Teachers make a difference to our program. Our teachers offer their own unique creative touches to their classrooms and our environments. They help plan the art program, have a generous budget for educational and art supplies and are committed to keeping our program innovative. They are all certified with the State of Oregon, have passed a criminal background check and are required to hold a Food Handler's, First Aid and CPR cards at our company. We require a professional dress code with a uniform so you can easily identify a member of our staff at any time.

Every Quarter we like to feature Teachers Who Inspire Us, from each of the schools. Click button above to view their stories.

Teachers who make a difference are:

Brittany began her career with Creative Minds Learning Center in 2007 as a Pre-K Teacher. She left to obtain her Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education at Oregon State University and returned to CMLC as the Director of our Woodstock campus. Brittany quickly showed her strengths as a leader and was promoted as our Regional Director for all Creative Minds Learning Center campuses. She maintains support to each school's Site Director, children and families, ensuring a quality consistent program. Brittany is proud to work for CMLC because of its reputable academic program, collaborative work environment, and commitment to families. Brittany's teaching philosophy is to build personal relationships with each child and encourage independence in their learning. "I love coming to work! This community is so special to me, as if it were my second family!" Brittany has a passion for the development of children, education, and community relationships.

Kayla is our Gateway School's Site Director. She chose CMLC for several reasons; She loves the positive and fun environment, the art program, the specialty classes and the healthy menu options. She likes how the curriculum focuses with hands on learning. She likes working with kids because of how honest they are and how eager they are to learn. "It's the simple things that amaze them" says Kayla. "They are always saying silly things. I love watching them get new concepts and it is amazing the growth that you see in such a short amount of time." Kayla has many experiences working with kids throughout high school and college. Kayla graduated with a degree in early childhood and elementary education. Kayla hopes to continue to grow in her teaching with CMLC and the children.

Meredith is our Sellwood School's Director. She started her career with Creative Minds as the Gateway school's Pre-Kindergarten Teacher, quickly proving her strengths moving into the Assistant Director position. She joined Creative Minds because of the school's educational philosophy. She believes that CMLC provides a positive learning environment that is nurturing and creative, laying a strong foundation for our children. Meredith loves working with children because she finds that it's refreshing and rejuvenating! "I am in awe of the children's imagination and creativity. I love teaching children because I believe that success and acceptance empower children and gives them tools for future successes and the ability and desire to care for others." Meredith graduated form Ithaca College in May 2008, receiving a B.A. in sociology with a concentration in gender studies.

Stephanie is our Westmoreland School's Site Director and has been with the Creative Minds since December 2009 and has loved the opportunity to build positive relationship with the staff, families, and the community as the Assistant Director of our Westmoreland Campus. Stephanie has previously worked and volunteered in preschools, elementary schools, and summer camps and could not imagine having a career that does not involve teaching and advocating for young people. Drawn to CMLC because of its emphasis on creativity, nutrition, and community. Her purpose and passion in life is to support the happy and healthy development of children into bright, kind individuals. In addition to her years of professional experience working with children, she has a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from Flagler College in St. Augustine, Florida. A native Floridian, Stephanie has recently put down roots here in Portland and aims to have a long and meaningful career with Creative Minds Learning Center.

Hi! I'm Kim, the Lead Teacher in the Rembrandt Preschool at the Westmoreland location. I have been working with children for twelve years. I love working with both the children and their families. Currently, I hold an Associates Degree in Child Development and hope to further my education. I have been married to my husband David for fifteen years and we have two children.

April is our Woodstock School's Site Director and had began her career with Creative Minds as a Toddler Teacher. She has six years prior experience in child care, as a Teacher for toddler and preschool age children. April studied Early Childhood Development and Psychology at Boise State University. She loves working with children and can't see herself doing anything else. She loves working for CMLC because of the great kids, positive work environment, and excellent staff teamwork!

I'm Sarah, Woodstock School's Assistant Director and Lead Toddler Teacher. She has been part of the team at Creative Minds since October 2009. I have so much fun working with all the wonderful children on a daily basis. I have enjoyed all the laughter and excitement that the children bring to my life. In June of 2009, I graduated from the University of Oregon with a Bachelor's degree in History. In a few years, I plan on going back to school to receive a Master's degree in Education.

