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Alice Hauschka's picture

Alice Hauschka

Assistant Head of School
B.A. in Philosophy, Oberlin College
Teaching Certificate (PS-8), Pacific Oaks College
M.Ed, University of Washington
Joined TLS: 1991
aliceh@thelittleschool.org
425-827-4609 ext. 141
BIO
Alice Hauschka's picture

Alice Hauschka

Assistant Head of School
B.A. in Philosophy, Oberlin College
Teaching Certificate (PS-8), Pacific Oaks College
M.Ed, University of Washington
aliceh@thelittleschool.org
Alice’s connection to The Little School goes back to 1973 when she was a 4-year-old student. As an educator, she has spent most of her career as a teacher, and now an administrator, at TLS, where she feels incredibly fortunate to witness and support powerful teaching and joyful learning every day. She is dedicated to school leadership that serves the school’s mission. As assistant head, she is especially passionate about coaching and collaborating with teachers and staff so that they are continually growing, learning and doing their best work with children and families. Outside of school, Alice loves rock climbing, gardening, running and is learning to play the fiddle. Alice lives in Seattle with her husband, Sean. Their greatest joy has been raising their two sons, now young adults, watching them flourish out in the world and welcoming them back to the nest whenever they’re hungry for a home-cooked meal.
Alison Bower's picture

Alison Bower

Teacher
B.A., Colgate University
M.A., Columbia University Teachers College
Joined TLS: 2018
alisonb@thelittleschool.org
425-827-8708
BIO
Alison Bower's picture

Alison Bower

Teacher
B.A., Colgate University
M.A., Columbia University Teachers College
alisonb@thelittleschool.org
Alison has been an educator in one form or another for her entire professional life. As a teacher at The Little School, Alison enjoys fostering a classroom environment in which motion, play, laughter and purposeful activities enliven the imagination of her students. It is her goal to utilize the experience she has gained from being a classroom teacher, an assistant head of school and a parent educator to create a welcoming, joyful learning environment for her students and families. Alison’s interests lay in how both adults and children learn to incorporate and act upon new information, work with one another and see themselves as agents for good in the world around them. Alison’s favorite thing to do in her spare time is to spend time with her sons, Aodhan and Malcolm, on tennis courts, trampolines and in the water.
Amanda Haecker's picture

Amanda Haecker

Teacher
B.A. in International Studies, Seattle University
M.Ed. in Elementary Education, University of Washington
Joined TLS: 2015
amandah@thelittleschool.org
425-827-8708
BIO
Amanda Haecker's picture

Amanda Haecker

Teacher
B.A. in International Studies, Seattle University
M.Ed. in Elementary Education, University of Washington
amandah@thelittleschool.org
Amanda has taught children aged 5-11 in several Seattle area schools and is happy to have found her home as an educator at The Little School. Her approach to progressive education is inspired by children’s natural curiosities, supporting students in developing their voices as members of a community, and engaging with their experiences to make learning exciting and relevant. She is especially passionate about teaching math and helping children discover the beauty and joy in playing with mathematical ideas. Outside of school, Amanda loves thinking about food – whether that’s planning her next cooking adventure, reading new cookbooks or eating with the people who are important to her. She also loves to be outdoors, soaking up the sun, biking and cultivating her tiny garden.
Andrea Wong's picture

Andrea Wong

Associate Teacher
B.S. in Aquatic and Fishery Sciences, University of Washington
M.A.T., Northwest University
Joined TLS: 2019
andreaw@thelittleschool.org
425-827-8708
BIO
Andrea Wong's picture

Andrea Wong

Associate Teacher
B.S. in Aquatic and Fishery Sciences, University of Washington
M.A.T., Northwest University
andreaw@thelittleschool.org
Andrea has always been an avid learner, and she has definitely learned the most from working with children. Seeing how children engage with the world around them has taught her so much about life –  how to adapt to new situations, to learn from mistakes, and to embrace joy in every circumstance. While pursuing a degree in science, Andrea joined a program to help out in a local preschool classroom. There she realized that working with young children was incomparably more enjoyable than working with laboratory samples. Andrea is grateful to be a part of the community of life-long learners here at The Little School. 
Ashley Cappelli's picture

Ashley Cappelli

Creative Movement, Music & Drama Specialist
B.A. in Music Education and Vocal Performance, State University of New York
M.A. in Music/Vocal Pedagogy, University of North Carolina at Greensboro
Joined TLS: 2019
ashleyc@thelittleschool.org
425-827-8708
BIO
Ashley Cappelli's picture

Ashley Cappelli

Creative Movement, Music & Drama Specialist
B.A. in Music Education and Vocal Performance, State University of New York
M.A. in Music/Vocal Pedagogy, University of North Carolina at Greensboro
ashleyc@thelittleschool.org
During the summer of 2018, Ashley participated in the Si Parla, Si Canta program over in Urbania, Italy performing opera scenes and operatic solos. She last taught at Van Duyn Elementary in the Syracuse City School District through a non-profit theater, RedHouse. There she taught PK through fifth grade music, drama, visual arts and dance.
Aurora McCone's picture

