a deep sense of pride in helping them and being seen as a role model. Those early experiences sparked my love for nurturing others and truly set the foundation for the path I’m on today.
AMS.com: How do you feel the Montessori method served you as a child and continues to serve you today?
AP: As I like to say, the entire purpose of the Montessori method is to raise a well-rounded individual in every way—and that's exactly how it served me, both as a child and now as an adult. Montessori gave me a strong foundation of independence and confidence and a genuine love for learning. I was encouraged to explore, lead, and think critically from an early age, and those skills have stayed with me throughout my life. Today, as an administrator, I still draw on those same principles—respect for the child, purposeful work, and fostering a sense of responsibility—as I guide both students and staff. It’s come full circle in the most meaningful way.
AMS.com: What do you want people to know about Apple Montessori?
AP: I want people to know that Apple Montessori is so much more than just a Montessori school. While the Montessori philosophy is our foundation, Apple truly goes above and beyond with a whole-child approach that nurtures every aspect of a child’s development. We offer a rich variety of programs including art enrichment, a unique and effective reading and writing program, sign language, yoga and mindfulness, and technology integration—all designed to inspire curiosity, creativity, and confidence. But what really makes Apple special is the people. The team here is filled with passionate, dedicated educators who show unconditional love and support, not only to the children in their care but also to the families we serve. It's a true community where students, parents, and staff feel seen, valued, and supported every single day. That heart and connection is what makes Apple feel like home.
AMS.com: What is your favorite part of your job?
AP: It's the people—both big and small! I may not be in the classroom every day anymore, but I still find so much joy in connecting with our children, celebrating their milestones, and seeing their confidence grow. Their smiles are a daily reminder of why we do what we do. Now, one of the most rewarding parts of my role as a Mentor Director is getting to support and guide our teachers, administrators, and new team members. I love sharing what I’ve learned over the years—whether it’s about Apple Montessori’s philosophy, classroom practices, or family partnerships—and helping others feel confident and excited in their roles. Working alongside such passionate educators and watching them flourish is just as fulfilling as watching the children thrive. Together, we make Apple the special place it is.