Anna is our Broadway School's Director. "I wanted to work at a school where my daughter can attend and which strives to be green. I believe we must all do what we can to leave the earth a healthier and better place. My favorite thing about working with children is watching them learn a new concept and then apply it in their work and play. I received my Bachelors degree in Education from the University of Idaho. Later I taught in Idaho public schools, teaching 6th graders and later kindergarten. I have been with Creative Minds Learning Center since Spring of 2009. My teaching philosophy is to create a loving environment in which children can learn and grow academically, socially and emotionally."

Hi, I'm Teacher Jillian and I am the Substitute Director at the Broadway School. I have been apart of the CMLC team since June 2010, and enjoy my time with the wonderful children, families and staff. I have my Bachelorʼs degree in Education and a minor in Special Education, but I realized I wanted to focus my career on young children after working as a Nanny for two wonderful boys. I have a passion for art, reading and guiding childrenʼs learning through play, so I am thrilled to have the opportunity to combine these in my classroom here at CMLC!

Teacher  Lydia  is our Head Toddler Teacher of the Gateway school and has been with Creative Minds since 2004. She is devoted and offers a genuine love for the community of toddler and is committed to their exploration of new concepts.

Teacher Alicia is our Toddler Teacher at our Broadway campus. "I work here because of the marked difference in what CMLC is able to offer the kids. I love seeing them grow! It's amazing, I was their teacher when they were two and then they go off to kindergarten. To know, I helped get them there is the big payoff. I'm a life long resident of Oregon. I went to high school in Sandy where I took an ECE class and that's where I discovered that I wanted to work with kids. I've been with CMLC since 2007. My teaching philosophy is very laid back and fun! I feel that kids learn best while they're having fun. So I like to incorporate learning into games, songs and storybooks."

Teacher Tara is our Assistant Director and Lead Pre-K Teacher at our Westmoreland campus. She just completed her degree in Printmaking with a minor in Early Childhood Education at PSU. She is planning on returning to get her Master's Degree in Elementary Education while continuing to work at Creative Minds. "I love working at CMLC; teaching is so much fun and I adore all of my amazing students."

Danielle is our Sellwood School's Lead Infant Teacher. She started her career with Creative Minds at the Gateway Campus in 2005. She helped unroll the Infant Program at our Westmoreland school in 2010 getting the nickname "the Baby Whisper". She holds an associate's degree in Early Childhood Education and continues taking courses in ECE to bring an experience to our schools that is well recognized. She is well rounded as having taught all ages from infant through school age children, although her favorite age group is the Infants. She fills her classroom with creativity, organization and fun. One of her favorite activities to do with the babies is dance during baby circle time. "Seeing the babies laugh and smile along with grooving to the music is such a joy. CMLC is a wonderful community filled with awesome teachers and amazing children. I'm glad to be apart of something so fantastic!"

I'm Marlo and I am a Teacher in the Older Infant Room at the West Moreland location! I love the curriculum and teaching methods at CMLC. I also enjoy the fun positive atmosphere and the bond between not only the children and the parents, but with the staff as well. It's like a home away from home for me. I love coming to work each morning at CMLC. In high school I took child psychology and the pre-school teaching program 7 times in my 4 years and have been working in childcare for 4 years. Before coming to CMLC I worked as a teacher in Wobbler (10 months - 16 months) room and in Two's room. I also have experience with ages 3 months - 10 years. I've always loved working with children of all ages and have known since I was 4 years old it was my passion and something I wanted to do once I was done with school.

My name is Ciara, I am a Teacher Aid at Creative Minds Learning Center, located in Westmoreland. I have had much experience with children, this includes "at home" child care for five years from new borns to pre-k and beyond. I currently teach sunday school for our kiddos at my home church on sundays ranging from 1-5 years. I will be graduating high school within the next few months and plan on staying with Creative Minds for some time. There are many great things about Creative Minds, however I would have to say one of my favorite things to do here is really, interacting with the kids. Children bring me such joy and I love working with the different ages, observing and participating in the different developmental levels is always fun and there is never a dull moment. It is so intriguing at how different each age is and how much they are able to learn from their environment and those around them, but at the same time i believe that we as teachers can learn so much from them also. I have a passion and love for children, I always have and I always will, I am looking forward to learning more and making lots of new little friends!

