Pipster Prep Staff
Tessa Steinberg
Owner, Executive Director
Tessa Steinberg is the Director and Owner of Pipster Prep. Tessa earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Business Accounting from Oregon State University. After working in the accounting field for a few years, she decided to make a career change. With a love of children and education, Tessa moved to South Korea where she taught English to children ages three to ten years old. Upon returning to Portland, she enrolled at University of Portland and earned her Master’s in Teaching. She went on to teach Kindergarten and First Grade in the Evergreen School District. As a kindergarten and first grade teacher, she saw how important kindergarten readiness was. Her dream of opening a preschool began while in Korea, and with her experience in public education, she is excited to be able to prepare students for entering elementary school. When Tessa isn’t working she enjoys spending time with her husband and two children, Solveigh and Weldon.
Jessica Castrapel
Lake Oswego Site Director
Jessica Castrapel is the Site Director of our Lake Oswego Pipster Prep. Jessica began her career at Pipster Prep in August of 2014 and is so proud to be working alongside her sister who is the school founder, Tessa Steinberg. She earned her Master of Education from Loyola University. Jessica is AMI Montessori trained and earned an Assistance to Infancy Teaching Diploma from Montessori Institute Northwest. She has a passion for early education and knows that providing an environment full of rich, happy experiences aids a child in developing a love for learning. Her goal is to inspire children to seek peace, reveal their uniqueness, and fulfill their potential. When she is not at Pipster Prep, Jessica enjoys gardening, paddle boarding, and spending time with her dogs and husband, Elias.
Alisha Harms
Hillside Site Director, Teacher
Alisha Harms is the Hillside Site Director and Head Teacher in our Rabbit Classroom. Alisha started at Pipster Prep in September of 2017. She received her bachelor’s degree from Earlham College in Richmond, Indiana with a major in Biology. After college, Alisha moved to Portland and worked as a nanny for five years. She also spent a year interning at OMSI in their Early Childhood Education Department before starting at Pipster Prep. Alisha has always loved working with children, and believes that providing a space that caters to everyone's individuality will instill a love for learning throughout their entire life. In her spare time, Alisha loves hiking, birding, crafting, and spending time with her son, Leon.
Laura Gwin
Concordia Teacher
Laura Gwin is the Head Teacher in our Concordia Fawn Classroom. Laura earned a bachelor’s degree in Communications from the University of San Diego. After working in Interior Design, Laura made a career change. She was a Lead Teacher at a preschool in San Francisco before relocating to Portland. Laura started at Pipster Prep in August of 2017. She has a true love of learning and a passion for working with young children. She has completed additional coursework in Early Childhood Education since becoming a teacher. Laura has a natural ability to care for, understand and connect with children. She believes that confidence and self-awareness can be achieved amongst students by regular positive reinforcement, which Laura instills in her teaching method daily. When she is not at Pipster Prep, she enjoys singing, baking, hiking, crafting, and trying new restaurants.
Rachel Podrabsky
SW Teacher
Rachel Podrabsky is a Head Teacher in our SW Fawn Classroom and our SW Assistant Site Director. Rachel started as a Co-Teacher at our NE Pipster Prep in October 2018. She earned a bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Oregon in 2015. Before beginning her career at Pipster Prep, Rachel worked for the David Douglas School District as an Instructional Assistant for 3 years. Rachel is most interested in helping students become successful by working with each individual student's personal needs. She hopes to build a child's independence by teaching the social and emotional skills that are so needed when heading into their early childhood and beyond. Rachel enjoys spending time with friends, traveling, camping, and reading.
Kelly Schilling
Concordia Site Director
Kelly Schilling is the Site Director of our Concordia Pipster Prep Location. Kelly started at Pipster Prep as a Co-Teacher in February of 2018. She was the lead teacher in our NW Fawn Class before becoming a Director. She was born and raised in the greater Portland area. Kelly earned her bachelor’s degree in Sociology with a focus on children and families from Oregon State University. Kelly has always wanted to work with children and has prior experience as a nanny for a family of three girls. She is excited to be a daily part of a child's preliminary educational experience. It is her purpose to make each day a great one for every child and to help them develop and get ready not only for kindergarten but for life. When Kelly is not at Pipster Prep, she spends her time taking care of her many houseplants and her dog, Duke.
Nina Kessler
Southwest Site Director
Nina Kessler is the Site Director of our SW Pipster Prep. Nina started at NW Pipster Prep in 2019 as a Head Teacher. Since then Nina has earned her Bachelor of Science in Social Sciences with a focus on Family Studies. She has traveled around the world where she has enjoyed volunteering at schools in Cambodia and Belize. Nina aims to foster an environment where students and staff feel valued, heard, and free to be themselves! In her free time, she enjoys visiting family, exploring the Portland food scene, and hanging at home with her cat Walter.
