The Montessori Event 2027

Amy Herman

In Montessori education, observation is one of our most essential practices. It is through careful observation that we come to understand the child, prepare responsive environments, and make thoughtful decisions that honor each learner's unique development. This keynote invites participants to strengthen that practice by exploring how we truly see, interpret, and communicate what matters.

The Art of Perception is an engaging and interactive experience that uses works of art to deepen observation, perception, and communication skills. Through guided conversations, participants will examine works of art together, challenging individual and collective assumptions while sharpening their ability to observe with greater precision and curiosity.

Designed to strengthen critical inquiry and incorporate multiple perspectives, the session explores how assumptions shape our thinking and how intentional observation leads to better understanding, stronger communication, and more effective problem-solving. Participants will discover practical strategies for navigating change, communicating with clarity, and approaching complex situations with fresh insight.

Thought-provoking, inspiring, and highly engaging, this keynote will leave participants with renewed appreciation for the power of observation—and the possibilities that emerge when we learn to truly see what matters.

Amy Herman is a lawyer and art historian who uses works of art to sharpen observation, analysis, and communication skills. By showing people how to look closely at painting, sculpture, and photography, she helps them hone their visual intelligence to recognize the most pertinent and useful information as well as recognize biases that impede decision making. She developed her Art of Perception seminar to improve medical students’ observation and communication skills with their patients when she was the Head of Education at The Frick Collection in New York City. She subsequently adapted the program for a wide range of professionals and leads sessions internationally for the New York City Police Department, the FBI, the French National Police, the Department of Defense, Interpol, the State Department, Fortune 500 companies, first responders, the military, and the intelligence community. In her highly participatory presentation, she demonstrates the relevance of visual literacy across the professional spectrum and how the analysis of works of art affords participants in her program an innovative way to refresh their sense of critical inquiry and reconsider the skills necessary for improved performance and effective leadership. The program has been featured in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, The CBS Evening News, and Smithsonian Magazine, among others. Her TED talk, A Lesson in Looking, went live in December 2018. Ms. Herman holds an A.B., a J.D., and an M.A. in art history. Her book, Visual Intelligence, was published in May 2016 and was on both the New York Times and Washington Post best sellers’ lists.

John Ondrasik

Maria Montessori challenged us to imagine what education could become and then inspired a movement that transformed learning around the world. As Montessori educators and leaders, we are called to embrace that same spirit of curiosity, creativity, and possibility as we respond to the changing needs of children, families, and our communities.

In this inspiring opening keynote, Grammy-nominated, platinum-selling singer-songwriter John Ondrasik, better known as Five for Fighting, blends music, storytelling, and personal reflection to explore the power of asking one simple question: What if?

Drawing from his experiences as an acclaimed musician, songwriter, entrepreneur, and vice president of a third-generation family business, John shares compelling stories about creativity, innovation, resilience, teamwork, and the courage to pursue meaningful work. Through live performances of some of his most beloved songs—including 100 Years, Superman (It's Not Easy), Chances, The Riddle, Freedom Never Cries, and What If—he offers fresh perspectives on navigating change, learning from failure, building strong relationships, and finding purpose.

Equal parts concert, conversation, and keynote, this memorable experience will inspire participants to think differently, lead creatively, and imagine new possibilities for themselves, their schools, and the future of Montessori education.

Singer-songwriter John Ondrasik has spent the past decade writing deeply personal songs that include social messages, invoke the human spirit and make an emotional connection. With the past six albums by Five For Fighting, the hockey moniker stage name under which he performs, Ondrasik has seen multitudes of successes. Five For Fighting's breakthrough came in 2001 with the Grammy-nominated song “Superman,” and John’s performance at The Concert For New York.

Ondrasik proceeded to become part of the American songbook with the iconic hit “100 Years,” "World," "The Riddle,” “Chances,” and “What If.” John’s music has been featured in over 350 films, TV shows, and advertisements ranging from The Blind Side to The Sopranos. In 2018 John was the musical voice for the CBS hit show Code Black.

John has also been deeply involved in supporting our troops. From USO tours, supporting several Veteran oriented charities, and distributing over a million “CD for the Troops” to servicemen and their families around the world. “At the end of the day, it really is about doing your part, each one of us. In whatever area we can. What kind of world do you want?”

Ondrasik is currently working on a Broadway musical, various television projects, and a new Five For Fighting album while giving keynotes across the country to corporations and various organizations.

Michelle Poler

Montessori believed that every human being possesses unique potential waiting to be discovered and nurtured. Yet too often, educators and leaders underestimate their own gifts, compare themselves to others, or hesitate to share their ideas. When we recognize our unique strengths and have the confidence to lead authentically, we not only transform ourselves—we strengthen our schools, our communities, and the future of Montessori. 

In this inspiring and energizing keynote, bestselling author and Hello Fears founder Michelle Poler shares a powerful framework for helping individuals move from simply fitting in to becoming truly irreplaceable. Through engaging storytelling, interactive moments, humor, and vulnerability, Michelle demonstrates how embracing our authentic selves unlocks greater confidence, creativity, leadership, and impact.