Teacher Emily is so happy being a Younger Infant Teacher at the Westmoreland CMLC. She began teaching children eight years ago at Allegro Dance Studio as a teaching assistant. From there she taught at T.R.Y.P.S in Columbia, Missouri for three years and then returned to Portland Allegro Dance Studio as a teacher. She has also taught at Ackerman Middle School and Alliance Charter Academy. Emily's warm brightens the atmosphere at Westmoreland and helps her bond and connect with all of her little students.

Teacher Heather has been working at Creative Minds since June of 2010. She loves working with children and the many rewards it brings. She has been working with children since 2001 and says, "I feel so lucky to be a part of Creative Minds Learning Center. I really enjoy teaching in the Aspen Class because of the age group. Two to three year-olds are all about exploring our world around us, and it is so much fun to watch and be involved in."

Teacher Jessie has been with Creative Minds since January of 2010. "There is no greater job out there than what I get to be apart of at CMLC. It has been something I have loved since I was a little girl watching my mom teach. Everyday I look forward to the small celebrations with our little ones like using more words, learning their ABCs and colors, etc. Each day is new and exciting."

Hello! I'm Teacher Stephanie and I have been teaching at CMLC since September 2009. I am currently the PM Lead Pre-K Teacher of the Toddler Class at the Woodstock Campus. I feel very privileged to teach here and watch these children grow, learn, and work with such great friends and families! I married my best friend, Christopher in September 2008 and we bought our first home in Sandy, OR this last year. We look forward to continuing to be a part to be a part of your lives in the future!

Hi, I'm Marissa, and I'm one of the Teachers in the Older Infant Classroom at the Westmoreland campus for CMLC. Growing up with educators for parents, I always knew working with children was what I wanted to do with my life. I've been working with children between the ages of 8 weeks and 12 years since I was a sophomore in high school. From that age on, I also took several child development classes, along with educational philosophy and curriculum studies classes. This spring, I finished my Bachelor's degree in Educational Foundations, and I hope to continue taking child development courses toward earning my Child Development Associate. I love being a part of Creative Minds. Coming to work with these amazing kids and dedicated teachers every day is a joy. I look forward to learning and growing as a teacher by working in such a positive environment.

Emily is Gateway School's Assistant Director and Pre-K/Kindergarten Teacher. She started with CMLC in Fall of 2010. Emily is originally from Michigan and has a Bachelors degree in Elementary Education. Emily chose CMLC because of the philosophy to foster creativity and imagination. As a Teacher, she hopes to motivate the students in finding their inner strengths and abilities and discovering what truly inspires them. Emily strongly believes that integrating the arts into curriculum greatly improves students knowledge and enjoyment of the topics we are learning. She loves seeing the children blossom throughout the year. Their positive attitudes and silly stories always keeps her smiling!

Megan is Broadway School's Assistant Director and Lead Kindergarten Teacher. She has her Bachelors of Science in teaching Early Childhood through Elementary-aged children. Since graduating, she has worked as a Reading Coach, an Assistant Teacher, a Lead Teacher, and a Substitute Teacher. Megan believes in creating a supportive and creative learning environment in which children can learn and discover freely. She looks forward to the inevitably wonderful adventures and the outstanding discoveries to be experienced this year in Alder.

Lauren is the Lead Pre-K Teacher in the Juniper Classroom. She recently moved to the Portland area after graduating with a Bachelor's in Education from the University of Missouri in Kansas City. She has been working with kids for the past five years, and is excited to be joining the team here at CMLC. Lauren is focused on creating a safe and fun learning space for all of her friends at CMLC. In her spare time Lauren loves hiking, biking, reading, doing yoga, and playing with her dog Remy.

Larissa is the Broadway School Toddler Teacher. She graduated from Dordt College with a degree in Elementary Education and Special Education. After graduation she got a job working with Toddler-aged chidlren and grew to really enjoy watching young kids grow and develop. Creative Minds has provided her with another great opportunity to work with kids.