Aurora McCone

Teacher
B.A. in Humanities for Teaching, Seattle University
M.Ed., Seattle University
Joined TLS: 2020
auroram@thelittleschool.org
425-827-8708
BIO
Aurora McCone's picture

Aurora McCone

Teacher
B.A. in Humanities for Teaching, Seattle University
M.Ed., Seattle University
auroram@thelittleschool.org
Aurora is a Seattle native with a passion for alternative education. She believes learning should be engaging, interactive and fun. The best learning is done when following a student’s natural curiosity. Globally minded, Aurora has also spent time teaching in rural and urban Japan before earning her Master’s in Teaching from Seattle University. When she’s not looking for new books for her classroom, Aurora loves cooking, reading, playing video games and being with her puppy, Mando.
Becky Dolan's picture

Becky Dolan

Director of Development & Community Relations
B.A. in Early Childhood Education, Central Washington University
Joined TLS: 2014
beckyd@thelittleschool.org
425-827-4609 ext. 106
BIO
Becky Dolan's picture

Becky Dolan

Director of Development & Community Relations
B.A. in Early Childhood Education, Central Washington University
beckyd@thelittleschool.org
For as long as she can remember, Becky has benefited from amazing teachers. They instilled in her a love of school and a strong belief in the importance of the relationship between student and teacher and, by extension, family and school. Becky taught first grade before pausing her professional career to raise her children. When returning to the workforce, it was a natural fit for her to work in Development and help support and share the amazing experiences happening in classrooms. In her personal time, Becky enjoys traveling, reading, listening to music and spending time with her family.
Braden Wild's picture

Braden Wild

Advancement Coordinator
B.A. in Economics, Seattle University
B.A. in International Business Administration, Seattle University
Joined TLS: 2019
bradenw@thelittleschool.org
425-827-8708
BIO
Braden Wild's picture

Braden Wild

Advancement Coordinator
B.A. in Economics, Seattle University
B.A. in International Business Administration, Seattle University
bradenw@thelittleschool.org
Prior to joining The Little School, Braden's work was in corporate finance at Starbucks Corporation and Boeing. He also founded and runs his own small nonprofit, MotMot Coffee. He believes in the importance of partnering with teachers and parents to create an engaging and personalized educational experience for all children. Away from work, Braden loves trying out new coffee shops, baking and cooking, and exploring the Pacific Northwest.
Charlotte MacCay's picture

Charlotte MacCay

Associate Teacher
B.S. in Environmental Studies, Western Washington University
Teaching Certification (K-8), Pacific Oaks College at The Little School
Joined TLS: 2019
charlottem@thelittleschool.org
425-827-8708
BIO
Charlotte MacCay's picture

Charlotte MacCay

Associate Teacher
B.S. in Environmental Studies, Western Washington University
Teaching Certification (K-8), Pacific Oaks College at The Little School
charlottem@thelittleschool.org
Charlotte came to The Little School for graduate studies in through the Pacific Oaks K-8 program in the 1980s and discovered a passion for experiential learning. After teaching middle school in a Yupik Eskimo village and preschool in Nome, Alaska, Charlotte diverted her career into environmental management while staying active in development of environmental curriculum for Alaska schools. Charlotte felt The Little School calling her home and now is immersed in the joy of teaching children once more. She can often be found outdoors with students, using nature as the basis for learning about science, the inspiration for creating art and literature and the source of endless things to count from pinecones to fiddleheads. Charlotte has a grown daughter living in Alaska and lives on a boat along the Washington Ship Canal. 
Cindy Weber's picture

Cindy Weber

Teacher
A.A. in Early Childhood Education, Bellevue College
B.S. in Interior Design, University of Maryland
Joined TLS: 2014
cindyw@thelittleschool.org
425-827-8708
BIO
Cindy Weber's picture

Cindy Weber

Teacher
A.A. in Early Childhood Education, Bellevue College
B.S. in Interior Design, University of Maryland
cindyw@thelittleschool.org
Cindy has been an early childhood teacher for 15 years. She remembers the joy, discovery, and creativity of play from her own childhood. Cindy is inspired daily by the excitement and curiosity children have about learning about the world around them. Outside of school, Cindy likes to play – biking, going on long walks, cross-country skiing in winter, reading, listening to music and spending time with family and friends.
Colleen Wes's picture

Colleen Wes

Associate Teacher
Teaching Certificate Programme, Royal Academy of Dance
Joined TLS: 2002
colleenw@thelittleschool.org
425-827-8708
BIO
Colleen Wes's picture

