Connected through Reggio Emilia and Chicago

Reggio Chicago features the gentle leadership of Ms. Amy Marie Ewaldt, MAT & Marni Nissen Olmstead

Ms. Amy Marie Ewaldt, MAT is a rights advocate and dynamic community leader.

Former owner and director of Reggio Emilia informed Cortland Preschool (Logan Square, Chicago), Ms. Ewaldt has two decades of public, private, and not for profit teaching, directing, and leadership experience—from early childhood to higher education.

In addition to currently practicing Reggio Emilia Approach (REA)* in an urban context, Reggio Chicago offers highly individualized consulting experiences and development journeys for:

-Play based, hands-on learning

-Gardening and nature focused learning

-“Reggio curious” learning and tuning in existing programs

-Constructivist conversations that further the goals and dreams of the individual, team, or organization

LEARN MORE: Professional projects, community focused pursuits, gardening, and fun at amyewaldt.com

Marni Nissen Olmstead

Marni is a passionate educator dedicated to shaping vibrant and creative learning environments. As a seasoned educator with over three decades of experience, she focuses on creating dynamic learning environments. Specializing in emergent literacy and arts integration, Marni believes that both are essential for fostering a child's natural curiosity and building foundational skills. As a professor at Columbia College Chicago, she guided students on their path to becoming teachers, emphasizing the power of curiosity and exploration alongside emergent literacy—highlighting the idea that learning to read and write is a continuous, natural process. She also believes in the transformative role of integrating the arts in the learning process. Marni’s teaching journey spans from public and private schools to community organizations across the Chicago area. She mentors and coaches working teachers, inspiring and empowering them to build relationships and use curiosity to ignite a love of learning and build a strong foundation for every child.

Reach out to say hello, and let us know what you are most interested in. One small, active step can launch or reignite your journey!‍ ‍

*Kindly note: Reggio Chicago is in no way affiliated with or a part of Reggio Children or any of the partner organizations of Reggio Emilia, Italy. We recommend you search reggiochildren.it for more information regarding Reggio Emilia approach that is authentic to and born of Reggio Emilia, Italy. This is an essential tool/best starting point for any Reggio curious educators. We are Reggio Emilia Approach informed, inspired, and currently in practice.