Hello I'm Teacher Jessica! I am currently working in the Van Gogh Class at Westmoreland. What an honor! Right now, not only am I working full time for CMLC, but I also go to school full time. Wahoo! I am in school for basic studies at Clackamas Community College, but it will put me on a career track for the school I pursue next. I am currently researching schools and looking into their Social Services and Human Services programs. I have a huge heart and compassion for women in need and one day plan to start my own women's ministry. On my free time I am very involved at my church. My life is constantly bursting with little surprises. I am always growing and changing. Working with the children at CMLC has brought me so much joy. I love to play and be silly with my students. I love having the privilege to work with your amazing creations!

My name is Allison and I am the Kindergarten teacher here at the Sellwood school. I am so excited to get working with your child! I have my bachelors degree in Elementary Education from California State University Long Beach and my Teachers Credential for students K-8th grade. I have been working with young students since I was 17. I have varied experience in teaching young children. I have taught art, cooking, and health, and have coached soccer, basketball and baseball. I am looking forward to teaching your children using the StarFall curriculum and broadening their own interests on a deeper level. We have a small class which is very fortunate. This will allow myself to get to know you and your child really well. Feel free to talk with me and share what you and your child are interested in learning this year!

Jamie is Gateway school's Lead Pre-K teacher. She chose Creative Minds because she, "knew it would be a place where not only the children could blossom into their full potential, but (her) as well." Jamie enjoys working with children because of "their precious adventures, imaginations and sense of humor that make every day new and exciting." When not at work, Jamie says she does her best to live up to their magical standard. Of course, as an adult, this translates into a walk outside with her hubby and pooch or getting curled up on a couch reading an inspiring story. Jamie thanks Creative Minds for allowing her to live everyday as new and fresh with our little ones.

Amanda has worked at CMLC since January 2011. She feels so grateful to get the opportunity to work with their 3-4 year olds at the Broadway School. Amanda has her Undergraduate Degree in Japanese (U of O), Master's in Teaching and Teaching Certification (Concordia University) and ESOL Endorsement (PSU). She was lucky enough to get to live in Japan both as a teacher and as a student. Before finding her way to CMLC, Amanda worked as a public school teacher. Although she loved teaching middle school students, there's nothing quite like spending her days with eager preschoolers! Amanda feels so happy to have found her second home @ CMLC.

Hi everyone, my name is Megan and I am in the Sequoia room. I have a passion for working with children and I see everyday as a learning opportunity. I recently graduated with a Master of Arts in Teaching, and also have a Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Sciences with an emphasis on Early Childhood and Elementary Education. Throughout my education I have worked with a variety of age groups, from two years to 6th grade, but I found that I love spending time with the preschool group and from these children I learn something new everyday. I love the supportive and welcoming community that Creative Minds creates for its kids and teachers!

Teacher Taylor is one of our Toddler Teachers at the Gateway School. She has been with Creative Minds since Fall 2010 and says that she couldn't be more happy with where she is today! Taylor loves working with children as "they are amazing little people with crazy imaginations, silly things to say, and smiling faces!" She loves being able to see them grow and learning new concepts every day. Taylor stated that she is so grateful to be a part of the Creative Minds team and has plans to expand her Early Childhood education in the future. We are so thankful to have Taylor as one of our awesome teachers and to see daily her love and dedication to the children of Gateway Creative Minds.

Hi, I'm Stephyn! I work in the Warhol Room at the Westmoreland School. I am currently in school myself to obtain my degree in Early Childhood Education. Previously I worked as a nanny for many years, but I am so happy to be a part of the CMLC family. I love working with infants because of the HUGE transition they undergo in such a short amount of time. Everyday begins with new challenges and ends with greater strength, both physically and mentally. I believe in providing an environment that allows every child to thrive, and that allows children to grow at their own individual paces. When not at work I spend my time with my comic book loving husband and our daughter, who wishes to be a paleontologist/ doctor/ good mother.

Hello! My name is Susan and I am the Lead Jr. Toddler Teacher at the Sellwood campus. I have a B.A. in Psychology from the University of Maine at Farmington, but found that after my nephew and niece were born in 2005 and 2006, my passion was not so much in the mental health field as it was in early childhood education. I worked at a small Montessori school in Lexington, VA for 3 years; 2 of those years I was the lead teacher in an infant/toddler classroom, and 1 year I was an assistant teacher in a primary aged classroom. After that I moved to Tulsa, OK to live with my boyfriend and worked as a Master Teacher in a toddler class at the Chapman Child Learning Center. When my boyfriend's job relocated us to Portland, I was thrilled to start working at Creative Minds Learning Center as lead Jr. Toddler teacher.

