Today we’d like to introduce you to Christiane Roussell Willis.
Hi Christiane, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My story really begins with my mom. In 1973, she was teaching in the Los Angeles Unified School District while my older sister attended a Montessori preschool. As both a teacher and a mother, she realized that she wanted something more for her own child — something more child-centered and nurturing than what she saw in traditional classrooms. So, she made a bold and faithful decision: she purchased that little Montessori preschool and began the journey of growing it into a full elementary school. She was a single, recently divorced mom at the time, and many people thought she was taking an enormous risk. But she had deep faith, determination, and the example of entrepreneurs in her own family who taught her how to forge her own path. That’s how Escuela de Montessori was born — with one classroom, a lot of prayer, and an unshakable belief that children deserve more.
I grew up in that school — quite literally. My mom taught my sister and me not only academics but also the inner workings of the school itself. From a young age, I learned the value of community, leadership, and purpose-driven work. After college, I came full circle and taught 4th grade at Escuela de Montessori before deciding to attend law school. Around that time, my mom sold the school to pursue other ventures, and I went on to build a career in employment law and human resources, ultimately serving as an HR executive for many years.
About 15 years ago, my mom followed her calling once again and founded Escuela Plus Elementary. Over the years, I’ve stayed closely connected with her and with the school’s mission. Two years ago, I felt a strong pull to step away from corporate America and return to my roots — to become part of the next chapter of the legacy my mom began more than 50 years ago. I joined Escuela Plus as Assistant Head of School to learn the ropes and support her leadership, and this past August, I officially became Head of School.
It’s been an incredible, full-circle journey — from growing up in my mom’s classroom to now leading a school she founded. It’s a tremendous honor to continue her vision and help take Escuela Plus Elementary to the next level.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I feel very fortunate that this transition has been a smooth and fulfilling one. Moving from corporate leadership into education felt like a natural step rather than a leap — I was ready for the change, and the Escuela Plus community has made it an incredibly positive experience. Our parents, teachers, and staff have been so supportive and welcoming, which has meant a great deal to me.
My background as an employment attorney and HR executive has also been tremendously beneficial. It’s helped me ensure compliance and navigate employee relations with confidence, but more importantly, it’s deepened my understanding of people — how to listen actively, appreciate different perspectives, and foster an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and can be their authentic selves.
It’s also been a tremendous gift to have my mom still teaching at Escuela Plus Elementary. She has embraced this transition wholeheartedly and has been both proud and encouraging as I’ve stepped into this new role. After so many years of leading the school, she’s enjoying the opportunity to focus more on the classroom while I take on the broader leadership responsibilities. Her support and presence have made this new chapter especially meaningful.
We’ve been impressed with Escuela Plus Elementary, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Escuela Plus Elementary is a TK through 5th grade independent school located in Baldwin Hills. We believe that now, more than ever, children need places where they are known, valued, and challenged to grow — not just academically, but as whole human beings. Escuela Plus provides that balance of rigorous education (our curriculum is 1-2 years above grade level) and genuine care that has always been our foundation.
In a world that often moves too fast and feels too impersonal, small, mission-driven schools like ours remain vital. We nurture curiosity, empathy, and resilience — qualities that prepare children to thrive no matter what the future brings. What truly sets us apart is our ability to combine academic excellence with warmth, connection, and individualized attention.
My mom’s original vision is still at the heart of everything we do. Her deep belief that children learn best in an atmosphere of respect and kindness continues to guide us. Even as we evolve and modernize, that core philosophy — that education should bring out the best in every child — remains unchanged.
Education is changing rapidly, from new technologies to shifting expectations and social pressures. But Escuela Plus has always thrived by staying true to its values while adapting thoughtfully. Our strength lies in our community, our commitment to individualized learning, and our ability to evolve without losing our heart. Whatever challenges come, we’ll continue to be a place where children are seen, supported, and encouraged to become their best selves.
Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
Something that might surprise people is that my foundation is rooted in theater. I loved acting in plays throughout high school and college and even earned a minor in theater at Georgetown. That experience really shaped how I communicate today — it taught me to listen deeply, be present, and think intentionally about how I express myself. Those skills have carried over into my professional life in so many ways — from public speaking and presenting to leading trainings and engaging with different audiences.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.escuelapluselementary.com
- Instagram: @escuelapluselementary
Image Credits
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