Orla Black

Director of Programs


“I read my first Montessori book at age 13 and was hooked. I knew that I wanted to work in the area of early childhood education and the Montessori approach made complete sense to me. What a joy to be able to choose tasks that interest you and to be able to proceed at your own pace in a non-competitive environment. MSGH is as much a perfect match for me as it was for my own two children who attended school here. Our community advocates for the child and therefore the focus always remains on the child.”

Orla has been involved with Montessori education for over 30 years. She spent 20 years as a Primary Guide, including 17 in our community. She currently holds the position of Director of Programs. Whether she is in or out of a classroom, her passion for Montessori education ensures that the child’s experience remains at the core of MSGH programming.

Orla graduated from the University College Dublin in 1986 with a degree in Psychology and English and completed her AMI Montessori training in Ireland in 1988.

In her free time, she enjoys traveling and reading.