Faculty & Administration

Claire Lundy
Lead Teacher and Program Director
Claire’s passion for nature and knowledge began early. With a BA in psychology (University of Washington, 2012) and an AMI-certified diploma as a Primary Guide plus an M.Ed. in Montessori Education, she is devoted to creating a peaceful, loving environment where children can grow to their fullest potential. Outside school, Claire balances adventurous pursuits—rugby and trail running—with yoga and gardening.

Elizabeth Bartko
Co-Teacher
An early childhood educator since 2007, Elizabeth completed AMI Primary training with Ginni Sackett and has worked across age levels. From 2014–2020 she owned Maple Seed Montessori, a toddler program in Montavilla. Elizabeth feels gratitude for the opportunity to support the teachers, parents and learners of the Frog Song Community. Each day she looks forward to sharing with the children her enjoyment of singing, reading, conversing, gardening, and exploring the natural world.

Amity Irving
Assistant Teacher
Amity has cared for children from neighborhood babysitting to professional nannying. As a Dharma Rain resident, she was drawn to Montessori and completed an introductory course, deepening her respect for children and the method. She loves hiking, rock climbing, and dogs—and looks forward to getting to know every child and family.

Sophie Enloe
Music Teacher
Sophie’s musical life began with piano at six and violin at eight, and with singing and movement woven into daily family life. A Suzuki teacher and professional musician, she values early exposure to music and has taught children since 2013. She has toured and recorded with folk, country, and old-time bands, and taught at festivals and workshops.

Kakumyo Lowe
Tumbling Teacher
Kakumyo, abbot of Dharma Rain, has been a monk for 20 years and a teacher for nearly 15. A lifelong movement enthusiast—qigong, time in the wild, circus acrobatics—he brings a playful, mindful approach to movement that resonates with 3–4 year olds.

Jen Bass
Administrative Support
Jen provides part-time administrative support and is an active Dharma Rain community member. With a background in ABA and passions for mindfulness, self-compassion, and community engagement, she enjoys time with her family, dancing, and hiking around Portland.

Yukyo Vollmer
Support Staff
Being drawn to the wonder and enthusiasm I can share with young people, my first connection with the children at Frog Song was inviting them into the garden at Dharma Rain. With a background centered in the outdoors, growing food, and building community I've enjoyed the role of a naturalist for outdoor school groups, and guiding kids activities at farms. I've been a resident at Dharma Rain since 2023, and have found my practice in Buddhism alongside working in the Montessori preschool here to be beautifully complimentary, and wonderfully fulfilling.