Colleen Wes

Associate Teacher
Teaching Certificate Programme, Royal Academy of Dance
colleenw@thelittleschool.org
Having always worked with children, Colleen holds a degree in dance education and was the director of a school of ballet in South Africa before emigrating to the United States with her husband and four children. Coming from an education system that was structured and rigid, Colleen values the contrasting progressive education program at The Little School and appreciates the school's experiential approach that promotes both curiosity and critical thinking. She appreciates that The Little School environment fosters lifelong learners capable of becoming active and inclusive participants in their communities. She has taught ballet in and around Seattle, including at the Preparatory Division of Cornish College of the Arts, for 20 years.
David Aisenberg's picture

David Aisenberg

Counseling Intern and Extended Day Teacher
B.A. in Law, Societies and Justice, University of Washington
Joined TLS: 2020
davida@thelittleschool.org
425-827-8708
BIO
David Aisenberg's picture

David Aisenberg

Counseling Intern and Extended Day Teacher
B.A. in Law, Societies and Justice, University of Washington
davida@thelittleschool.org
David has a range of clinical experience working with youth in diverse settings and has a passion for helping them actualize their full potential. In his role, David is staunchly committed to helping youth develop and strengthen their interpersonal and social-emotional skills. In addition, David thoroughly enjoys his role as an Extended Day teacher. Outside of school, David enjoys cooking and running throughout Bellevue. 
Elizabeth Banh's picture

Elizabeth Banh

Extended Day Teacher
Joined TLS: 2021
elizabethb@thelittleschool.org
425-827-8708
Izzy Moore's picture

Izzy Moore

Extended Day Teacher
Joined TLS: 2021
izzym@thelittleschool.org
425-827-8708
Jacqueline Latif's picture

Jacqueline Latif

Teacher
B.A., Rutgers University
Teacher Certificate Program, Antioch University Seattle
Joined TLS: 1997
jackiel@thelittleschool.org
425-827-8708
BIO
Jacqueline Latif's picture

Jacqueline Latif

Teacher
B.A., Rutgers University
Teacher Certificate Program, Antioch University Seattle
jackiel@thelittleschool.org
Jacqueline is from the East Coast and the child of an educator. She has two daughters and is also a grandmother. Jacqueline was recruited by TLS from the Multicultural Alliance, an organization whose mission is to promote the value of adding teachers of color to educational environments. Since her arrival at The Little School, Jacqueline has worked with ages 4 thru 8. She enjoys nature, food, travel and joyful interactions with children of all ages.
Jenny Chiang's picture

Jenny Chiang

Learning Specialist
B.A. in Early Childhood & Family Studies, University of Washington
M.Ed. in Special Education (K-12) and General Education (K-8), University of Washington
Joined TLS: 2019
jennyc@thelittleschool.org
425-827-8708
BIO
Jenny Chiang's picture

Jenny Chiang

Learning Specialist
B.A. in Early Childhood & Family Studies, University of Washington
M.Ed. in Special Education (K-12) and General Education (K-8), University of Washington
jennyc@thelittleschool.org
Jenny loves working with children to explore strengths, embrace challenges and cultivate curiosity and metacognition. She is thrilled to be part of the Little School’s vibrant and beautiful community. Jenny has taught children and adolescents with a wide range of behavioral, emotional, and cognitive conditions across various settings, including Broadview-Thomson K-8, Yellow Wood Academy and ADHD Hallowell Todaro Center. In her free time, Jenny delights in learning new things, traveling, hiking, snowboarding, walking her dog, and laughing with family and friends.
Jenny Gruenberg's picture

Jenny Gruenberg

Associate Teacher
Joined TLS: 2021
jennyg@thelittleschool.org
425-827-8708
Jessie Ryan's picture

Jessie Ryan

Environmental Education Specialist
B.S. in Fish and Wildlife Conservation, University of Connecticut
Certificate in Education for Environment and Community, IslandWood
M.Ed in Curriculum and Instruction, University of Washington
Joined TLS: 2018
jessier@thelittleschool.org
425-827-8708
BIO
Jessie Ryan's picture

Jessie Ryan

Environmental Education Specialist
B.S. in Fish and Wildlife Conservation, University of Connecticut
Certificate in Education for Environment and Community, IslandWood
M.Ed in Curriculum and Instruction, University of Washington
jessier@thelittleschool.org
Jessie has spent her career helping youth build connections to the natural world in a variety of settings, from estuary education in Connecticut and Florida to forest and garden-based education for Seattle Public Schools on Bainbridge Island. Her time as an IslandWood graduate student provided opportunities to bridge place-based environmental learning with social-emotional growth and community stewardship. Having landed her dream job at The Little School, she is able to spend her days in the garden and forest, guiding young stewards as they fall in love with nature. What a dream! When not at TLS, Jessie loves to play guitar, get messy in the garden and meander along the Olympic coastline.
Jimmy Chu's picture

Jimmy Chu

Teacher
B.A. in Sociology and Anthropology, Carleton College
M.Ed in Urban Education, UCLA Center X
Joined TLS: 2020
jimmyc@thelittleschool.org
425-827-8708
BIO
Jimmy Chu's picture

