Theresa Sprain

Theresa Sprain: Theresa Bruno Sprain is the Head of School, and she co-founded it in 1982, with her father, Joseph S. Bruno. She has led the school from a starting class of four preschool children to now serving over 200 students, toddlers – eighth grade. Due to her strong desire for students to enjoy a natural environment rich in learning experiences and unique in the possibilities for personal growth, understanding, respect, and responsibility, she oversaw the campus expanding from 10 acres to 25 acres of fields, and outdoor classroom, wildlife, and gardens. Theresa attended Birmingham-Southern College and received a Bachelor of Music in piano and a Bachelor of Arts in history and her teaching certification. She furthered her education at UAB where she earned a Masters in Special Education with an emphasis in gifted and learning disabilities in addition to her administrative certification. Knowing she believed in the Montessori philosophy as the best approach to nurturing children to their fullest potential, Theresa went to the Memphis Montessori Institute to earn her Primary Montessori Certification. Since then, she has supported countless others in obtaining their Montessori educations in order that children can develop in a learner-centered environment focused on how they learn and what they understand. Theresa’s passion and dedication continue to provide the foundation for a lifetime of learning for the students and teachers at JBMA. Lastly, she is a member of The Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development, as well as JustFaith at Our Lady of the Valley. 

e-mail: Theresa Sprain