Our Community

Bria Mertens is an attorney and former Montessori parent. A strong advocate for lifelong learning, Bria was eager to join the Pinyon board to help create a new space for Montessori learners to benefit from this wonderful method. In her role as an attorney at Myriad Genetics, Bria focuses on collaborations with strategic partners to help bring valuable health insights to people through genetic testing. Two of Bria's greatest passions are helping people reach agreement over their shared values, and solving problems with words. She is a writer, a runner, an unapologetic craft nerd, and a mom to kids and dogs.

Selina Gorst is a passionate community activist who began her advocacy and empowerment work at the young age of 15. After moving to Salt Lake City from Europe, Selina became a volunteer for the Inclusion Center where she facilitated discussions on topics such as intersectionality, prejudice, discrimination, and conflict resolution. Currently, Selina serves as an advisory member for the Inclusion Center. For the past 7 years, she has been with the Utah Domestic Violence Coalition in various roles including prevention coordinator, project manager, interim executive director, and most recently, Director of Programs. Selina's extensive experience in community work drives her to continue making an impact through advocacy and education, aligning with her strong support for Pinyon school's mission.

Nanette Cenaruzabeitia joins Pinyon Montessori Board with extensive Montessori experience. Her journey began in 1986 with an Early Childhood certification from Little Way Montessori. Over two decades, she taught and earned an Infant/Toddler certification from North American Montessori Center, later from The Institute of Guided Studies. Transitioning to Administration, Nanette became Director of Staff Development, supporting staff, students, and parents for ten years. Her resignation in January 2023 marked a new phase.

Nanette cherishes unexpected joy from being both a Montessori educator and a parent/grandparent. This unique perspective unveiled the broader impact of Montessori principles. With gratitude, Nanette envisions Pinyon as a pioneering Montessori model for the future.

David (He/His/Him) is an elementary Montessori guide and husband. He embarked on his educational journey 11 years ago in Toluca, Mexico, his hometown. David has had the opportunity to pursue studies in electronic engineering and a bachelor's degree in Pedagogy. Subsequently, he acquired diplomas as an assistant for children's house and children's community, and ultimately for elementary education (ages 6 to 12). Additionally, he holds a diploma in education for individuals with diverse needs and in physical education. Today, he is fortunate to serve as the leader of an Elementary school in Dahlia, San Francisco.

He enjoys running, baseball, and various sports, as well as exploring new places and cuisines. His greatest passion lies in spending time with his family and friends. 

Christina Economy holds her Early Childhood teaching certificate through the American Montessori Society. Christina enjoyed being a Spanish Montessori Teacher in a Dual Language classroom before taking time away from the classroom to raise her daughter. Christina received her Bachelor of Arts from CSU Long Beach in Textile and Clothing Design as well as Fashion Merchandising. She was thrilled to make the fulfilling switch from the fashion industry to Montessori. Christina was born and raised in Southern California  and moved to Salt Lake City with her husband in 2016. Their love for the outdoors is what brought them to Utah. From the fast pace of the fashion industry to the throughout presentation in the Montessori classroom, Christina brings a wealth of perspectives to the Pinyon Board and looks forward to the impact the school could have in a community.