Courtney is our Sellwood School's Infant Teacher. She has years of experience working with children as a Nanny, helping take care of her 5 younger brothers, and working for her mothers in-home daycare. She started nannying in 2005, traveling to Florida, Hawaii, and California for several different families. In 2007, she graduated from Gresham High School completing courses on Child Behavior, Child Care, Child Care Cadet, and Cadet Teaching. In February 2011, Courtney started her Journey at CMLC. "It has been a blast working at Creative Minds Learning Center! I enjoy serving the children healthy food and I like how green our schools are. I love working with children, and for me it is much more than just a job. Everyday is a new adventure. What I love most about working with children is that it doesn't matter if it's one child or 15, I'm making a difference in someones life!"

My name is Dominique and I am the Lead Infant Teacher in the Blackberry classroom. I am 29 years old and I've been working with children for 10 years. I am going to school for Early Childhood & Family Studies. My goal is to become an Advocating Parent Support Specialist for young expecting mothers, to aid them in becoming better parents. I have a wonderful partner and a 5 year old son at home. In my spare time, I love to skateboard, teach young girls to skateboard, read, listen to music (Classical is my favorite), and play softball.

Hello my name is Hadley and I am the Lead Toddler Teacher in the Cedar classroom at the Sellwood CMLC. I recently received an associate's degree in early childhood education from Mt. Hood Community College and plan on extending my education in the next few years. I have been working with children since I was a teenager and have wanted to be a teacher for as long as I can remember. I love seeing young children's minds grow as they learn and explore the world around them. As a teacher of young children I think it is important to provide exciting and engaging experiences in the classroom that encourage children's natural exploration and interests.

Hi! I'm Iulia and I am a Teacher Aide at Creative Minds Learning Center, located in Sellwood. I recently graduated from David Douglas High School and am very happy to have become a part of the CMLC family! I started working with children when I was a junior in high school at Harmony Montessori School. I worked there for two years and started working here at CMLC in July 2011. I love working with the little ones! They are a lot of fun! I also have a twin sister, Ivi, who is a teacher here at CMLC too! In the future, I plan to go to college to finish my education.

Hello, my name is Ivi. I recently graduated from David Douglas High School (class of 2011) and I am so fortunate to have the opportunity to work as a Teacher Assistant at CMLC in the Jr. Toddler classroom. I am very happy and extremely excited to be part of the CMLC team. I love working with the little ones, seeing them grow each day, learning new words, and exploring the world around them. They are always full of energy and they love learning new things. Before working at Creative Minds Learning Center, I worked at Harmony Montessori for 2 years as a teacher assistant in the aftercare program. I am currently enrolled at Mt. Hood Community College to futher my education.

Hello! My name is Sarah and I am a teacher in the Maple classroom. Ever since I was in elementary school I wanted to be a teacher. Children bring out the best in me and I love their energy and sense of humor! I graduated from the University of Montana with a BA in elementary education. I am so excited to be apart of Creative Minds and their community. Here's to a great year!

My name is Stephanie and I am the Toddler Teacher in the Maple Room. I am so excited to be a part of such a great school and a new campus! I have my Bachelor of Arts in English Literature and have been working with children since Jr. High. As part of my senior project at Portland State University I worked with the S.U.N. program helping develop an after-school art program at a local elementary school. We partnered with S.C.R.A.P. to develop art projects that used recycled materials and the kids had so much fun! I also had a chance to work internationally with a wonderful group of children both in Thailand and Indonesia doing art projects. Art is an amazing way to build community and help children connect. I worked at Sun Garden Montessori Children's House in West Lynn for the last year, as their after school Art Teacher. I love the toddler age group because of their interest in everything happening around them. They are so fascinated by different textures, sounds, and sites. What a fun age group!

