Monda Gjeka-Arch

Elementary Studio Educator (Atelierista) & Elementary Environmental Specialist

Monda was born and raised in Albania, where her passion for language, art, and education first began. She studied at the University Luigj Gurakuqi Shkoder, within the Faculty of Social Sciences, earning her degree in Linguistics and Literacy with a major in World Literature and the Art of the Albanian Language—one of the oldest Indo-European languages.

After graduation, she began her teaching career in Albania as a high school educator at the Prenk Jakova School of Music and Arts and at the Gymnasium in Ura e Mesit, Shkoder, where she taught for four years before moving to the United States.

In 2001, Monda relocated to the U.S. and initially worked in customer service and business management. From 2007 to 2015, Monda also served as a professional interpreter with Lionbridge Interpreters, providing linguistic support in the Immigration Court of Miami and Broward County Courts. In this role, she facilitated communication between judges, attorneys, and individuals navigating complex legal proceedings, ensuring that every voice was heard and understood with accuracy and respect.

Her passion for education, however, quickly led her back to the classroom. In 2005, she joined The Innovative School at Temple Beth Sholom, where she became a valued member of the team. During this time, she studied English at Miami Dade College and earned her Child Development Associate (CDA) certification, along with numerous professional development courses focused on designing developmentally appropriate practices for young children across subjects such as math, science, art, music, health, safety, and nutrition. She also explored research-based approaches on the seven essential life skills children need to succeed.

Throughout her career, Monda has actively sought opportunities for professional growth. She has attended numerous professional development programs and visited Reggio-inspired schools across the United States, as well as the schools of Reggio Emilia, Italy. There, she participated in training conferences to deepen her understanding of the Reggio Emilia philosophy and has since applied these principles to enrich the teaching and learning practices within her school community. Since 2005, Monda has been an integral part of The Innovative School, where she now serves as the Elementary Studio Educator (Atelierista) and Environmental Specialist. In this role, she collaborates closely with elementary educators and learners to foster inquiry and creativity through interdisciplinary explorations in social studies, science, and art.

Outside of her professional life, Monda enjoys painting, costume design, interior decorating, photography, planting, reading, and cooking. She finds inspiration through travel with her husband, Arden, and through meaningful conversations with people from diverse backgrounds. Above all, her greatest source of strength and inspiration is her family, whom she holds closest to her heart and credits for all her achievements. Now in her 21st year of teaching at The Innovative School and her 25th year in education, Monda continues to find joy in learning, growing, and giving back to her community. She looks forward to many more years of inspiring learners and nurturing creativity through meaningful, hands-on experiences.

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