Jimmy Chu

Teacher
B.A. in Sociology and Anthropology, Carleton College
M.Ed in Urban Education, UCLA Center X
jimmyc@thelittleschool.org
Jimmy describes himself as a life-long learner, inspired by the curiosity of his students and fellow educators. He is constantly trying to look at the world in new ways and to model that mindset to his class. Jimmy is interested in identity exploration, teambuilding and social justice and uses experiential activities and storytelling as vehicles for teaching. During his free time, Jimmy likes to play ultimate Frisbee, play board games with his wife and two kids, go rock climbing and jam on the guitar. 
Jo Smith's picture

Jo Smith

Associate Teacher
Joined TLS: 2016
jos@thelittleschool.org
425-827-8708
BIO
Jo Smith's picture

Jo Smith

Associate Teacher
 jos@thelittleschool.org
Jo has always enjoyed being in the presence of children, their love curiosity and imagination. Jo has worked with children since 2013 in a wide array of settings. After stumbling across a job opportunity at TLS in 2016, she found her true passion of working in a classroom and being part of the learning journey of children. One of her favorite parts of this community is the constant support and inspiration from peers. Jo enjoys spending time with her friends and family, hiking and reading.
JoJo Bisset's picture

JoJo Bisset

Extended Day Teacher
Joined TLS: 2020
jojob@thelittleschool.org
425-827-8708
BIO
JoJo Bisset's picture

JoJo Bisset

Extended Day Teacher
 jojob@thelittleschool.org
She began working with before- and after-school care and then progressed to being a classroom assistant before motherhood enticed her away. Now with two grown daughters she stepped back into the classroom where she spent six years teaching in the Extended Day Program with Lake Washington School District before finding her way to TLS. She had heard such warm and inviting stories about The Little School from her TLS-alum husband, that she had to experience it for herself. When she’s not at school, JoJo can be found biking the streets and paths with her husband, curling up at home with a good book, scrapbooking or digging in the dirt. 
Jules Hetland's picture

Jules Hetland

Physical Education Specialist
B.A. in Psychology, University of Maryland - Munich and College Park
M.S in Environmental Science, Lesley College
Joined TLS: 2012
julesh@thelittleschool.org
425-827-8708
BIO
Jules Hetland's picture

Jules Hetland

Physical Education Specialist
B.A. in Psychology, University of Maryland - Munich and College Park
M.S in Environmental Science, Lesley College
julesh@thelittleschool.org
Jules has over 30 years of experience working with children of all ages, as a nanny, a preschool teacher and teaching assistant. As a child in the military and throughout her collegiate years, Jules traveled extensively throughout Europe and the U.S. Her master’s degree in environmental science was directly based in the experiential education model. Jules is most passionate about experiential education in which educators purposefully engage with learners in direct experience and focused reflection in order to increase knowledge, develop skills, clarify values and develop the capacity to contribute to the whole community.
Julie Irvine's picture

Julie Irvine

School Counselor
B.A. in Sociology and Education, Whitman College
M.A.T., University of Puget Sound
M.S.W., Seattle University
Joined TLS: 2018
juliei@thelittleschool.org
425-827-8708
BIO
Julie Irvine's picture

Julie Irvine

School Counselor
B.A. in Sociology and Education, Whitman College
M.A.T., University of Puget Sound
M.S.W., Seattle University
juliei@thelittleschool.org
Julie has a range of experiences working with children - as a teacher, a reading specialist and a mental health counselor - all of which enhance her work as the counselor at The Little School. Julie is passionate about cultivating social and emotional skills, both in the classroom and on the climber. Outside of school, Julie enjoys running, backpacking, eating chocolate and playing with her dog.
Julie Kalmus's picture

Julie Kalmus

Head of School
B.A. in Psychology and Education, Vassar College
M.Ed. in Educational Leadership, Columbia University
Joined TLS: 2019
juliek@thelittleschool.org
425-827-4609 ext. 110
BIO
Julie Kalmus's picture

Julie Kalmus

Head of School
B.A. in Psychology and Education, Vassar College
M.Ed. in Educational Leadership, Columbia University
juliek@thelittleschool.org
Julie is the Head of School at The Little School and is honored to steward the school’s culture of curiosity and collaboration. She is a passionate educator, leader and designer committed to fostering excellence. With a deep commitment to innovative progressive education, Julie has worked in independent schools and higher education for over 25 years. She has led the design and launch of multiple initiatives, including an international school in Mumbai and a graduate school of education in Seattle. Being nestled in the forest is the perfect setting for Julie. Throughout the year, she and her family spend time in the outdoors hiking, skiing and relishing in nature.
Kary Kublin's picture

Kary Kublin

Director of Learning & Support
B.S. in Speech Language Pathology, Florida State University
M.S. in Speech Language Pathology, Florida State University
Ph.D. in Speech Language Pathology, Florida State University
Joined TLS: 2017
karyk@thelittleschool.org
425-827-4609 ext. 107
BIO
Kary Kublin's picture

