Administration

Head of School - Executive Director

Michelle F. Dallago

"It doesn’t matter what university, as much as it matters what preschool we choose for our children...

the earliest years grow the roots of the way we live the rest of our lives.

The seeds we plant must be of highest quality."

-Michelle F. Dallago

My name is Michelle Dallago. I am an Early Childhood Professional.

I am Owner, Head of School, Executive Director at Perception Early Learning, Montessori.

I taught in the Pottsville Area School District (DHHL Middle School) for 10 years before

finding passion in Montessori Early Education and opening Perception’s doors

January 2, 2001. I have a BS in Elementary Education- Kutztown University, an

M.Ed- Alvernia University, a MACTE certification and Montessori Early Childhood

Education Credential from LCCC. I am a veteran officer of the U.S. Army. I was an Adjunct ECE instructor at McCann School of Business and Technology for six years and served as Program Director of ECE. I was a volunteer third grade CCD teacher for 18 years at St. Patrick Parish. I am an advocate for quality early education and serve on various ECE Boards in the community. I am a mentor for the PA Keystone STARs Northeast Key supporting other early childhood centers to move from STAR 1 to STAR 2. I am a member of the Montessori Alliance of PA. Our mission is to modify legislative education policies to incorporate Montessori public and private education. In my spare time I love to be at home with my family sharing meals, watching movies, and playing guitar. I also enjoy hiking. I am an author of the children's book, "I Can do Anything!" and I am working on my second children's book. I hope to someday see a movie made about the life and work of Dr. Maria Montessori and to be part of the movie's making! I am writing a novel for film. I hope someday all of America will know and understand Montessori’s contributions to education and the relevant importance of her work in today’s world!

Office Administration

Joie Lynne Gardner

My name is Joie Lynne Gardner. I am an Early Childhood Professional. I am a sister to the director. I worked for our county's district court for 10 years before joining my sister

at Perception in 2005. I am the office administrator in charge of the CACFP food program

Pre -K Counts applications, and staff files among other responsibilities in the office here at Perception. I also help in the classrooms in the early morning, I have a Child Development Associate credential, a MACTE certification, and Montessori Early Childhood Education credentials. In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. My hobbies include exercising and shopping. I am honored to be part of the Perception team.

We strive everyday for higher quality in Early Childhood Education!

Peggy Dallago

My name is Peggy Dallago. I am an Early Childhood Professional. I am a cousin-in-law to the director. I have worked at Perception since 2001 as fiscal manager. I manage tuition and expenses among many other things. I have an AA in Business along with credits in accounting. I also have a Child Development Associate (CDA) certificate as well as Director Credential certification.

In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my family, friends and my beautiful

grandchildren! I am proud and honored to be part of the Perception team and

serving you and your family!