Our Board of Directors

Who We Are

The Lupine Montessori School Board of Directors plays a vital role in ensuring that school operations align with Montessori philosophy and the values outlined in our mission statement. It is comprised of parents, staff, and community members who volunteer their time, talents, and resources to support the school’s mission and long-term success.

  • A smiling man with gray hair sitting on a brown leather chair in a cozy, well-decorated room with a bookshelf, colorful artwork on the wall, and a potted pink flower plant on a side table.

    Jason Antonitis

    FOUNDER, BOARD CHAIR, EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

    As a co-founder of Lupine Montessori School, I’ve been deeply involved since our opening in 2017. I currently serve as Chair of the Board of Directors and Interim Treasurer, working closely with the Head of School to guide strategy, support strong governance, and uphold our mission.

    I helped incorporate Lupine, secure our 501(c)(3) nonprofit status, and co-develop our first strategic plan. I remain actively engaged in the school’s financial oversight, including bookkeeping and audit preparation, and serve on both the finance and audit committees.

    Professionally, I hold a BS in Computer Science from Northern Illinois University and work as a Sales Executive at IBM. I’m also a proud Montessori parent—my two sons attended Montessori schools, including Lupine, throughout their elementary years. I’m honored to support a school that offers authentic Montessori education to families in the Lockport area.

  • A woman with long, wavy brown hair is sitting in a leather chair indoors, smiling at the camera. Behind her, there is a bookshelf with red and beige books, a framed colorful abstract artwork on the wall, and a table with a potted plant with pink flowers.

    Lorelle Earl

    VICE CHAIR, EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

    I’m honored to serve on the Board of Directors at Lupine Montessori, where I also chair the Human Resources Committee and contribute to the Building Committee. With a master’s degree in education and over a decade of experience as a public school teacher, I bring a strong commitment to creating nurturing and effective learning environments.

    In addition to my background in education, I’ve worked as a real estate broker for over 15 years, giving me valuable insight into the community and the factors that shape our school’s growth.

    My connection to Lupine is deeply personal—both of my children have been part of the school since age three. Seeing them thrive in a Montessori environment has strengthened my belief in this approach and its ability to meet each child’s unique needs.

    At Lupine, I’m dedicated to supporting our mission, helping foster an inclusive, values-driven culture, and ensuring that we continue to attract and retain exceptional educators and staff.

  • A woman with shoulder-length brown hair, wearing a black blazer and a red blouse, smiling and sitting in a brown leather chair in an office setting with books and a flowerpot in the background.

    Beth Potocsnak

    SECRETARY, EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

    I’m proud to serve as Secretary on the Board of Directors at Lupine Montessori, where I’ve been a board member for over four years. In my role, I ensure accurate records of board meetings and help maintain clear communication through agendas and meeting minutes.

    My background in social work has shaped my deep belief in the power of community. From volunteering with children and mentoring through Big Brothers Big Sisters to working with adults in recovery and the prison system, I’ve always been driven to serve others.

    Today, I’m raising four Montessori children—two of whom are now in high school—and my role at home gives me the opportunity to support Lupine with dedication. I stay actively involved in the parent community, helping with events, our annual gala, and other school initiatives.

    I believe deeply in Lupine’s mission and am committed to supporting its continued growth as a nurturing, hands-on learning environment where children can truly thrive.

  • A woman with shoulder-length brown hair, wearing a black blazer and white t-shirt with black writing, smiling while sitting in a room with a bookcase, a framed art piece, a potted plant.

    Tori Viana

    DIRECTOR

    As a proud parent of a daughter who has been part of the Montessori community since preschool and at Lupine since first grade, I’m deeply invested in both her education and the school that supports her growth.

    I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Visual Communication from Columbus College of Art and Design, and my career in design and photography has allowed me to support Lupine in creative ways—from fundraising materials to helping develop the school’s new website.

    I’m committed to strengthening our community and helping ensure that Lupine continues to provide an exceptional educational experience for every student.

  • A woman with shoulder-length brown hair, glasses, and gold hoop earrings, smiling and sitting in a brown leather chair in an office or study. She is wearing a denim jacket over a white striped blouse. Behind her, there are books on shelves, a framed colorful artwork, and a potted pink flower on a console table.

    Tina Davidson

    HEAD OF SCHOOL

    As a founding member of Lupine Montessori School, I’m honored to serve as Head of School and as an ex-officio member of the Board of Directors. My journey began with a BA in Communication Education from Bowling Green State University, followed by nearly a decade of teaching high school English, Speech, and Drama.

    My passion for Montessori education began when my daughter entered preschool. All three of my children went on to attend Montessori schools through 8th grade, inspiring me to earn certifications in Early Childhood Education and Administration from Seton Montessori Institute.

    Since opening Lupine in 2017, I’ve supported our mission through leadership, operations, hiring, mentoring, and community engagement. I also serve as a teacher trainer at Seton Montessori Institute and present workshops for the Association of Illinois Montessori Schools.

    At the heart of Lupine is a strong, caring community committed to helping children grow through academic exploration and compassionate learning. I believe deeply in Montessori’s vision of peace and am proud to help plant the seeds that will shape a brighter future—one child at a time.

What We Do

The BOD provides leadership, oversight, and strategic guidance to ensure Lupine Montessori School thrives and remains true to its mission.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Ensure school operations reflect Montessori principles and Lupine's mission.

  • Guide long-term planning and major institutional decisions.

  • Monitor fiscal health, approve budgets, and support financial transparency.

  • Develop and uphold policies and best practices for effective, ethical leadership.

  • Act in the best interests of students, families, teachers, and staff.Core responsibilities include mission alignment, strategic planning, financial oversight, governance, and supporting the overall health and sustainability of the school. Board members are committed to operating in the best interests of students, families, and staff.

MEETINGS AND TRANSPARENCY:

  • Agendas and minutes from open sessions are documented and available in the Parent Portal.

  • When appropriate, key decisions and updates are shared at events or through official school communications.

  • Individual board members can be contacted through the parent directory or collectively at bod@lupinemontessori.org.

Learn more

“The land is where our roots are. The children must be taught to feel and live in harmony with the Earth.”

— Maria Montessori