Kary Kublin

Director of Learning & Support
B.S. in Speech Language Pathology, Florida State University
M.S. in Speech Language Pathology, Florida State University
Ph.D. in Speech Language Pathology, Florida State University
karyk@thelittleschool.org
Kary came to Washington from North Florida, where she worked as the academic director in an independent school for 13 years. Her other professional roles include speech-language therapist, autism consultant, grant writer, community program developer and family literacy specialist in Florida, Ontario (Canada) and North Carolina. While completing her doctoral program, Kary was awarded a Fulbright grant to study at the University of Otago in Dunedin, New Zealand. She has also served as a volunteer for parent programs in the West Indies and Bangalore, India. Since making the Pacific Northwest her home, Kary enjoys exploring the Washington coast and the San Juan Islands with her family. 
Katie Warden's picture

Katie Warden

Teacher
B.A. in English and Women's Studies, Seattle University
M.A. in Teaching - Highly Qualified in Elementary Education, Seattle Pacific University
Joined TLS: 2012
katiew@thelittleschool.org
425-827-8708
BIO
Katie Warden's picture

Katie Warden

Teacher
B.A. in English and Women's Studies, Seattle University
M.A. in Teaching - Highly Qualified in Elementary Education, Seattle Pacific University
katiew@thelittleschool.org
Katie has been working in education since 2006, serving at different Seattle-area independent schools and summer camps, as well as teaching English in South Korea. Discovering progressive education compelled her to pursue a master’s degree in teaching and become a classroom teacher. Katie is passionate about child-centered, differentiated education with a social justice mission. Outside of school, Katie loves cooking – especially perfecting the best possible homemade pizza – reading, swimming and practicing yoga.
Keiko Andrews's picture

Keiko Andrews

Associate Teacher
Joined TLS: 2017
keikoa@thelittleschool.org
425-827-8708
BIO
Keiko Andrews's picture

Keiko Andrews

Associate Teacher
 keikoa@thelittleschool.org
Keiko has always enjoyed playing soccer. This led her to work with a child development program that used soccer as the tool in both a lead and management position. She realized the best place to continue that development work was in the classroom. Keiko has a passion for working with young children and enjoys helping them to build confidence while also fostering their natural curiosity and creativity. She is happy to have found her place here at TLS. She also enjoys baking, hiking, getting outdoors and spending time with her expanding family and close friends.
Kelsey Thomas's picture

Kelsey Thomas

Librarian
B.A. in Comparative Literature from Smith College
M.S. in Library Information Sciences from Pratt Institute
Joined TLS: 2019
kelseyt@thelittleschool.org
425-827-8708
BIO
Kelsey Thomas's picture

Kelsey Thomas

Librarian
B.A. in Comparative Literature from Smith College
M.S. in Library Information Sciences from Pratt Institute
kelseyt@thelittleschool.org
Kelsey has worked as a librarian in independent schools since 2016 and is delighted to be working at The Little School. She believes that the community around you has the power to hold you and grow you positively and strives to foster that growth in her students. Her vision for the library is as a learning space to explore story and its place in our lives and grapple with information and its impacts in our world. While reading has a huge place in her life, when she’s not tucked behind a book she can be found camping, hiking, swimming or training her dog, Cider. After years in Brooklyn and Massachusetts she has returned to her native West Coast where she can appreciate our beautiful coasts, mountains and forests.
Ken Wojciechowski's picture

Ken Wojciechowski

Director of Facilities
Joined TLS: 1993
kenw@thelittleschool.org
425-827-4609 ext. 114
BIO
Ken Wojciechowski's picture

Ken Wojciechowski

Director of Facilities
 kenw@thelittleschool.org
Ken became the first Facilities Manager for the school back in 1993 after the live-on-site caretaker decided to move his mobile home off site. Ken enjoys the variety of work that the school’s amazing campus offers. He has an appreciation of The Little School’s progressive model of education, engaging with students on campus and working with some great colleagues. Away from work, Ken enjoys traveling, short jaunts to Vashon Island where he has family and barbecuing year round, and he is passionate about hitting the local golf courses whenever he can.
Kingston Govati's picture

Kingston Govati

Director of Finance & Operations
Joined TLS: 2021
kingstong@thelittleschool.org
425-827-8708
Kristin Hornell's picture

Kristin Hornell

Teacher
B.A. in English, Washington University in St. Louis
M.A.T. in Early Childhood Education, Webster University
Joined TLS: 2014
kristinh@thelittleschool.org
425-827-8708
BIO
Kristin Hornell's picture

Kristin Hornell

Teacher
B.A. in English, Washington University in St. Louis
M.A.T. in Early Childhood Education, Webster University
kristinh@thelittleschool.org
Kristin has more than 15 years of experience as an early childhood teacher, and she greatly appreciates teaching at The Little School, a place where children and families are deeply respected and learning is joyful and inspiring. Kristin finds that the most rewarding aspect of teaching is sharing in the children’s natural curiosity and excitement about the world around us. When not at TLS, Kristin enjoys traveling, reading, hiking and exploring the beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
Maddie Rawding's picture

