Our Team
Our school is operated by its teachers, which allows for a seamless response to classroom and administrative needs.
Shanel Ingram
Shanel began her Montessori career as an Assistant Teacher here at Sea Lavender Montessori. She is currently enrolled in the Elementary Diploma program Montessori Northwest via Whitworth University.
Shanel graduated from Rutgers University with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and has worked as a Substitute Teacher in the Asbury Park School District for Pre-K to 3rd grades. She is the Asbury Park Area Director for STEAMpark, Inc., a non-profit that provides enriching and educational after-school programs geared towards STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math). In her role, she has organized summer Camps, a Tech Summit, and Coding Camp for students in 3rd-8th grade during their breaks from school. In addition, she is a STEM teacher for their STEMgirls and STEAMpark Trenton Academy Programs.
Shanel is an Assistant for the T. Thomas Fortune Foundation & Cultural Center, a non-profit organization whose mission is to preserve and further the civil rights and social justice legacy of T. Thomas Fortune through community outreach, education, the arts, and public programming. She also serves on the Board of Directors for the RMW Foundation, Inc., Inspire Life, and the Brookdale Community College Foundation.
Her hobbies include traveling, all things Disney, and quality time with family and friends. Shanel’s desire is to spread love and encouragement and help people understand that they are necessary in this world.
Nicole Bacak
Nicole Bacak is a distinguished Montessori educator with an extensive career spanning over a decade. Her expertise and sought-after skills have garnered recognition from Montessori institutions across the United States. Holding an AMI Primary Diploma from the Washington Montessori Institute and a Master's in Education from Loyola University Maryland, Nicole's dedication to the Montessori philosophy is truly exemplary.
Nicole's devotion to family is a cornerstone of her life. She is a loving mother to two wonderful daughters who bring boundless joy and inspiration to her journey. As she nurtures young minds in the classroom, Nicole's own family remains a driving force, reminding her of the importance of fostering growth and creativity in every aspect of life.
Nicole's journey in education has been marked by notable achievements. Prior to her role at Sea Lavender Montessori, she worked as a Primary Lead Guide and Elementary Assistant Guide at Goodwater Montessori Public Charter School in Georgetown, Texas. Her commitment extended beyond work with children as she served as a Course Assistant at three prestigious AMI training centers nationwide. Nicole's influence has also reached fellow educators through engaging workshops on Montessori material-making and as a consultant for the Montessori Accreditation Council for Teacher Education (MACTE).
A true advocate for the Montessori movement, Nicole Bacak is fueled by a passionate mission to ensure accessible Montessori education for all. Her dedication, coupled with a wealth of experience, continues to shape the landscape of Montessori education, leaving an indelible impact on both students and fellow educators alike.