Our Bothell Staff
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Leah G.
I have a degree in Elementary Education from Western Washington University. After graduating, I substituted for a year across many subjects and grades, which made me realize Kindergarten was the perfect spot for me! I then taught Kindergarten for 5 years at a nearby school. I took some time off to be home with my daughter, and am now excited to be back in the classroom! My family and I love to travel. My two year old has already visited 5 countries! I also like to read and spend time outside.
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Nataliya O.
I have two children and now my first grandbaby! When first becoming a teacher in 1990 I knew I found my life’s passion. I’ve taught kids of all ages including high school. I love teaching and was honored to have been selected as Teacher of the Year several times in Ukraine. I also lead language classes at a local church.
In my spare time I enjoy reading, researching, knitting and gardening.
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Jenelle M.
I was born and raised in Kirkland, WA. I worked in child care for nine years before making the move to medical assisting, but my passion for early childhood education brought me back here, where I couldn't be happier! On my time off I enjoy being outdoors hiking, frisbee golfing, camping, adventuring no matter if its raining, snowing or sunshine!
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Kami W.
I grew up in Washington State and have four wonderful children. I have always had a passion for working with children, first as a nanny then as a lead teacher for over ten years. My goal as a teacher is to help children explore and discover the world around them and how they can be a part of it. I love watching the children’s reactions when they discover something new. I am excited to get to know all your children!
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Padma S.
I am originally from India. I moved to the US with my husband and two daughters in 2000 and have been living in Washington for the past decade. I completed my Bachelor's degree in Science and Bachelors degree in Education in India. Prior to joining Birch Tree Academy, I worked at Northern Lights Montessori School for ten years. Outside of work, I enjoy hiking and exploring new trails on the weekend as the weather permits. I also enjoy watching tv shows and I am always on the lookout for a good suspense thriller tv show. I look forward to working with and getting to know everyone at Birch Tree Academy.
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Arely G.
I was born in Colorado but grew up in Mexico, returning to the USA at the age of 14. I work in childcare, specializing in caring for children aged 2-5. My passion lies in creating a safe, nurturing environment where children can thrive and feel secure. I’m excited to be part of Birch Tree Academy and contribute to its positive and supportive community!
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Sveta T.
Hello, my name is Svetlana. My family and I moved in US in 2015 from Russia. I have two wonderful sons. I have always had a position for working with children, first as a nanny, then as a teacher assistant and toddler teacher. I like to be a teacher because I love to help children explore and discover the world around them. I enjoy watching children learn and grow!
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Anna M.
My name is Anna and I moved to the United States 4 years ago I moved from Russia. Before moving, I have worked as a nanny with children of different ages. In the states, my first job was teaching at a local preschool where I worked for 3.5 years. It's time for changes and moving forward and here I finally here at Birch Tree! I am extremely happy to be part of the team and excited to meet the rest of the community!
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Kristina B.
Hi, my name is Kristina. I’m 27 years old and originally from Ukraine. Back home, I worked at a Children’s History Museum, where I discovered my passion for working with kids—I loved seeing their smiles as they explored and learned. I’m also a proud mom to my 4-year-old son, Davyd. In our free time, we enjoy playing sports, staying active, and spending time outdoors. I’m so excited to be part of the Birch Tree team and look forward to getting to know all the wonderful kids and families!
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Caitlin N.
Hello! My name is Caitlin and I am very passionate about education and the environment! I am originally from the Bay Area in California and moved to Seattle in 2020. I have absolutely adored my previous experiences working with kids and I am so psyched to work in a school again! I am particularly passionate about creating a space where kids have access to environmental education wherever they are and whatever their background! I also love cats, crochet, roller skating, art, and nature!
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Melissa V.
Hello, my name is Melissa. I was born in Washington but spent much of my childhood and adolescence in Mexico. I returned a few years ago and completed my high school education here. Throughout my life, I have always been surrounded by younger children, and when I came back, I focused on that passion. I have worked as a nanny and gained valuable experience with young children. It's something I’m truly passionate about—I love growing alongside them and supporting their development.