Maddie Rawding

Associate Teacher
B.A. in Public Policy Analysis and Economics, Pitzer College
2017-2018 Princeton in Asia Fellow
Joined TLS: 2021
maddier@thelittleschool.org
425-827-8708
BIO
Maddie Rawding's picture

Maddie Rawding

Associate Teacher
B.A. in Public Policy Analysis and Economics, Pitzer College
2017-2018 Princeton in Asia Fellow
maddier@thelittleschool.org
As an elementary student growing up abroad, Maddie loved learning in a global setting. She is thrilled to be a part of The Little School’s international community. Maddie has worked with students of all ages throughout the Seattle region. She believes in student’s inherent humanity, curiosity and capability. When not in the classroom, Maddie enjoys biking, tending to her P-patch and learning new ways to create.
Mandy Dillon's picture

Mandy Dillon

Teacher
B.S. in Early Childhood Education, Nyack College
Graduate Course Work, Bank Street College of Education
Joined TLS: 2019
mandyd@thelittleschool.org
425-827-8708
BIO
Mandy Dillon's picture

Mandy Dillon

Teacher
B.S. in Early Childhood Education, Nyack College
Graduate Course Work, Bank Street College of Education
mandyd@thelittleschool.org
Mandy has worked with children in a variety of settings throughout her career, in both public and independent schools. Before joining The Little School, her most recent position was as a preschool teacher at an art- and nature-based preschool in Brooklyn, NY. She also took part in a research study conducted by Bank Street College of Education – where she simultaneously completed some graduate coursework – looking into the impact of math enrichment in early childhood settings. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, traveling, cooking, reading and spending time with her husband, newborn daughter and two cats. 
Max Honch's picture

Max Honch

Teacher
B.A. in History and Religious Studies, University of Puget Sound
M.Ed., University of Washington
Certificate Education for Environment and Community, IslandWood
Joined TLS: 2020
maxh@thelittleschool.org
425-827-8708
BIO
Max Honch's picture

Max Honch

Teacher
B.A. in History and Religious Studies, University of Puget Sound
M.Ed., University of Washington
Certificate Education for Environment and Community, IslandWood
maxh@thelittleschool.org
Max began his career in education teaching English in Thailand for several years, and then spent six years as an environmental educator. He found The Little School as a place to get back into a classroom setting that still shared a value of keeping learning tied closely to the environment. Max is excited to continue exploring the values of progressive education and how social justice can be enacted in the classroom. Outside of school, Max makes his friends and family try his pickling and fermentation experiments, goes out backpacking and binges podcasts. 
Mem Merrin's picture

Mem Merrin

Teacher
B.A. in Sociology, Clark University
Certificate in Early Childhood Education, Clark University
M.S. in Environmental Studies, Antioch New England Graduate School
Joined TLS: 2010
memm@thelittleschool.org
425-827-8708
BIO
Mem Merrin's picture

Mem Merrin

Teacher
B.A. in Sociology, Clark University
Certificate in Early Childhood Education, Clark University
M.S. in Environmental Studies, Antioch New England Graduate School
memm@thelittleschool.org
Mem has been teaching for more than 20 years, focusing on early childhood and environmental education during most of her career. Originally from New England, she and her two sons have embraced the Pacific Northwest as home for more than ten years. Mem has been both a parent and a teacher at The Little School and feels this is a wonderful place for kids to be themselves. Along with the progressive philosophy of the school, she appreciates the wooded campus and the overarching lean towards outdoor experiences. Mem has a love for all living creatures, but especially frogs, dogs and bears. When she is not teaching, Mem spends time with her family and friends, reading, taking long walks, exploring, traveling and enjoying different types of food.
Michele Mendrick's picture

Michele Mendrick

Manager of Office Communications & Operations
B.A. in Early Childhood Education, The State University of New York
M.Ed., University of Washington
Joined TLS: 2010
michelem@thelittleschool.org
425-827-8708
BIO
Michele Mendrick's picture

Michele Mendrick

Manager of Office Communications & Operations
B.A. in Early Childhood Education, The State University of New York
M.Ed., University of Washington
michelem@thelittleschool.org
Finding her inspiration during her own elementary school years, Michele has expressed a passion for working with children for most of her life. Growing up in upstate New York, she had woods to roam, a creek to investigate and an open field for play. These valuable experiences influence her deep appreciation for The Little School and her role within the administrative team. When away from TLS, Michele continues to enjoy outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, skiing, biking and traveling with her family.  
Mike Murphy's picture

Mike Murphy

Classroom Continuity Liaison
A.A., Ft. Steilacoom Community College
Social Work Course Work, Western Washington University
Joined TLS: 2005
mikem@thelittleschool.org
425-827-8708
BIO
Mike Murphy's picture