Hi! I'm Courtney and I am a Toddler Teacher in the Cedar class at CMLC Sellwood. I started my education in child development when I was in 8th grade and continued through high school. I worked at the Early Learning Center Preschool as a Teacher Aide when I was a sophomore, and interned as a junior. Most of my experience has been with infants through preschool aged children. As a senior in high school, I completed a practicum placement with a 4th/5th grade class. I love watching children explore and learn new things. It's so exciting! I'm very excited to be a part of the CMLC team where I have the pleasure to watch children learn and grow.

Hello, I'm Tiffany and I teach Pre-K at the Woodstock school. I'm so excited to spend my days with your children learning, creating, and discovering! I have a Bachelor's Degree from Reed College where I studied Biology, and a Master's in Teaching from Lewis and Clark. I've taught science to kids of all ages (K through College level), and I'm looking forward to incorporating this personal passion into our regular classroom routine. As a teacher I love to see students take the initiative to learn on their own and watch the "light bulb" go on. I hope that I can help students become life long learners by creating an environment that is irresistibly fun and educational!

Hi! I'm Dana and I'm so excited to be a Toddler Teacher at our Woodstock School. I am the oldest of 7 children, and working with kids has always been my passion. I love being able to share my creative spirit through art and music. I hope to inspire children to explore and learn, and show their creativity. I don't think I could ever do anything else!

Hi! I'm Becca. I experienced the importance of beginning learning at a very early age with my students. I have a strong passion for teaching and love to bring language-learning into the classroom as much as possible. I am so excited to be teaching at Creative Minds. My teaching philosophy aligns perfectly with the school and I feel so lucky to have been given this opportunity. I love our teachers, students, families and community!

My name is Morgan and I am the preschool teacher at Gateway Creative Minds. I recently graduated from George Fox University with a degree in Elementary Education and Early Childhood Education. I've lived in Oregon for 10 years and love living in the Northwest! I like Creative Minds because of the collaborative environment. The teachers work together to ensure that the children are given the best possible opportunities as well as working closely with parents, always keeping the children's best interest in mind. I have always wanted to work with children because I love the excitement they can bring to the smallest things. They never cease to amaze me!

Hello, my name is Kristin. I have been surrounded by children through my Mom's daycare since I was five years old. When I was 18 I began working alongside my Mom as her back-up provider. I also nannied for seven years before coming to work for Creative Minds. I am currently working toward my degree in ECE and I am thrilled to be working in the Westmoreland Monet classroom. I look forward to growing and learning with your children. "Children are the worlds most valuable resource and its best hope for the future."

Hi! I'm Angela, I have been working with Creative Minds Learning Centers since the Sellwood school opened in July, 2011 as an afternoon Aide. I have always wanted to be a teacher but I never really explored my interests until I was introduced to Creative Minds. Working with the children in the amazing environment CMLC provides has encouraged me to further my education in Early Childhood Education. From their loving smiles to the moments when you know they have learned something new, the children inspire me to also use my passion in art to creatively educate and move my way up with the CMLC Family.

Hi! My name is Traci and I recently joined the CMLC team as the Pre K Teacher at Sellwood! I have taught Pre K for the last 6 years and have worked with children 2 years old to school age for 6 years prior to that. I value promoting healthy learning environments as they discover new things so it is an honor to be at CMLC! I moved to OR from northern WA to attend Multnomah University where I received my Bachelors degree in Educational Ministries & Biblical Studies. When I'm not with kids I enjoy hiking, camping, scrapbooking, dragon boating and most of all, being an auntie!

Hey there! My name is Jenna, and I am one of two teachers in the Monet classroom at Westmoreland. I just moved here in September of 2011 all the way from Chicago (hence the strong midwest accent I've only recently discovered I have)! In Illinois I was a Teaching Assistant for a Toddler class at a Preschool and an Emergency Medical Dispatcher. I have always known in my heart that I belong working with children. I not only love it here in Portland, but I love teaching at Creative Minds! When I am not at work, I can be found painting, writing, going to concerts, or just exploring my new home state. Your children are a constant reminder of how lucky I am to be doing what I love. I couldn't imagine doing anything else. I am so excited everyday that I am able to share my love and positivity with them and help them learn and grow.

