About Us
In 2020, two dedicated Montessori educators came together to create The Peace Tree Montessori—a small, home-based school where children in the Ottawa West community could thrive, even amid the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. With a rich, holistic Montessori Casa program, the school became a nurturing space where curiosity flourished and learning felt joyful.
After the pandemic, Ms. Ling Tian, the school's owner and director, envisioned something even greater—a learning space that could bring the benefits of Montessori education to more families in a way that fits their modern lives. This vision led to the creation of The Peace Tree Learning Center.
With a flexible, child-centered approach, we are dedicated to making Montessori education more accessible, empowering more children to grow with confidence, independence, and a lifelong love of learning.
Our Philosophy
Our approach fosters curiosity, independence, and a deep love of learning, creating a strong foundation for lifelong success. We embrace the proverb, "It takes a village to raise a child," building a supportive community where educators, parents, and children grow together. The name Peace Tree reflects our commitment to unity, cultural appreciation, and peace, empowering children to become compassionate, engaged global citizens.
At Peace Tree Learning Center, we believe Montessori education nurtures the whole child—academically, socially, and emotionally.
Mission
We make Montessori education more accessible by offering flexible, enriched learning programs that complement both homeschool and traditional education.
Our approach nurtures curiosity, independence, and a love of learning, empowering children to grow with confidence and respect for the world around them.
Vision
We envision a future where Montessori education is widely accessible, nurturing lifelong learners who are compassionate, engaged, and equipped to thrive in a diverse, ever-changing world.
Meet The Team
Ms. Ling Tian
Founder, Director, Montessori Educator
Ms. Ling Tian is the Founder and Director of The Peace Tree Learning Centre and a certified Montessori educator with a passion for providing high-quality, child-centred early education. She holds an Honours Bachelor of Science in Human Biology from the University of Toronto and has a diverse professional background spanning research, technology, and education.
Since founding Peace Tree in 2020, Ms. Ling has been dedicated to creating innovative and boutique style Montessori programs that nurture children's independence, curiosity, confidence, and love of learning. She believes every child deserves a supportive environment where they can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally while developing their unique potential.
Through her leadership, Ms. Ling continues to combine authentic Montessori principles with innovative approaches that make meaningful early learning experiences accessible to families in the community.
Ms. Karen Doughan
Educator
Ms. Karen Doughan is an experienced educator who brings warmth, dedication, and a child-centred approach to her work at Peace Tree Learning Centre. She holds a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Education (Primary/Junior, magna cum laude) from the University of Ottawa, along with qualifications as a Reading Specialist from Queens University. She is also a member of the Ontario College of Teachers and is fully bilingual.
Having attended a Montessori school herself and trained in Montessori education, Ms. Karen values hands-on, experiential learning and enjoys supporting each child's unique developmental journey. She is passionate about fostering independence, confidence, and a love of learning while helping children develop strong academic and social foundations.
Her thoughtful and nurturing approach helps create a welcoming environment where children feel respected, capable, and encouraged to reach their full potential.