Mike Murphy

Classroom Continuity Liaison
A.A., Ft. Steilacoom Community College
Social Work Course Work, Western Washington University
mikem@thelittleschool.org
Mike passionately facilitates social justice and equity learning at TLS, as well as with Eastside Race and Leadership Coalition, a nonprofit organization dedicated to addressing racism and xenophobia in East King County communities. He is also active in homeless and low-income outreach. When he’s not following these passions, you’ll likely find him at either Bellevue or Seattle Pacific Table Tennis clubs, both in Bellevue.
Morgan Padgett's picture

Morgan Padgett

Teacher
B.A. Psychology, Lewis & Clark College
B.A. Art History, Lewis & Clark College
M.Ed. Education, Concordia University
Joined TLS: 2021
morganp@thelittleschool.org
425-827-8708
BIO
Morgan Padgett's picture

Morgan Padgett

Teacher
B.A. Psychology, Lewis & Clark College
B.A. Art History, Lewis & Clark College
M.Ed. Education, Concordia University
morganp@thelittleschool.org
For more than a decade, Morgan has taught in several independent schools throughout the Pacific Northwest. With experience working with children in a wide range of multi-age classrooms, Morgan is passionate about empowering children to express themselves authentically and integrating the arts and natural world into each day's activities. Additionally, Morgan sees great value in storytelling and works to nurture children's individual voices as storytellers and writers. Outside of work, Morgan enjoys scrambling peaks in the mountains, skiing, traveling and spending quiet time in her backyard art studio. 
Nick Conway's picture

Nick Conway

Technology Manager
Joined TLS: 2021
nickc@thelittleschool.org
425-827-8708
PJ Rawlings's picture

PJ Rawlings

Extended Day Teacher
A.A., Bellevue College
B.A. in Psychology, Eastern Washington University
Joined TLS: 2017
pjr@thelittleschool.org
425-827-8708
BIO
PJ Rawlings's picture

PJ Rawlings

Extended Day Teacher
A.A., Bellevue College
B.A. in Psychology, Eastern Washington University
pjr@thelittleschool.org
PJ has worked in multiple after school and extended day programs, including the Redmond/Sammamish branch of the Boys' and Girls' Club. He is honored to have the ability to positively impact kids and make a difference in their lives and our community. PJ likes to serve as his church and spend time with his friends.
Ray Castillo Jr.'s picture

Ray Castillo Jr.

Director of After School Programs
Joined TLS: 2019
rayc@thelittleschool.org
425-827-4609 ext. 119 or 425-229-3801
Regan Wensnahan's picture

Regan Wensnahan

Director of Enrollment Management
B.A., Swarthmore College
M.A., Pacific Oaks College
Joined TLS: 2017
reganw@thelittleschool.org
425-827-4609 ext. 102
BIO
Regan Wensnahan's picture

Regan Wensnahan

Director of Enrollment Management
B.A., Swarthmore College
M.A., Pacific Oaks College
reganw@thelittleschool.org
Regan first came to The Little School as part of her teacher training through the Pacific Oaks Credentialing program. As a child she attended schools that focused on the development of the whole child, and she has always been associated with schools that teach using experiential and integrated strategies. Initially, she has worked as a teacher of preschool through fifth grade classrooms in gifted, parent cooperative and independent schools. More recently, her focus shifted to supporting teacher professional development. Having written her master’s thesis on how parents choose a school, she has assisted many families through the school search process. Away from TLS she enjoys gardening, kayaking and cooking with her family and friends.
Sarah Jamal's picture

Sarah Jamal

Teacher
A.A. in Education, College of DuPage
B.A. in Elementary Education, University of Michigan – Ann Arbor
Joined TLS: 2021
sarahj@thelittleschool.org
425-827-8708
BIO
Sarah Jamal's picture

Sarah Jamal

Teacher
A.A. in Education, College of DuPage
B.A. in Elementary Education, University of Michigan – Ann Arbor
sarahj@thelittleschool.org
Before The Little School, Sarah was an educator at the Colegio Americano de Guatemala. As a teacher, Sarah enjoys participating in the learning process through which children’s natural curiosity, imagination and play are developed. Sarah’s goals as an educator are to create a safe, inclusive and fun classroom for her students while simultaneously providing differentiated instruction to meet the needs of each student. Sarah chose to become part of The Little School community in part because of the importance placed on diversity, partnership and communication. In her free time, Sarah enjoys cooking, hiking, exploring and spending time with her family and friends.
Sean Dolgin's picture

Sean Dolgin

Teacher
Joined TLS: 2021
seand@thelittleschool.org
425-827-8708
Sean Vacca's picture

Sean Vacca

Art Specialist
B.F.A. in Art Education with a specialization in Painting, Western Michigan University
M.A. in Organization Management with a specialization in Media Management, Ashford University
Joined TLS: 2020
seanv@thelittleschool.org
425-827-8708
BIO
Sean Vacca's picture