My name is Lindsey, and I am one of the Lead Van Gogh teachers at the Westmoreland school. At a very young age, I realized that I wanted a career working closely with and helping children and their families. I have many years of experience working with children from infancy through 12 years old in a variety of educational settings. I enjoy working with children not only because I love being a part of their learning process, but because they in turn, have so much to teach me. They are also a consistent reminder to not take life too seriously at times! With what spare time I do have, I enjoy spending it with my family and kids. I am very excited and grateful to be a part of the CMLC family and look forward to everything it has to offer.

I'm Lisa, one of the Pre-Kindergarten Teachers at the Woodstock school. I started working at Creative Minds in September 2011. I graduated from Reed College in 2010 with a Bachelors in Psychology and from Lewis and Clark Graduate School of Education in 2011 with a Masters in Teaching and an Oregon license to teach elementary school. In my spare time I love to knit, read, and dance. I also enjoy spending time with my pet hedgehog, Emma. I truly enjoy working with children because they are full of surprises. I love the excitement and energy every student brings with them to school. Each day, I can't wait to see how much the students grow as a learners and as members of our community. I love working at Creative Minds because of the amazing artwork our students create every day!

Hello, I'm Erika, a co-teacher in the Juniper classroom at the Broadway site. I studied Educational Foundations and Sociology at the University of Oregon and have always loved working with children. Before finding a home at Creative Minds, I previously worked in preschool and daycare settings, and provided child-care services for a women's recovery meeting for many years. What I love most about preschoolers is their unending curiosity and creativity. Being able to work in an environment that encourages children to develop academic and interpersonal skills through artistic expression resonates with my teaching approach. I believe that when children feel safe and valued, their potential for growth is limitless.

Hey everyone! I'm teacher Aaron and you can find me at the Sellwood School. After getting my degree from Florida State I worked, for three years, with several different age groups in Tallahassee at an amazing center. I moved to Oregon in September, found CMLC and was able to substitute at several locations. Getting to know the kids and teachers at each center was great, and now I get to do that at Sellwood everyday! :) Kids are a last frontier of creativity, honesty, and hugs! It is an honor to work with them. The children out here are very cute and love books which is perfect! I was a radio station DJ at FSU, I LOVE music, and love going to concerts. I will totally make you a mix cd, just ask! I also like difficult hikes, even in bad weather

Hi! I'm Alex and I am the Younger Infant Co-Teacher at the Sellwood School. I have been working with kids since I was old enough to babysit! I have 5 years of experience as a nanny and also as an Infant Room Teacher. I love working with all children of all ages and right now my heart is with the infants! I was married in December and will graduate from Portland State in March with a Social Science degree! I look forward to sharing this new and exciting time in my life with the CMLC family.

Khoi is our Cook here at the Broadway location and has been with us since September of 2009. Previous to her time here at Creative Minds, Khoi worked as a resturaunt cook and was a teacher in Vietnam for 12 years. Khoi then relocated and moved here to the United States in 2003. Khoi has four children of her own, 2 boys and 2 girls. She loves cooking and loves the teachers that work here. Coming in to work is so enjoyable for her because she feels "peaceful" here and loves her job.

Hi, my name is Allison and I am the Cook at the Sellwood School. I studied culinary arts at the Western Culinary Institute and have many years of experience working with children in both a school setting as well as coaching youth sports. I love to work with kids and enjoy cooking! Working at Creative Minds has given me the opportunity to do both!

Hi, I'm Thuan Pham. I cook at the woodstock school. I grew up and went to school in Vietnam. I moved to the Oregon in 1999. I have been a cook since I was a small girl working in a restaurant with my family. I like to cook for kids because they always appreciate it. I Have two children of my own one boy and one girl. I love the kids and the teachers at this school.

We want to thank all of our Teachers and Aides who are committed to the development of our schools and encouragement to the children. We hand pick the very best people to make a team which delivers the company's philosophy of "listening to childrens hearts with understanding and a true commitment to an artistic, organic and healthy setting". Each teacher puts together a biography, giving you a peek at who they are which is displayed throughout the centers.

If you are interested in becoming a part of Creative Minds Learning Center's team, either by joining our Parent's Organization Board or applying to be a teacher or aide, please visit the Contact Us page and email us your information.

Click here for an employee application form.

Provider classes & training resources are available at http://metroccrr.org/trainings.html

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