Our Mission
Maple Tree Montessori Tutoring was created because I believe quality education should not be a luxury. I truly believe in the learning power of Montessori and the way it allows children to explore concepts, make connections, solve problems, and build understanding for themselves. Montessori is about developing the whole child and raising independent thinkers—not children who simply memorize answers.
But as we have all seen in the past and present, Montessori learning has been marketed as a premium form of education, with the name often being used to justify higher tuition in private schools and childcare. As a teacher who believes deeply in the Montessori philosophy, I find it frustrating that an approach built around meeting children where they are can become something many families cannot afford.
I don’t believe access to thoughtful, individualized education should depend on family income. That is why Maple Tree uses a sliding-scale model. Families can contribute at a level that is sustainable for them while receiving the same quality of instruction, individualized support, and Montessori-based learning.
I combine Montessori methods with HISD/TEKS standards to help children truly understand what they are learning while building confidence, independence, and a strong foundation for long-term success.
Meet Your Montessori Guide
Hi! I’m Ashten Sommer, the educator behind Maple Tree Montessori Tutoring.
I have over 6 years of classroom experience and a background in elementary education, reading, Montessori, and public education. I earned my B.S. in Elementary Education (K–6) from Utah Valley University and a Master’s Degree in Reading with an Emphasis in Education from the University of Phoenix.
For the past several years, I have taught in public Montessori classrooms, including classrooms where more than 80% of students are English Language Learners. My experience has taught me that children do not all learn in the same way or at the same pace. Montessori has given me the tools to meet children where they are while still holding high academic expectations.
I am GT and ESL certified and Montessori Early Childhood trained and certified through the American Montessori Society. I have also created curriculum in math, language, cultural heritage, and activism, including work designed to support students with HISD academic expectations and testing.
In 2023, I was honored to receive the Beginning Teacher of the Year award at Baker Montessori.
Most importantly, I’m a teacher who believes children are capable of much more when they are given the right support, time, and opportunities to understand how they learn.
My goal through Maple Tree is to bring that same individualized, Montessori-centered approach to tutoring while making it accessible to more families. I can’t wait to meet you and your child. Let’s grow together!
Why Maple Tree Tutoring?
Child-First Approach
Everything we do is built around understanding your child’s needs and helping them succeed—because when they thrive, so do we.
Sliding-Scale Affordability
We take into consideration your financial needs and allow all children from all walks of life the ability to access Montessori tutoring. Education—for all.
Anti-Bias, Anti-Racist Teaching
Anti-Bias, Anti-Racist (ABAR) and culturally responsive teaching is practiced, honoring each child’s identity, family, and culture. Every student will feel seen, valued, and empowered.