Floribeth Camento-Maryon was raised on a farm in Surigao del Sur, Philippines, where she learned the values of hard work and responsibility by helping care for her younger siblings and contributing to her family from an early age. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from St. Francis Xavier College and has hands-on experience as a preschool aide and nanny, including nine years working abroad.
In July 2024, Floribeth moved to Salt Lake City with her husband. She joined Foothill Montessori in September 2024 as a Support Guide in the Infant Room—a role she describes as her dream come true. Her deep love for working with young children has inspired her to pursue Montessori Infant/Toddler certification, which she will begin this summer.
Floribeth believes in nurturing the whole child through patience, respect, and consistency. She is passionate about creating a calm, loving environment where children feel secure to explore, grow, and thrive. Her long-term goal is to become a certified Montessori Lead Guide and continue supporting families during the most formative years of their children’s lives.
Outside of work, Floribeth enjoys crocheting, cross-stitching, cooking, and exploring the outdoors through hiking in Utah’s scenic landscapes. She is also passionate about music and loves to sing. A multilingual speaker, Floribeth speaks four languages, which helps her connect with children and families from diverse backgrounds.
Sydnie grew up in both Nashville, Tennessee, and Oakland, Kentucky. A graduate of culinary school from UVU and former pastry chef, she continues to share her expertise through her work with a small catering company. Since bringing her son to Foothill Montessori of Salt Lake, Sydnie has been drawn to the welcoming environment and dedicated staff, inspiring her to jump in as a substitute, toddler support guide, and now office support. An interesting fact about her is she loves to travel and has been to the Bahamas, India, London, and Fiji.
The Uinta class rounded out their studies and hard work with an amazing time on their trip to Fremont Indian State Park. Thank you for all the support throughout the year in helping them research, plan, prepare, and pay for this hands-on learning experience!
Here’s what sixth year graduate, Verona, had to say about the experience:
“The adventure was so much fun! As a student, I feel like we were very involved with everything, from the shopping of the groceries to the actual raising of money. The Montessori Market was also a plus, with how you learn to manage a shop, and make products. The Adventure is also very hands on, so you help to cook, and you set up your own tent. It was awesome hanging out with my friends in nature, and exploring with them at the campsite. Hiking was great as well. But I’d recommend wearing more sunscreen than you think you need, wear your thermals at night, and enjoy every little bit of the trip!”
Please view a portion of their Adventure Activity Booklet here.
Have you ever wanted to know more about the Montessori Method?
This summer, Foothill Montessori of Salt Lake is offering Montessori 101, an introduction to the principles and pedagogy of Montessori philosophy to prospective and current families. These information sessions will be led by Catherine Mathews, our Head of School, a veteran Montessori Guide, Montessori parent, and Montessori grandparent. Lunchtime and evening sessions will be held each month.
The purpose of Montessori 101 is to provide prospective and current families an increased knowledge of the science behind Montessori philosophy and pedagogy as well as its high-fidelity implementation at Foothill Montessori of Salt Lake in a hands-on and engaging format. Parents will further their understanding of education techniques and our guide’s considerations, then have the opportunity to tour our beautiful facility, which fulfills a prerequisite to enrollment. This is a great opportunity for questions and discussion about who we are and who we are not at FMSL.
Current parents will enhance their knowledge of the why, how, and when of the Montessori Method.
Donda Hartsfield has brought this corner of the campus to life not only through the flora but through the lessons and works she provides for students. It is here where a love for nature and the earth is built through hands on interactions.
“In the end, we will conserve only what we love; we will love only what we understand and we will understand only what we are taught.” – Baba Dioum, Senegalese poet and environmentalist
<< A photo of our outdoor classroom in honor of Earth Day.
This summer we will be going through the timeline of some of our most pivotal inventions throughout history. Each student (inventor) will have a chance to explore some of those pivotal inventions as well as be a part in creating ideas and inventions of their very own!
We are excited to continue field trips, gardening, and splash days as well as adding frequent in-house invention’s labs this year.
Thank you for donating your recycled materials! We have so many wonderful plans with what has been provided so far, and appreciate the support and learning while we reduce reuse and recycle together! Keep them coming!
June 17 – August 9
(School Hours & Extended Hours)
Splash Days
Field Trips
Ages 3 – 9
Fill out the inquiry form for details. We will reach out to you with details shortly.
Last week, I had the pleasure of hosting the FMSL Art Show, and it was truly a celebration of creativity, individuality, and community. As the art studio teacher, I am thrilled to share with you some highlights from the event and express my gratitude for your support and attendance.
At the heart of our art studio program lies the philosophy of Teaching for Artistic Behavior. This approach guides instruction by recognizing that students are the artists, and the classroom is their studio. My goal is not just to teach art, but to cultivate a mindset where students learn to think and behave like artists.
In line with this philosophy, all the artwork on display at the show differed from each other, reflecting the unique voices, ideas, and interests of each individual artist. Each piece was accompanied by an artist statement, providing insights into the creative process and personal inspiration behind the work. Additionally, photographs of the artists either in the process of creating or proudly posing with their finished artwork were displayed alongside the art, emphasizing the connection between the artist and their creation.
In line with this philosophy, all the artwork on display at the show differed from each other, reflecting the unique voices, ideas, and interests of each individual artist. Each piece was accompanied by an artist statement, providing insights into the creative process and personal inspiration behind the work. Additionally, photographs of the artists either in the process of creating or proudly posing with their finished artwork were displayed alongside the art, emphasizing the connection between the artist and their creation.
One of the highlights of the event was the inclusion of artwork from the Uinta (upper elementary) class. These projects, integrated with their classroom curriculum, showcased how creativity enhances learning across various subjects. It was a testament to the interdisciplinary nature of arts education and its ability to deepen understanding and support learning in other areas.
Beyond admiring the artwork, the art show featured interactive components that engaged attendees of all ages. The Artist Fan Mail table allowed guests to write notes of appreciation to the artists, fostering a sense of connection and encouragement within our creative community.
A slideshow featuring images of artists at work played throughout the event, showcasing moments of inspiration, concentration, and joy from the art studio. It was heartwarming to see students and their families delight in recognizing themselves and their friends engaged in the creative process.
I want to express my sincere gratitude to everyone who attended the art show. Your presence, enthusiasm, and positive feedback truly warmed my heart. Your support not only validates the hard work and dedication of our student artists but also reinforces the vital importance of arts education in our school community.
Foothill Montessori of Salt Lake is the IMC accredited school approved to accept vouchers from the Utah Fits All, school choice, education scholarship which is open from February 25 through April 15, 2024. We encourage all K-6th grade aged students to apply.
Act Now to Secure Your Scholarship
Utah residents are eligible for this funding, but due to the limited number of available scholarships this year, certain families will be prioritized. We encourage everyone to apply. This funding provides $8000 toward tuition here. Details can be found on the scholarship website.
If your family wants to tap into the benefits of a Montessori education, Foothill Montessori of Salt Lake is a leader for parents in the Salt Lake City, UT area. Serving many University of Utah parents and families, our location is only a few minutes from downtown.
This year’s 2024 Summer Camp theme is Invention. Students will learn about famous inventors and their inventions, and have the opportunity to explore a variety of materials to create their own inventions.
This engaging and creative curriculum will also include exciting arts, movement, and cooking activities. Students will enjoy many fun field trips and splash days as well.
Camp Dates: June 17th-August 9th Summer Camp is offered for all current and incoming Foothill Montessori of Salt Lake students in the Infant through Lower Elementary programs.
To register, visit your FACTS Family Portal or email summercamp@mcsslc.com for more details.
