About the Teacher

Erin Ballantyne

Hi, I’m Erin Ballantyne, founder and lead teacher of UUTUKU Montessori Forest Preschool.

I am Iñupiaq (Alaska Native), and I envisioned creating a small, deeply connected learning environment rooted in both Montessori principles and a strong sense of place. The name UUTUKU reflects that vision—it means “tiny,” and my hope is to create a classroom community that remains low ratio (about 1:6), intentional, and precious. I am happiest when surrounded by children and love sharing my appreciation, wonder, and connection to our beautiful state with them.

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Colorado Christian University and a Master’s degree in Montessori Education from Sarasota University. I also earned my Montessori teaching credential through the Montessori Education Center of the Rockies and am currently completing certification through the American Montessori Society Instructor Academy, where I am training to guide adult learners in becoming Montessori educators themselves.

I have been a Montessori lead teacher for nearly a decade and have spent even more time working within Montessori classrooms. My experience spans both public and private Montessori schools, where I developed a deep appreciation for the philosophy and its impact on children.

While I loved my work in traditional Montessori classrooms, many of my favorite moments happened outside. Weekly nature walks quickly became the highlight of the week for both my students and me. Those experiences sparked a simple but powerful question: What if children could have that experience every day?

UUTUKU Montessori Forest Preschool was created from that vision.

I am passionate about the hands-on, child-centered nature of Montessori education, where each child is respected as an individual and supported in developing independence, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning. I believe that time spent outdoors is one of the most grounding, life-giving, and awe-inspiring experiences we can offer young children—and that it is essential, not optional, in early childhood.

Outside of the classroom, I enjoy a full and active family life. My husband teaches AK Farm and Food Systems at King Tech High School, and together we are raising a daughter in high school and a son in middle school. In my free time, I love reading, going on walks, fishing, spending time with my dog Jubilee, and continuing my own education.