Sean Vacca

Art Specialist
B.F.A. in Art Education with a specialization in Painting, Western Michigan University
M.A. in Organization Management with a specialization in Media Management, Ashford University
seanv@thelittleschool.org
Sean is a Midwestern transplant, having taught elementary and middle school art in both Detroit, MI and Chicago, IL. In Sean's art room, students take center stage in the curriculum. Projects are designed to teach art history and technique but give students the opportunity to apply their interests and experiences to them. For his own art, Sean likes to use ink and watercolor. Outside of the art classroom, Sean loves to play sports like hockey, go on hikes and play music.
Sierra Reid's picture

Sierra Reid

Associate Teacher
B.A. in Costume Design and Construction, Bennington College
Certificate in Project Management, University of Washington
Joined TLS: 2021
sierrar@thelittleschool.org
425-827-8708
BIO
Sierra Reid's picture

Sierra Reid

Associate Teacher
B.A. in Costume Design and Construction, Bennington College
Certificate in Project Management, University of Washington
sierrar@thelittleschool.org
Sierra has worked with children in a variety of settings. Whether it be coaching gymnastics or working backstage, she loves finding opportunities to be creative and embrace students' natural curiosity and ideas. Sierra grew up in the Pacific Northwest and previously spent time making costumes professionally for local theatre in the Seattle area. She believes in The Little School’s commitment to respecting nature and the importance of spending time in the natural world. Outside of school she spends time roller skating, working on a never-ending list of projects and taking care of her cats.
Sophia Egler's picture

Sophia Egler

Associate Teacher
Early Childhood Education Course Work, Bellevue College
B.A. in English Literature, University of Washington
Joined TLS: 2018
sophiae@thelittleschool.org
425-827-8708
BIO
Sophia Egler's picture

Sophia Egler

Associate Teacher
Early Childhood Education Course Work, Bellevue College
B.A. in English Literature, University of Washington
sophiae@thelittleschool.org
Sophia has worked with young children in a variety of educational settings, and she believes strongly in fostering a sense of wonder and curiosity in children as they discover and construct meaning from their experiences and ideas. She sees herself as a co-learner and guide for children as they learn to become independent, responsible members of their community. Sophia feels at home in The Little School community. She loves sharing books and stories with children, as well as exploring various ways of expressing oneself through different forms of art. Outside of work, Sophia loves finding new places to adventure with her tiny dogs, watching hockey and taking time to create.
Stephen Harrison's picture

Stephen Harrison

Technology Integration & Innovation Specialist
B.S. in Environmental Resource Management, Pennsylvania State University
M.Ed. in Education Media Design, Full Sail University
Joined TLS: 2020
stephenh@thelittleschool.org
425-827-8708
BIO
Stephen Harrison's picture

Stephen Harrison

Technology Integration & Innovation Specialist
B.S. in Environmental Resource Management, Pennsylvania State University
M.Ed. in Education Media Design, Full Sail University
stephenh@thelittleschool.org
Stephen is a designer, builder and life-long learner who enjoys sharing his love of woodworking, graphic design and tinkering with kids and adults alike. Inspiring curiosity is at the core of his approach to teaching. Stephen has been a teacher and administrator in Seattle area independent schools for over twenty years. Prior to that he taught environmental education in California and Vermont. Stephen also has a deep passion for building, playing and recording electric guitars.
Taira McKinney's picture

Taira McKinney

Teacher
A.A. in Early Childhood Development, Santa Rosa Junior College
B.A. in Liberal Studies Emphasis in Education, San Francisco State University
Joined TLS: 2019
tairam@thelittleschool.org
425-827-8708
BIO
Taira McKinney's picture

Taira McKinney

Teacher
A.A. in Early Childhood Development, Santa Rosa Junior College
B.A. in Liberal Studies Emphasis in Education, San Francisco State University
tairam@thelittleschool.org
Taira is a creative and enthusiastic educator with over 14 years of experience working with children of various ages and backgrounds. She believes her role as an educator is to engage children in the learning process and develop lifelong learners. Taira has a passion for nature education and developing inquiry-based curriculum. Valuing process over product, Taira helps children develop a strong foundation on which to build a lifetime of knowledge. She loves being part of children’s growth and development and strives to make their environment safe, stable and nurturing. When not at school, Taira can be found enjoying all the beautiful Pacific Northwest has to offer, including rock climbing, hiking, mountain biking and skiing.
Tiana Johnson's picture

Tiana Johnson

Bookkeeper & Administrative Assistant
Joined TLS: 2003
tianaj@thelittleschool.org
425-827-4609 ext. 101
BIO
Tiana Johnson's picture

Tiana Johnson

Bookkeeper & Administrative Assistant
 tianaj@thelittleschool.org
Working at The Little School, Tiana has come to appreciate and thrive on the sense of wonder and excitement at the discoveries children make here every day. When not in her office at The Little School, Tiana enjoys spending time with her family, reading, gardening and DIY home projects.

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