Participants will explore Michelle's three-part framework:

This uplifting keynote will inspire Montessori educators and leaders to stop comparing themselves to others, embrace their unique contributions, and lead with courage and authenticity. Participants will leave empowered to speak up, innovate boldly, build stronger relationships, and create environments where every child—and every adult—is encouraged to become one of a kind.

Michelle Poler is a Venezuelan-born brand and community strategist, published author, and speaker. Her career skyrocketed after launching the “100 Days Without Fear” viral project, which led to the founding of the Hello Fears brand, and evolved into a global movement that inspired over 70 million individuals to choose growth over comfort in life and at work.

After tapping into the full potential of her personal brand and building a robust community around it, Michelle now helps leaders, and organizations become Irreplaceable, through powerful keynotes and workshops. She realized that her leadership style makes people feel seen, heard and valued. To further this mission, she conducted a national research study exploring how abundant leadership fosters community at work while positively impacting employee confidence, performance, and loyalty.

In addition, Michelle founded Créetelo (Believe It), a global membership community for thousands of Hispanic founders, which hosts an annual leadership summit, CréeteloCon. Michelle is the published author of Hello, Fears: Crush Your Comfort Zone and Become Who You’re Meant to Be, which has been translated into multiple languages and distributed across four continents, and the Audible Original: 21 Days to Believe in Yourself. She has spoken at over 600 industry-leading organizations, including The Global Leadership Summit, Google, P&G, ESPN, TEDx, Netflix, Microsoft, Meta, General Mills, YUM! Brands, and her work has been featured on The TODAY Show, Forbes, CBS, FOX, CNN, Buzzfeed, The Huffington Post, Telemundo, Refinery29, and other relevant media outlets. Michelle holds a master’s degree in Branding from the School of Visual Arts in New York City, and worked as Art Director at Y&R for brands like Hershey’s, Wendy’s, AT&T, and Revlon.

When she’s not speaking or traveling, Michelle enjoys drinking matcha at home in Miami and living life to the fullest with her husband (and business partner) Adam, and their children, Noah and Arielle.

Dr. Sue Varma

Montessori recognized that the well-being of the adult is inseparable from the well-being of the child. Every prepared environment begins with a prepared adult—one who is selfaware, emotionally grounded, and able to bring presence, optimism, and resilience to their work. As the demands on educators and leaders continue to grow, caring for ourselves is no longer optional; it is essential to fulfilling our mission.

In this inspiring closing keynote, board-certified psychiatrist, bestselling author, and nationally recognized mental health expert Dr. Sue Varma shares a practical, sciencebacked framework for cultivating resilience, purpose, and lasting well-being. Drawing on more than two decades of clinical experience, Dr. Varma introduces her 4 Ms of Mental Health—Mindfulness, Meaningful Engagement, Movement, and Mastery—simple yet powerful daily practices that strengthen mental wellness and create the foundation for a thriving life.

Blending compelling stories, research, humor, and immediately applicable strategies, Dr. Varma explores how intentional habits can help us navigate stress, embrace change, strengthen relationships, and move beyond resilience toward genuine flourishing. Participants will leave with practical tools to increase optimism, sustain energy, and lead with greater purpose and compassion in both their personal and professional lives. A fitting conclusion to The Montessori Event, this keynote is a powerful reminder that when we invest in the well-being of the adult, we create the conditions for children, schools, and communities to flourish.

Dr. Sue Varma, MD, PC, DFAPA, is a distinguished psychiatrist and cognitive behavioral therapist based in New York City. With over two decades of private practice experience, Dr. Varma has made significant contributions to the field of mental health. Notably, she served as the pioneering medical director and psychiatrist for the esteemed 9/11 mental health program at NYU. Alongside her clinical work, Dr. Varma holds the position of Clinical Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at New York University (NYU) Langone Health. Her accomplishments have been recognized by the American Psychiatric Association (APA), where she was honored as a Distinguished Fellow, the highest honor bestowed upon its members.

Dr. Varma has garnered national acclaim as a sought-after medical commentator, appearing on major news programs and networks. Her expertise has been instrumental in guiding the public through various mental health challenges, from trauma and resilience to stress management and relationship issues. Dr. Varma can frequently be seen discussing breaking news on the morning shows, including the Today Show, CBS Mornings and GMA, as well as prime time specials and news documentaries. An accomplished author, Dr. Varma’s highly anticipated book, “Practical Optimism, The Art, Science and Practice of Exceptional Wellbeing” (Penguin Random House, 2/2024), offers valuable insights into promoting optimal mental health and wellness. In addition to her media contributions, Dr. Varma is a captivating speaker, engaging diverse audiences with her messages of inspiration, compassion, and hope. From C-suite executives to healthcare professionals, educators, and the general public, she imparts valuable knowledge on topics such as selfcompassion, psychological safety, work-life balance, and women’s mental health.

Throughout her career, Dr. Varma has received numerous prestigious awards for her groundbreaking work in mental health education and advocacy, including the Sharecare Emmy and a Mayoral Proclamation. Notably, she was recognized as one of the world’s top five leading health experts by Global Citizen for her contributions during the pandemic. Dr. Varma’s integrative approach to mental health, encompassing the 4 Ms of mental health, empowers individuals to boost their mood, mastery, and sense of meaning in life.