Board Chair

Kari Odorizzi is a Substitute Teacher at MMCS. She received her bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and Sociology from the University of North Dakota and her master’s degree in Special Education from the University of West Georgia. Kari held a teaching license in Georgia in Special Education and a substitute teaching license in Minnesota. Kari’s passion for helping youth is evident by her diverse background as a live-in nanny, Ameri-Corps classroom tutor and Activities Coordinator & Volunteer Coordinator at a residential psychiatric treatment facility for kids in addition to her classroom time in the Atlanta Public Schools.

When she’s not subbing as a teacher at MMCS, Kari spends her time at home raising her four children. She has always loved the Montessori approach and is happy to be able to be a part of this school. In addition to working with children, Kari has traveled and lived abroad which has given her an uncommon perspective and approach to education and life in general. Kari combines her passion for children and background in education, with her love of different cultures and ways of thinking to help create a unique learning environment at MMCS.

BOARD treasurer

Kathy Mrozek is an MMCS parent, business owner, and lifelong learner. She first learned about Montessori when her oldest child was an infant, and is passionate about Montessori education as a way to foster self-direction, curiosity, responsibility, and a sense of community in our children. Her three sons have been enrolled in MMCS since the school opened, loving the opportunity to combine Montessori with STEM. Kathy holds a bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, which she used to launch a career in design and marketing. Her experience includes starting, managing, leading, and growing a B2B marketing firm over the past 15 years, as well as teaching in a post-secondary environment, and serving on the board for the local chapter of EO (Entrepreneur’s Organization). She looks forward to bringing her background, experience and leadership skills to her role as a member of the MMCS board.

BOARD SECRETARY

Leah Barrett is an elementary teacher at MMCS and is excited to start a career in Montessori Education. Leah is new to the field of Montessori but is eager to gain more experience. She received her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Winona State University where she first learned about Montessori education and found how the foundations and philosophy of Montessori aligned with her own teaching philosophy. Leah’s experience has taught her that there is more to school than standards and prepared lessons, but a sense of comfort and value within the classroom, a place where learning, independence, and fun can all be together.

BOARD MEMBER

Scott Wilkie has a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education and currently works as the Communications Director for the International Brotherhood of Teamsters. In addition to serving on the MMCS Board, Scott serves on the St. Michael - Albertville Schools American Indian Parent Advisory Board. Scott has two daughters that have attended MMCS for the past two years. In his free time, Scott volunteers as a keynote speaker on Indigenous initiatives to raise money for Native American youth in the Midwest.

Scott comes from a family of educators that includes teachers, principals, and superintendents. Spending his life around k-12 education has built a passion for kids and empowering the next generation through strong schools. In serving on the MMCS school board, Scott is able to bring the perspective of his k-12 experience in Anoka- Hennepin Schools, his education as a teacher, and his views as a parent at MMCS.

BOARD MEMBER

Russell Myers is in his fifth year as a volunteer at MMCS, working with students on reading. In the early 2000s he served on the board of Twin Cities Academy charter school in St. Paul, one term as a parent and later as a community member. Professionally, Russ has been a chaplain at Allina Health for thirty years, serving at United Hospital and Allina Emergency Medical Services (EMS). He enjoys cooking, swimming, and being outdoors.

BOARD MEMBER

Daria Reineccius is a Lower Elementary teacher at MMCS. She has been a Montessori guide for 4 years and is eager to continue growing in her practice. Daria received her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from St. Cloud State University. She has also received her Montessori E1 Diploma through the North American Montessori Center. After graduating college, Daria taught preschool at the University of Minnesota's Child Development Center and later at St. David's Center. 

Alongside teaching, Daria serves on the culture and curriculum committees where she is dedicated to working alongside others to support our students and broader school community. Daria looks forward to bringing her background as an educator, perspective as an MMCS teacher, and knowledge of curriculum and best practices to the school board.

BOARD MEMBER

Emily Immaneni, as a lifelong advocate for education and community growth, brings a passion for creating opportunities that empower students, teachers, and families. Emily has 5 years of experience in preK education as a Montessori Extended Day/Preschool teacher. She went on to work as the Director of Life Enhancement at Senior Living Facilities before working in HR for St. Paul Public Schools and a local school bus company. 

As a foster parent of two young children, Emily is deeply committed to ensuring every student has access to a safe, inclusive, and high-quality learning environment. Emily believes that strong schools build strong communities, and is dedicated to working with parents, educators, and fellow board members to make decisions so that MMCS reflects the needs and values of our community.

In her free time, Emily enjoys traveling, hiking, crafts and being outdoors. Emily looks forward to serving our students and community with integrity, transparency, and a focus on excellence.