Her Story
About Acacia
Acacia Gilmer is the Regional Program Lead for Guidepost Global Education, where she oversees program quality across 19 Montessori schools throughout the West Coast. She has dedicated nearly 30 years to Montessori education, including approximately five years with Guidepost Global Education. Her responsibilities include providing training and leadership development for campus administrators, conducting observations and providing feedback to more than 300 teachers, and managing the Onward Peer Mentor Program.
In her leadership role, Acacia works across both remote and on-site settings to support high-fidelity Montessori practices and strengthen educational programs. She contributes to classroom environment design, developmental milestone tracking, extracurricular programming, hiring, data analysis, and communications. Her approach to education centers on guiding with heart, supporting lifelong learning, and creating transformative experiences that connect children, families, and educators.
Acacia’s passion for Montessori education is also connected to her desire to model lifelong learning for her three sons, one of whom became a Montessori teacher, as well as to extend the benefits of Montessori education to her grandchildren and adopted niece. Her professional philosophy emphasizes personal growth, thoughtful leadership, and recognizing the possibilities that can emerge when educators truly engage with the classroom and the children they serve.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Acacia
01What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would encourage young women to spend time inside a classroom and truly absorb what is happening within the classroom environment and the possibilities that this work can offer. I believe it is important to find yourself in the work and recognize the many stories of transformation that come from this field. Montessori education provides an opportunity for meaningful intrinsic self-work through the experiences we create in the classroom every day. By guiding with our hearts and seeing ourselves reflected in children within that space, we can discover something truly profound about ourselves and the impact we can have on others.
02What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
My work and personal life are grounded in lifelong learning, leading with heart, personal growth, and creating transformative experiences for others. I value supporting children, families, and educators while helping create opportunities for people to thrive. I am also passionate about making Montessori education accessible to families from all socioeconomic backgrounds and creating meaningful connections between home and school.
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