Our Programs

MONTESSORI

We are inspired by the Maria Montessori style of learning. This method of learning is applicable for a variety of ages, but is most commonly used for children ages 3-6. We use a variety of "works" to allow children to explore their environment. These "works" encourage independence, fine motor skills, and observation.

PROJECT BASED LEARNING

For children above the age of 6 we encourage further educational independence through engaging project. Children will explore History and Science through a variety of self selected topics. The children will use art, creative writing, and experiments to explore the world around them.

MUSIC AND MOVEMENT

This class is for children of all ages. The older children spend time learning how to read music and sing a variety of hymns and worship music. They also get an opportunity to learn how to play music on instruments such as the xylophone. Young children learn worship and learning songs with hand motions and dances.

BUILDING CATHOLIC COMMUNITY

The greatest strength of our co-op is the strong sense of community.  It is such a blessing to growing faith with such wonderful families. Both the children and mothers love and appreciate the community and fellowship we get to partake in each week.

Leadership Bio's

FOUNDER + DIRECTOR | ACADEMIC COORDINATOR

Amanda Baker // aadbaker@gmail.com // 616-340-4640

Amanda serves as the Founder of Our Daily Bread Co-op which was founded in 2020 out of her home with just a handful of families. Amanda's roles are many! She is the group's main teacher, bringing her many years of teaching late elementary + middle school students to the co-op classrooms, as well as her passion for project-based learning which allows our developing children the proper space to learn and engage in activities, all while having fun. Amanda passionately provides faith enrichment throughout the year as she shares her faith, focusing on the Church's liturgical calendar, feast days, and the lives of the saints. From directing operations to teaching lessons, her skills and talents have been essential in the founding of such a great community. Amanda and her husband, Matthew, live in Sparta with their 5 children.

CO-DIRECTOR+ MONTESSORI TEAM LEAD

Elizabeth Quellet // elizabethmariequellet@gmail.com // (616) 953-0110

In partnership with the parish, Elizabeth serves as Daily Bread's lead teacher for Catechism of the Good Shepherd. She is certified in Levels I + II of CGS and has a degree in Elementary Education. She has been teaching CGS + Montessori in various parishes over the last 10 years. Alongside her passion in education, she enjoys gardening and remaining active in parish ministry. Elizabeth and her husband, Ryan, live in Grandville with their 3 children.

TEACHER + ACADEMIC ASSISTANT

Diane Pickle // dianepickle@gmail.com // 616-340-7223

Mother + Grandmother to Amanda and her children, Diane is readily available to bring her past 3 decades of teaching experience into the classroom. With a background in Developmental Kindergarten + Special Education, she is a great addition to the program as she shares in her many areas of expertise and years of experience. Along with her organizational skills, Diane brings a special zeal for learning as she works one-on-one building relationships in the classroom. From favorite books to special crafts + activities, she has a great passion for teaching children of all ages! Diane is an artist at heart, and her husband David a musician. They have been married 20 years and reside in Sparta.

MUSIC DIRECTOR + TEACHER

Katie Jandernoa // katieallen2522@gmail.com // 616-460-8835

Katie brings her love for music, education, + faith to the group. She has a robust background in education, teaching elementary classes, music classes, and has experience in Montessori teaching. She serves as the current Music Director at Blessed Sacrament Parish. Katie shares in her many talents by directing the co-op children in music + movement sessions, choir lessons, as well as teaching them faith based songs to enrich their spiritual development through music. Along with leading in music ministry, Katie is one of the main preschool teachers for the co-op. She is a gentle inspiration offering a solid foundational support for Our Daily Bread Co-op as she has been a member from the start! She and her husband, Chase, have 5 children and reside in Plainfield Township.