My name is Andrea Rosenthal Warnken and since 2004 I have taught general music and private music lessons at CMA. I hold a B.A. in English and theatre performance from Ohio Northern University and a J.D. from the University of Cincinnati.

I still marvel at the circuitous route I took to becoming a teacher. From litigator to stay-at-home mom to music educator? Sure, why not! Hanging up my suits and focusing on music was like coming home.

Being in a profession where I get to draw out imagination, mine for self-confidence, and build students’ skills makes for fulfilling, interesting days. My lessons are constantly evolving, as each year brings new group dynamics and new areas of interest for the students. I rely heavily on the Orff-Schulwerk method of teaching and attend continuing education seminars in that area.

I have performed in plays, musicals, swing choirs, concert choirs, concert bands, wind ensembles and orchestras in the past and have sung with the May Festival Chorus. I have written, recorded and performed original music and more recently have explored writing prose poetry and creating film shorts. I find that a little bit of all those musical experiences finds its way into my work with your children.

Working with staff and faculty who dedicate themselves to maximizing every child’s educational and personal growth is something I truly appreciate about CMA. Having taught in other schools, I can say that we have a uniquely engaged and supportive
parent community.

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My name is Rita Gross. I have been in education since 2009. My time has been split between working with students one on one as a Paraprofessional, an Intervention Specialist and an Art educator.
Prior to obtaining my education license, I worked in the accounting field. I enjoyed working with and training my co-workers. After many years of office work, I couldn’t forget my childhood dream of becoming an art teacher. So at the age of forty, I went to Miami University to get my license in Art Education. Later I went on to get my Intervention license from Indiana Wesleyan University.

Before joining the Central Montessori Academy team, I worked for the Warren County Learning Center, teaching students with emotional and behavioral needs. There,I was able to grow as a teacher and learned to build lasting relationships with the students.

I am a lifelong learner and hope to bring that enthusiasm to my classroom as I introduce new artists, materials and techniques to the students. I believe that art is a personal expression and each student should feel free to express themselves without judgment. I enjoy watching as students learn and develop their skills and then create something that makes themselves smile.

My name is Rachel Bonar, I am so excited to begin working with the students, families and staff at Central Montessori Academy. l am graduate of Cincinnati State Technical and Community College’s Occupational Therapy Assistant Program and also a graduate of Miami University with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology. I have had the privilege of working with children in a variety of settings and roles. I have experience working in Lakota Local Schools as well as Cincinnati Public Schools. Through each of these valuable experiences I have learned so much and gained even more of a passion for Occupational Therapy and helping students to have success in school. I am looking forward to contributing my skills and enthusiasm to Central Montessori Academy!”

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