Maria Chirinos
Spanish Teacher &
Teaching Assistant
mchirinos@nantucketlighthouseschool.org
Meet Maria
A.A. Harper College
Maria is an experienced and engaging bilingual educator with a passion for teaching children with diverse backgrounds and learning styles. Before joining the Special Services Department at Nantucket Public Schools, Maria directed the Spanish Literacy Program at Nantucket Atheneum, where she also served as an ESOL instructor. Additionally, Maria has worked at Nantucket Community School, where she planned and executed early childhood events and after-school Spanish instruction.
With empathy and energy, Maria goes to great lengths to create a positive, personalized learning environment that promotes curiosity and kindness. Maria enjoys opportunities to incorporate STEAM into classroom instruction. A lifelong learner, she continues to pursue professional development, completing coursework at Cape Cod Community College in child psychology and children’s literature.
Maria is thrilled to join her two children, Ivan and Sofi, at Nantucket Lighthouse School!
What Nantucket Lighthouse School means to Maria
"Living on Nantucket as a parent, I believe that Nantucket Lighthouse School is the perfect place for my children. The welcoming staff genuinely understand and appreciate each child's unique qualities, making us feel at home from the moment we walked in. The school not only focuses on academic excellence but also encourages creativity and curiosity, going beyond traditional textbooks to promote hands-on learning and exploration that ignites my children's imagination.
What makes Nantucket Lighthouse School stand out is its inclusive and supportive environment. The school celebrates diversity and prioritizes kindness in everything they do. Moreover, integrating art and nature into daily learning enriches my children's experience; whether they're exploring the school's garden, knitting, building a robot, learning in an outdoor classroom, or participating in any other outdoor activity, this fosters a deep connection with themselves and nature, nurturing appreciation and responsibility.
I also value the mindfulness practices incorporated into my children's daily routines. These practices help develop emotional intelligence and resilience in students. Choosing Nantucket Lighthouse School for my children has been one of the best decisions we've made as a family. It's a place where learning is joyful, friendships are formed, and every child is empowered to reach their fullest potential. I feel thankful to be part of such a caring and inspiring educational community."
