ANNOUNCEMENT


BAMA and CMA Merge to Form a Stronger Montessori Community

Palo Alto, CA – The Bay Area Montessori Association (BAMA) and the California Montessori Alliance (CMA) are thrilled to announce their merger, effective September 1, 2024. This strategic union creates a powerful force for Montessori education in California by combining both organizations’ expertise, resources, and statewide reach.

Founded in 1997, the Bay Area Montessori Association (BAMA) has supported Northern California teachers, parents, and administrators by hosting in-person and online events with a strong focus on professional development. The California Montessori Alliance (CMA), founded in 2022, has centered its mission on statewide advocacy for all California Montessorians, with an initial focus on pathways for Montessori credential recognition.

As part of the merger, Mary Beth Ricks, outgoing President of BAMA, transitions to the role of CMA Treasurer. Emma Johnston León, a founding board member of CMA, assumes the role of President of the merged organization. Pat M. Yulo, a long-term BAMA Board Member, serves as Vice President, Megan Ricks, a founding board member of CMA, will serve as Secretary, and Robin Stearns, also a founding board member of CMA, will serve as Membership Chair.

This leadership transition reflects both organizations’ commitment to a seamless merger and a strong, unified future for Montessori education in California.The merger will provide numerous benefits to the Montessori community, including:

  • Enhanced advocacy: A unified voice will strengthen our ability to advocate for Montessori education at the state, local, and national levels.

  • Increased resources: Combined resources will support professional development, teacher training, and curriculum development.

  • Expanded network: A larger network will foster collaboration, sharing of best practices, and support for Montessori schools and programs throughout California.

By joining forces, BAMA and CMA aim to:

  • Promote the growth and development of Montessori schools in California.

  • Support Montessori teachers in their professional journey.

  • Raise awareness of the benefits of Montessori education among parents, educators, and policymakers. 

  • Advance Montessori as an accessible option for all Californian children.

This merger is a significant step forward in our shared mission to provide high-quality Montessori education to children throughout the state.

With Gratitude,
Emma Johnston León, President
Pat M. Yulo, Vice President
Mary Beth Ricks, Treasurer
Megan Ricks, Secretary
Robin Stearns, Membership