Peninsula Montessori Academy at Easton
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Serving Children 18 months - 5 years
To learn more and schedule a tour please click the link below.
Michael Clapis M.Ed., AMI - Head of School
Michael is a dedicated and visionary educator with a passion for child-directed learning. A Hartford native, he earned his
B.A. in Creative Writing from the University of Hartford in 2011. In 2014, Michael moved to Tokyo, where he
spent several years teaching English across a variety of school settings. His most formative experience
came at an international daycare center, where he led interdisciplinary projects with mixed-age groups of
young learners. These early years solidified his commitment to hands-on, experiential education rooted in curiosity, critical thinking, and creativity.
Upon returning to Connecticut in 2021, Michael was introduced to the Montessori method. Struck by
Montessori’s emphasis on intrinsic motivation through positive discipline led him to pursue formal training.
He earned his AMI Primary diploma through the Montessori Training Center Northeast (MTCNE) and holds a Master of Education in Early Childhood from the University of Hartford.
Michael believes early childhood is a time when children begin to construct their sense of self and
understanding of the world. Through the Montessori approach, he champions a learning environment that
nurtures self-reliance, cultural awareness, and respect for the natural world. As an educational leader, he is
committed to cultivating inclusive, joyful communities where each child is seen, heard, and empowered to
reach their full potential.
"I believe every child deserves a quality education that meets their needs, celebrates their talents, and reveals to them a world of discovery beyond the bounds of a classroom."
Michael - Head of School
Meet Our Teachers
Michael Clapis, M.Ed., AMI -Primary Lead
Michael Clapis, M.Ed., AMI -Primary Lead
Michael Clapis, M.Ed., AMI -Primary Lead
Michael is a dedicated educator with a passion for child-directed learning. A Hartford native, he earned his
B.A. in Creative Writing from the University of Hartford in 2011. In 2014, Michael moved to Tokyo, where he
spent several years teaching English across a variety of school settings. His most formative experience
came at an internation
Michael is a dedicated educator with a passion for child-directed learning. A Hartford native, he earned his
B.A. in Creative Writing from the University of Hartford in 2011. In 2014, Michael moved to Tokyo, where he
spent several years teaching English across a variety of school settings. His most formative experience
came at an international daycare center, where he led interdisciplinary projects with mixed-age groups of
young learners. These early years solidified his commitment to hands-on, experiential education rooted in curiosity, critical thinking, and creativity.
Upon returning to Connecticut in 2021, Michael was introduced to the Montessori method. Struck by
Montessori’s emphasis on intrinsic motivation through positive discipline, he later pursued formal training.
He earned his AMI Primary diploma through the Montessori Training Center Northeast (MTCNE) and holds a Master of Education in Early Childhood from the University of Hartford.
Michael believes early childhood is a time when children begin to construct their sense of self and
understanding of the world. Through the Montessori approach, he champions a learning environment that
nurtures self-reliance, cultural awareness, and respect for the natural world. As an educational leader, he is
committed to cultivating inclusive, joyful communities where each child is seen, heard, and empowered to
reach their full potential.
Angela Sicina, M.Ed., AMS -Toddler Lead
Michael Clapis, M.Ed., AMI -Primary Lead
Michael Clapis, M.Ed., AMI -Primary Lead
Angela is a dedicated and experienced Montessori teacher. She holds a dual Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education and Special Education, as well as a Master’s Degree in Reading focused on Elementary Education. Angela has acquired her Primary Montessori Credential from CMTE|NY and is trained in Positive Discipline and Syntropy and
Angela is a dedicated and experienced Montessori teacher. She holds a dual Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education and Special Education, as well as a Master’s Degree in Reading focused on Elementary Education. Angela has acquired her Primary Montessori Credential from CMTE|NY and is trained in Positive Discipline and Syntropy and is in the process of earning her Montessori Infant and Toddler credential.
Angela is passionate about the Montessori Movement and its child-centered, inclusive approach to education that fosters intrinsic motivation. She loves the motto “Follow the child” and aligns deeply with Maria Montessori's philosophy.
In her classroom, she incorporates music, movement, story time, and social-emotional learning opportunities to ensure children feel validated and respected. Angela is excited to join the Peninsula Montessori Academy team!