Jennie Brown
Seedlings Teacher & Education Director
Jennie is passionate about the power of play and nature in children's development and follows the Montessori principles of observation and following the child’s lead. Jennie is committed to fostering respect for each child, nurturing social-emotional growth, and encouraging a lifelong love of learning through hands-on, process-based exploration. She sees these values reflected at wBees and is thrilled to be entering her fifth year with the school. She brings over 20 years of experience as a preschool teacher, a mother, and a dedicated community member who deeply values connection to nature and care for the Earth. She finds endless inspiration in the joy, honesty, and “in-the-moment-ness” of young children—qualities that guide the way she lives her life.
Jennie holds a Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education and is certified in Early Childhood Education in New York State. Since 2007, she has taught in both Brooklyn and Queens and has also run her own nature- and play-based early childhood program. She is currently enrolled in West Side Montessori’s Teacher Education Program for Montessori Administration. Outside the classroom, Jennie enjoys reading, hiking, swimming, gardening, and spending time adventuring with her two children, now 13 and 16.
10 Questions with Teacher Jennie!
What is your favorite part of working in early childhood?
My favorite part of my work is, of course, the children! I love their joy and wonder. I love watching them grow and learn. It is truly an honor to witness this time of life and get to be a part of their learning.
Is there a memory, teacher, or experience from your own education that impacts the way you approach teaching?
My Dad was a teacher. My mom babysat the entire neighborhood after school. As a young child, I pretended to be a teacher with my stuffed animals and my sister as students. It's in my blood!
If you were a classroom material, what would you be and why?
I would be a pencil - sometimes I'm sharp, sometimes I'm dull but I'm always useful! Ha ha!
What's your go-to school dance party song?
My lovely co-worker Becca and I used to play the B-52's Rock Lobster in class a lot. It’s a banger!
If you could learn anything new right now, what would it be?
I would study acupuncture or occupational therapy or maybe painting.
What are you reading right now?
Ocean Vuong's Emperor of Gladness - so good!
What's your favorite thing to do during school breaks?
I enjoy traveling during school breaks and going on adventures with my kids who are 13 and 16. This summer, we went upstate to hike and swim and to Montreal, where we rode through insane white water rapids on a speed boat!
What's one thing you think adults can learn from young children?
I think adults can learn how to be in the moment from children. I also think we can be reminded that it is the process that matters, not the product.
Where is your favorite place to connect with nature? Why?
The Catskills! I love the water and the mountains. Also, the beach. I love to stare out across the water, get too much sun and then take a cold swim!