Our Faculty
Victoria Kline
Head of School
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With a heartfelt commitment to Montessori education and a wealth of leadership experience, Ms. Vicki Kline brings both passion and purpose to her role as Head of School at The Springs.
Vicki’s journey in education began over 18 years ago as a Children’s House Montessori Assistant at a neighboring Montessori school in Northern Virginia. From the moment she stepped into the classroom, she was inspired by the peaceful environment, the beauty of child-led learning, and the joy of watching each child grow in their own unique way. Her natural talent for connecting with children and families soon led her into the role of Admissions Director, where she played a vital part in welcoming new families and helping them transition smoothly into the Montessori community. Her deep understanding of both parent and student needs laid a strong foundation for her future as a school leader.
In 2011, Vicki became Head of School and has since guided Montessori schools through times of growth, transition, and renewal. She is known for her steady leadership, her ability to foster a strong sense of community, and her unwavering dedication to the Montessori philosophy. Her leadership has been especially impactful during times of ownership transition, where her calm presence and thoughtful guidance helped ensure continuity and stability for students, staff, and families alike.
Vicki holds a Master’s Degree in Montessori Leadership from Sarasota University and a Montessori Administrative Credential from the Center for Guided Montessori Studies. She is also a graduate of the University of Virginia, where she earned her degree in Psychology. This foundation continues to shape her compassionate, student-centered approach to leadership.
Since joining The Springs in the summer of 2022, Vicki has been a driving force behind the school’s continued growth and success. Her vision, experience, and deep love for Montessori education are reflected in every aspect of the school, from the classrooms to the broader community. Under her leadership, The Springs remains a place where children are not only nurtured but truly empowered to thrive.
Outside of school, Vicki enjoys reading, traveling, discovering new restaurants, and staying active in fitness classes. She is also the proud mom of two Montessori children, both of whom currently attend The Springs, making her connection to the school all the more meaningful.
Victoria Kline
Head of SchoolWith a heartfelt commitment to Montessori education and a wealth of leadership experience, Ms. Vicki Kline brings both passion and purpose to her role as Head of School at The Springs.
Vicki’s journey in education began over 18 years ago as a Children’s House Montessori Assistant at a neighboring Montessori school in Northern Virginia. From the moment she stepped into the classroom, she was inspired by the peaceful environment, the beauty of child-led learning, and the joy of watching each child grow in their own unique way. Her natural talent for connecting with children and families soon led her into the role of Admissions Director, where she played a vital part in welcoming new families and helping them transition smoothly into the Montessori community. Her deep understanding of both parent and student needs laid a strong foundation for her future as a school leader.
In 2011, Vicki became Head of School and has since guided Montessori schools through times of growth, transition, and renewal. She is known for her steady leadership, her ability to foster a strong sense of community, and her unwavering dedication to the Montessori philosophy. Her leadership has been especially impactful during times of ownership transition, where her calm presence and thoughtful guidance helped ensure continuity and stability for students, staff, and families alike.
Vicki holds a Master’s Degree in Montessori Leadership from Sarasota University and a Montessori Administrative Credential from the Center for Guided Montessori Studies. She is also a graduate of the University of Virginia, where she earned her degree in Psychology. This foundation continues to shape her compassionate, student-centered approach to leadership.
Since joining The Springs in the summer of 2022, Vicki has been a driving force behind the school’s continued growth and success. Her vision, experience, and deep love for Montessori education are reflected in every aspect of the school, from the classrooms to the broader community. Under her leadership, The Springs remains a place where children are not only nurtured but truly empowered to thrive.
Outside of school, Vicki enjoys reading, traveling, discovering new restaurants, and staying active in fitness classes. She is also the proud mom of two Montessori children, both of whom currently attend The Springs, making her connection to the school all the more meaningful.
