Living Hope Montessori School

Meet the team.

Calley Reed

Founder &
Executive Director

Mrs. Calley holds her bachelors degree in developmental psychology/ and has a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education in the Montessori classroom. Calley further holds a Master’s degree in clinical mental health and counseling, and is a practicing therapist (PLPC). Calley’s role at LHM is to aid in needs related to the daily workings of the school, oversee the needs of the student body, and monitor the vision, culture, and impact of the school within the community and region.

Pastor Danny Reed

Pastoral Oversight and Spiritual Growth

Pastor Danny guides the school culture in walking out implementation of the values and vision set in place as a Ministry.

Kirsten Thurman

Lead Administrator

Kirsten comes to us with 10 years of teaching experience both in California and in Louisiana. She holds her master’s degree in teaching and brings much wisdom and experience to the table. She manages a multitude of administrative tasks and organizes volunteer and fundraising teams.

Pastor John Thurman

Marketing Leader

Pastor John Thurman is the head of marketing and community education for Living Hope. He is full time youth pastor for One Generation youth ministry at Cornerstone church.

Pastor Todd Welch

Chief Encourager and Grounds Overseer

Pastor Todd oversees and delegates maintenance of the school campus. He keeps the entire campus property, including the nature trail, in impeccable shape while spreading joy to all.

Lanna Floyd

Early Childhood Teacher

Mrs. Lanna has her bachelors degree in developmental psychology, and additionally is certified through the Center for Guided Montessori Studies in early childhood education in the Montessori classroom. She has been with us since 2021.

Penny Craft

Elementary 1 Teacher

Mrs. Penny has been teaching for over 20 years and is certified in elementary education in the Montessori classroom. Mrs. Penny has been teaching in the Montessori classroom since 2020.

Jackie Coco

Elementary 2 Teacher

Ms. Jackie has been teaching for over 20 years and joined the Living Hope staff in 2025. She is certified in upper elementary in the Montessori classroom through the center for Guided Montessori studies.

Kayla Sawdy

Early Childhood Assistant

Mrs. Kayla, a long time homeschooling mom, began at Living Hope in August 2025. Her gentle and hope-filled approach at interacting with the students has brings out the best in them.

Debbie Kirby

Elementary 1 Assistant

Ms. Debbie is our elementary 1 assistant! All of our students love her because she is such a motivator and encourager, in and out of the classroom!

Kasi Cater

Middle School
World Scholars

Mrs. Kasi has over 20 years of teaching experience in middle school and high school, holds a masters degree in educational leadership, and is certified with the Center for Guided Montessori Studies as a Montessori administrator.

Merisha Gore

Director of Arts

Merisha Gore is the director of arts at Living Hope. She is an accomplished pianist, harpist, and artist and uses the Montessori method in implementing music and art instruction with her students. Merisha further is a costume designer and works as a costumer in cinematic productions.

Andrew Gore

Art Instructor

Andrew Gore is an art instructor at LHM. He holds a bachelors degree in art and photography. He enjoys teaching art technique to students of all ages.