Nichole Holtvluwer (pronounced holt-fluer) has dedicated her career to serving as an advocate and guide for both children and adults, with a focus on the earliest years of life—what Dr. Montessori described as “the absorbent mind.” Her work is grounded in Montessori principles, culturally responsive practice, and peace education. She is committed to following the child and family while creating environments rooted in intention, purpose, beauty, love, and joy.

Nichole discovered Montessori education after years of working as a “neighborhood nanny,” and was immediately drawn to the capabilities of the young child. She completed her AMI Assistants to Infancy 0-3 training at the Montessori Institute of Denver in 2005 and has worked in Montessori communities ever since. She is deeply committed to lifelong learning and equity-centered practice, and continues to evolve her work through ongoing study and collaboration. She believes, simply, “I am still learning.”

For more than two decades, she served as a Lead Guide for young children in the Denver and Foothills communities, helping to establish environments for our youngest learners (birth-3yo), mentor new guides, and support the growth of strong, connected classroom communities.

In 2016, she expanded her work through Radicle Beginnings, where she offers consultations, mentorships, and workshops to support adults in serving the young child. She has presented at conferences and for schools across North America, including AMI, AMS, and NAMTA conferences, and continues to offer online learning experiences for educators and caregivers around the world.

She and her family—her husband, daughter, and dog—recently relocated after three years in Lāna‘i, Hawai‘i, where Nichole helped establish and grow the island's first and only Montessori school. They are grateful to now call Colorado home again. Her daughter, Edie, is a kindergarten student in the Children’s House at Mountain Shadows.

Nichole is honored to serve as Director of Early Childhood Education at Mountain Shadows International Montessori School, supporting guides, partnering with families, and nurturing environments where children can thrive.