Montessori Instruction and Innovation Department
Jeremy Akiyama, Director of Assessment and Mathematics Instruction
Jeremy is central to the CMP Math Vision and will lead the charge in developing recommendations for current mathematics curriculum implementations and adjustments. Jeremy will be instrumental in guiding the curriculum adoption process, engaging stakeholders, and ensuring decisions are evidence-based to align with CMP's vision for mathematics. He is also the key contact for the Math Pilot Team, which will play a crucial role in testing and providing feedback on curriculum choices. Jeremy will also lead the CMP initiatives around common core and state mandated assessments, a key driver in CMP’s ability to demonstrate the amazing outcomes of our students.
Melanie Brown, Director of Montessori and English Language Arts/English Language Development Instruction
Melanie is a visionary Montessori leader, curriculum specialist, and teacher educator. A Sacramento native and mother of four children who all attended Montessori schools, she brings both a professional and deeply personal understanding of the Montessori philosophy to her work. With over 25 years of experience, Melanie has dedicated her career to blending authentic Montessori practices with Common Core State Standards to create equitable, high-impact educational environments for children and adults.
As a founding director of the Modern Montessori Teacher Education College (MMTEC), Melanie leads credentialing programs that are MACTE-accredited and AMS-affiliated, training future educators across the U.S. She also serves as a lead teacher and curriculum designer for the California Montessori Project, where she has developed innovative thematic cycles, led field studies, mentored educators, and championed Montessori integration at the elementary and secondary school levels.
She is further working on a Doctorate in Educational Leadership, where she is developing a theory for Cosmic Education in the secondary classroom that enhances social-emotional learning.
A published author and national speaker, she is known for transforming complex standards into joyful, inquiry-based experiences. Her expertise spans classroom design, differentiated instruction, depth of knowledge, and Socratic seminar facilitation. Currently pursuing her doctorate in Innovation in Education, Melanie continues to advocate for child-centered learning, teacher empowerment, and systems that honor the developmental needs of every learner—across all stages of life.
Katey Dodd, Director of Montessori Implementation
Katey brings over a decade of experience in Montessori education, instructional leadership, and adult learning to her role as Director of Montessori Implementation at the California Montessori Project. With a strong foundation in Montessori pedagogy, Social Emotional Learning (SEL), and Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS), Katey is committed to supporting educators, students, and families across CMP’s network.
In this role, Katey collaborates closely with guides, specialists, Deans of Students, and Principals to integrate Montessori principles into every layer of instructional practice and school culture. She leads efforts to implement Tier 1 and Tier 2 supports within a Montessori framework, links PBIS and SEL to peace education, and promotes service and experiential learning. She also provides strategic leadership in curriculum development, instructional coaching, and observation.
Katey conducts biannual Montessori fidelity audits, develops tools for peer and self-assessment, and creates resources to guide the implementation of supplemental curriculum aligned with Common Core State Standards (CCSS) and Depth of Knowledge (DOK) principles. Her leadership in professional development includes a tiered teacher growth model, instructional coaching cycles, and the creation of weekly lesson planning resources.
A co-founder of the Modern Montessori Teacher Education College and an experienced presenter at national and regional conferences, Katey is a dedicated advocate for authentic Montessori education. She holds dual master’s degrees in Montessori Education and Instructional Leadership, and is currently completing her Ph.D. in Instructional Design, with a focus on peace education, SEL, and PBIS integration.
Through her work, Katey strengthens classroom practice, fosters inclusive and culturally responsive environments, and builds strong connections with families through Montessori Family Education Programs. Her vision and leadership help ensure CMP remains at the forefront of Montessori innovation and educational excellence.