Ardiana Glaukaj
Assistant Head of School
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Ms. Diana was born and raised in Albania! She came to the states as an au pair in 2007 for a family of four and completed her Bachelor's Degree in Information Technology from George Mason simultaneously. Always loving children, Ms. Diana began in the Montessori world as a Children's House Assistant in 2013 and eventually became an Assistant Head of School for another Montessori School in 2018. Ms. Diana is pursuing her Children's House Montessori training from the Prepared Montessorian.
Ms. Diana enjoys travel, sports, music, and dancing in her free time and is a mom to her daughter, Jora.
Ardiana Glaukaj
Assistant Head of SchoolMs. Diana was born and raised in Albania! She came to the states as an au pair in 2007 for a family of four and completed her Bachelor's Degree in Information Technology from George Mason simultaneously. Always loving children, Ms. Diana began in the Montessori world as a Children's House Assistant in 2013 and eventually became an Assistant Head of School for another Montessori School in 2018. Ms. Diana is pursuing her Children's House Montessori training from the Prepared Montessorian.
Ms. Diana enjoys travel, sports, music, and dancing in her free time and is a mom to her daughter, Jora.
Laura Chonko
Director of Enrollment and Parents Outreach
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Ms. Laura brings a diverse professional background in education, project management, communications, and community engagement. Throughout her career, she has enjoyed working with families, community organizations, and government agencies, building relationships, coordinating events, and creating opportunities for people to connect. Most recently, Laura spent several years as a contractor supporting the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, where she worked in strategic communications for the Homeless Programs Office and served as a project manager for healthcare initiatives across VA Medical Centers in the Mid-Atlantic region. She has also led volunteer programs, community outreach efforts, and service projects focused on building connections and strengthening community.
As a parent of three boys, Laura is passionate about fostering strong school communities and creating welcoming experiences for current and prospective families. She is excited to support The Springs and The Woods through enrollment, communications, and community events while helping share the Montessori experience with others.
When she's not working or volunteering, Laura enjoys spending time with her family, playing softball and volleyball, and traveling. Banff, Canada, is at the top of her travel bucket list!
Laura Chonko
Director of Enrollment and Parent EngagementMs. Laura brings a diverse professional background in education, project management, communications, and community engagement. Throughout her career, she has enjoyed working with families, community organizations, and government agencies, building relationships, coordinating events, and creating opportunities for people to connect. Most recently, Laura spent several years as a contractor supporting the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, where she worked in strategic communications for the Homeless Programs Office and served as a project manager for healthcare initiatives across VA Medical Centers in the Mid-Atlantic region. She has also led volunteer programs, community outreach efforts, and service projects focused on building connections and strengthening community.
As a parent of three boys, Laura is passionate about fostering strong school communities and creating welcoming experiences for current and prospective families. She is excited to support The Springs and The Woods through enrollment, communications, and community events while helping share the Montessori experience with others.
When she's not working or volunteering, Laura enjoys spending time with her family, playing softball and volleyball, and traveling. Banff, Canada, is at the top of her travel bucket list!
Daniel Clifford
Executive Director and Director of Finance
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Mr. Dan brings over 15 years of experience in Montessori education and holds certifications in both Early Childhood and Lower Elementary. With a unique background that blends technical expertise and educational insight, he holds a Master’s Degree in Electrical Engineering from George Washington University and another in Education from Xavier University—an intersection that allows him to merge analytical thinking with a deep understanding of child development.
Outside the school, Mr. Dan is a devoted husband and proud father of three, all graduates of The Springs or our sister school, The Woods. He enjoys reading fantasy novels and cheering on his children at their lacrosse games.
Daniel Clifford
Executive Director and Director of FinanceMr. Dan brings over 15 years of experience in Montessori education and holds certifications in both Early Childhood and Lower Elementary. With a unique background that blends technical expertise and educational insight, he holds a Master’s Degree in Electrical Engineering from George Washington University and another in Education from Xavier University—an intersection that allows him to merge analytical thinking with a deep understanding of child development.
Outside the school, Mr. Dan is a devoted husband and proud father of three, all graduates of The Springs or our sister school, The Woods. He enjoys reading fantasy novels and cheering on his children at their lacrosse games.