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Iuliia M.
I am a creative person. Active, conscientious, balanced, sociable, eager to learn new things, kind, and free of bad habits. I am an accountant by education, have worked as an engineer in large companies, but my passion has always been in teaching people, providing them with a healthy body through physical exercise and emotional calmness.
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Olena O.
Hello everyone! My name is Olena, I was born and raised in Ukraine. From early childhood I was surrounded by children, and I always enjoyed spending time with them. At first, I helped look after the neighboring children, and later I took an active part in raising my three nephews. Over time, I realized that working with children is my calling, so I graduated from the pedagogical university. Being in a new country, I am happy to discover for myself the experience of working with children in a different cultural environment. I believe that this is a great opportunity to get my knowledge in practice, as well as learn something new. I am inspired by the opportunity to contribute to the upbringing of children, help them grow and reveal their potential.
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Jane I.
I was born and raised in Russia. I attended Voronezh State Pedagogical University and majored in elementary education. I graduated in 2010 and worked as a public school teacher until 2013.
In 2013 I moved to the United States and settled in Kansas City, Kansas. I got married and became a proud mom of 2 beautiful girls. The birth of my daughter Emma was the turning point of my life. I decided that it was in her interest that I become a stay-at-home mother before embarking on my teaching career. In 2018 my second daughter Mila was born. Same year my husband got a new job and my family moved to the state of Washington. Here I had my third daughter Vera and learned about such a great place for kids as Birch Tree Academy. This lit the flame of desire to return to my teaching career.
My goal is to be the person kids can trust, the person who will always do whatever it takes to ensure their success.
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Khrystyna P.
I was born in Ukraine. I have three children. I graduated from Bukovyna State University in 2013 and Ivano-Frankivsk State University of Oil and Gas in 2014. I love teaching and I love working with children. In my spare time I enjoy reading, researching, knitting and gardening.
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Vika V.
I was born and raised in Ukraine. In 2009, I came to the United States and got married to my loving husband. We have two beautiful children and a Golden Labrador to keep us busy. I started off as an Engineer in Ukraine, but my true passion is working with children. In my free time, I enjoy gardening, traveling, and spending time with my family. I am excited to be here at Birch Tree!
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Oksana O.
Hello, I’m Oksana, & I’m from Ukraine. I got my education & graduated from a Pedagogical University to work with children. In Ukraine, I taught second grade children and loved it. In my free time, I love to travel, read and draw. I am thrilled to work for the wonderful team at Birch Tree Academy.
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Valerija G.
Hi, my name is Valerija, I was born in Lithuania, but have been living in America for 10 years, I really enjoy this country and the people. They are very sincere, friendly, and know how to communicate. I love children, I have five grandchildren that I helped my daughter raise. I really like working in the kitchen cooking for children, and making delicious, healthy food. The kids repay us with a hearty smile. I thank them for that.
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Bohdana K.
My name is Bohdana, but you can call me Dana. I was born and raised in a large family—I have five brothers and seven sisters! I have a passion for working with children and especially enjoy creative activities like needlework. I also love exploring new places and cultures, which is what brought me to Birch Tree Academy.
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Maryna D.
My name is Maryna, and I was born and raised in Ukraine in a large family. Working with children has always been an important part of my life. I volunteered at children's camps in Ukraine before moving to the United States, where I began my professional career in early childhood education.
I have over seven years of experience working with children and am passionate about creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment where every child can learn, grow, and thrive. I enjoy building positive relationships with children and their families and supporting each child's unique development.
In my free time, I enjoy spending time outdoors, exploring nature, and going hiking. I believe that curiosity, creativity, and a connection with nature are important parts of a child's development.
I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of each child's learning journey and look forward to helping them build confidence, curiosity, and a love of learning.