Mary Merlis, Lead Teacher

Mary has been working with kids of all ages and abilities for over 15 years.

Mary earned a Bachelors of Science degree in Human Growth and Development and Developmental Psychology from Wheelock College, concentrating in human services and autism. During her years working with individuals of all ages, Mary volunteered as a Special Olympics coach, supervised clinical operation programs for young children with autism, and worked at a residential school program for students with special needs. In addition, Mary has worked in a variety of school settings and playgroups. For the last 7 years, she has supported the early development of hundreds of children from ages 0 to 3 as a behavioral therapist, conducting play and social-based in-home therapy.

Mary has always loved exploring and learning in the outdoors. More often than not, you can find her at museums, day-hiking, traveling, shell-hunting at the beach, and bouncing around Massachusetts parks with her two small children. She also loves to cook and paint! She loves engaging with all aspects of nature to support the learning and development of her students. She cannot wait for another year to learn and  play in the mud at BOPN!