GMS Scottsville Teachers
Rita Pace
she/her
Director
I have worked in early childhood education for nearly 30 years. In that time, I have cared for over a hundred children in the Charlottesville area. Most importantly, I love working with young children as they first begin to develop their individual personalities. I have my Infant and Toddler Certification from the American Montessori Society, and I believe each child develops in a way that is unique to him or her. I specialize in creating educational environments for infants and toddlers that foster growth and independence, and my goal is to work with parents to fully meet their child’s unique cognitive, emotional, social and physical needs.
Christina Martin
she/her
Lead Teacher, Primary Room
I grew up as a military child moving with my family throughout the United states as well as living in different countries including the Netherlands and Germany. I finished High school in Charlottesville Virginia, then attended Liberty University, where I graduated with a bachelors of science in Studio and Digital Arts. I have used my passion for art in tandem with my passion for education to touch the lives of children as they develop in their independence and grow cognitively. I truly enjoy working with children and assisting them on their unique individual growth journeys. I look forward to learning from the leadership at GMS and building strong relationships with the children, staff and families.
Lauren Toms
she/her
Lead Teacher, Infant/Toddler
I grew up here in Charlottesville, I went to Albemarle High School and then moved on to study psychology at Longwood University. While I was in school is when I began working with children, where I worked as a swim coach both here in Charlottesville and in my tiny college town of Farmville. After college, I continued coaching until I found my way to GMS where I am now beginning my fourth year! I am currently working on obtaining my Infant and Toddler Certification from the American Montessori Society. I have grown to love and appreciate the Montessori method and how it takes each child’s individual needs into special consideration. I look forward to another great year with all of our amazing children, their families, and staff.
Sarah Burton
she/her
Teacher's Assistant, Infant/Toddler Room
I was raised in the heart of Virginia and have always had a connection to the outdoors. This led me to earn a certification as a National Geographic educator. I believe teaching is about more than imparting knowledge—it's about guiding children to discover their own place in the world, nurturing their confidence, and helping them blossom into emotionally resilient individuals. I earned my master’s degree in elementary education from James Madison University and a Virginia state teaching license. I recently became a mother and this has deepened my understanding of the early years and how precious they are. I enjoy simple moments shared with my husband, baby girl, and our beloved Bernedoodle. I believe that learning never stops—and I hope to help instill this magic in every child I meet.
Tanya Vaughan
she/her
Teacher's Assistant, Infant/Toddler Room
I am an easy-going person who enjoys taking hikes, reading and listening to music, and going to concerts. My favorite place to energize is on a beach. I enjoy working with kids and see it as a way to relearn new/old ideas from their eyes. I believe that kids also give you a brighter perspective on everyday life. I am also the proud mother of a Marine.