Erika Deru

Job Title

WR Kitchen Assistant and Destination Imagination Coordinator

How many total years have you worked in Montessori?

10

How many years have you worked at Compass?

10

Level of education and professional credentials

Masters in English Literature

What is the most inspiring thing about working at Compass, with students and/or in Montessori?

In DI, I get to teach new skills (sewing, woodworking, using hand tools, etc) and watch them apply those skills to their own ideas. I get to guide them in collaborating, using positive reinforcement and creating an environment where everyone feels heard. In the kitchen, I love being able to introduce new foods, new cuisines, and creating a more international and diverse menu.

How were you introduced to the world of Montessori? 

As a teenager, I babysat kids who went to a Montessori school, so when I had my own kids we looked at Compass. It's been a great fit for our family.

Fun fact - If we held a staff talent show, I'd wow everyone with my talent doing.....fill in the blank! 

Bad jokes. I think I am funny! 

List one passion you have outside of work

I am interested in everything and always have some kind of project, so I'll phrase this as I am a creator and a learner. I'm always learning from others and teaching myself new things, and I'm interested in people!