Our Educational Vision
At Mid Cape Montessori, we believe in the power of Montessori education to cultivate the unique potential of all children, including neurodivergent students. The Montessori method naturally lends itself to teaching students social-emotional regulation skills, executive functioning skills, and promoting independence and choice. ​ You can read more about the Montessori method here. ​ Check out our FAQ page here.
About the Founder:
Cate Van Gelder, MPA Head of School
Cate Van Gelder is a seasoned nonprofit leader and Montessori educator with over 15 years of experience in educational leadership and civic-focused program development. As the Founding Head of School at Mid Cape Montessori in Brewster, MA, Cate brings a deep commitment to progressive education, student-centered learning, and neurodivergent inclusion. Her expertise spans Montessori instruction, nonprofit management, and strategic organizational growth.
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Before launching Mid Cape Montessori, Cate co-founded and directed operations for two Cape Cod-based human service nonprofits—Transitions Centers, Inc. and Moving Forward, Inc.—both serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. A Mount Holyoke alumna with a master’s in Public Administration from Bridgewater State University, Cate blends academic rigor with heartfelt community advocacy. Her leadership has earned multiple program accreditations, government contracts, and a “40 Under 40” award from Cape & Plymouth Business.
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Cate is passionate about reimagining education for real life, with a focus on executive functioning, sensory-integrated learning, and flexible curriculum design. As both a school founder and classroom teacher, she champions a hands-on, individualized learning environment tailored especially for students with ADHD, 504 plans, and other nontraditional learning profiles.
Teacher Spotlight: Beth Priddy
Beth Priddy is a passionate and inclusive educator originally from Mississippi, now proud to call Cape Cod home. They hold a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Mississippi State University with a concentration in middle school education. Beth is licensed to teach in both Mississippi and Virginia, and has experience working with students across multiple grade levels, from second to fifth grade.
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Beth’s teaching background includes roles in both general education and support settings, where they have worked extensively with neurodivergent students, English language learners, and children with diverse academic and emotional needs. Their approach is grounded in respect for each child’s individuality and a strong belief in differentiated, student-centered learning. In addition to their classroom teaching, Beth brings a wide range of professional skills including curriculum development, classroom management, social-emotional learning, and collaborative teaching practices.
Since relocating to Cape Cod in July, Beth has been eager to build new connections and contribute to a learning community that values equity, creativity, and whole-child development. They are especially drawn to environments that nurture curiosity, independence, and a deep love of learning—qualities they strive to cultivate in every student they teach.
Get in Touch
11 Satucket Rd, Brewster, MA