Hannah Verbout
Piedmont Site Director
Hannah Verbout is the Site Director of our Piedmont Pipster Prep Location. Hannah started at Pipster Prep in December 2019 as a co-teacher. Since then, Hannah has earned her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and Preliminary Teaching License in Oregon. She was the lead teacher of our NE PreK classroom before becoming a Director. Hannah aims to provide an inclusive and fun environment where her students feel valued and empowered to be their own unique selves. Her goal is to inspire students to love learning and equip them with strategies that can be used beyond the walls of the classroom, in all aspects of their life. When she’s not at Pipster, Hannah enjoys baking, eating ice cream from Salt & Straw, going to the beach, spending time with her family and friends, and playing with her cat, Kitty.
Anaisa Soto
Lake Oswego Teacher
Anaisa Soto is the Assistant Site Director and head Teacher in our Lake Oswego Raccoon Classroom. She started at Pipster Prep in June of 2021. Anaisa received her Bachelor's in Liberal Studies with a concentration in Teacher Preparation at California State University, East Bay. She believes in tailoring the classroom to the needs of her students, while simultaneously providing the opportunity to explore. She believes that learning should be fun and activity-based. She understands that a classroom is also a place where children develop. Anaisa promotes kindness, patience, and empathy in the classroom. When not at Pipster Prep, Anaisa works on bringing old family dishes to life and enjoys hiking and skating whenever she can. She looks forward to connecting, learning, and developing with the students at Pipster Prep.
Korah Vonderahe
Concordia Teacher
Korah Vonderahe is the Head Teacher in our Concordia Owl Classroom. She started at Pipster Prep in May of 2021. Korah received her Oregon teaching license and Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from George Fox University. As the oldest of five siblings, teaching young children has been a dream of hers since she was a little girl, and she is enthusiastic about building strong relationships and delivering differentiated student-centered support in a way that makes learning fun! Korah is passionate about social and racial justice, and play/discovery-based learning, and is dedicated to using patience, compassion, creativity, and culturally responsive instruction in her teaching to foster an engaging and supportive environment. When she is not teaching, Korah loves to spend time with loved ones, go shopping, be out in nature, do art, and make music!
Grace Pestridge
Concordia Teacher
Grace Pestridge is the Head Teacher in our Concordia Otter Classroom and our Concordia Assistant Site Director. Grace graduated from Arizona State University with a Bachelor's in Early Childhood Education and Early Childhood Special Education and her Arizona Teaching License. She completed two years of student teaching across Preschool and Elementary settings in addition to over six years of experience in childcare. In her senior year, Grace completed an honors thesis on positive behavior intervention strategies. Grace believes that her classroom should be a place where all students feel safe to explore, ask questions, and try new things. She strives to foster a hands-on and inclusive learning environment. In her free time, Grace enjoys baking, traveling, and going to the movies. In the future Grace hopes to get a Master's in Education.
Sami Willard
Piedmont Teacher
Sami Willard is the Head Teacher in our Piedmont Mini Pipster class. She began working as a Co-Teacher at our NW location in 2015. Sami quickly fell in love with early childhood education and fostering a safe space for her students to grow and learn. She puts a lot of effort into making our youngest students feel excited to be in the classroom and explore new ideas and lessons. Sami was born and raised in the Portland area and has a great love for her city. She obtained her associate’s degree in applied science from Mt. Hood Community College and plans to return to school and further her schooling in education. When Sami isn’t in the classroom, you can find her exploring all Oregon has to offer with her daughter Khloe, cheering on the Blazers, or planning her next trip to somewhere tropical!
Bernadette Karns
Hillside Teacher
Bernadette Karns is the Head Teacher in our Hillside Preschool Bear Classroom. Bernadette started at Pipster Prep in June of 2021 as the co teacher for the Mini Pipster Fawn class. She then transitioned into head teaching in September of 2022. Bernadette graduated from Portland State University in 2020 with her bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a minor in Child and Family Studies. Prior to working at Pipster Prep, Bernadette worked as a behavioral technician assisting children ages 2-3 who have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. Her goal is to create a classroom environment where all children feel safe, happy, creative, and most importantly empowered to be their best selves. When she’s not at Pipster you’ll catch her around Portland trying new foods, shooting film photography, or spending time at home embroidering with her two cats.
Courtney Nigo
SW Teacher
Courtney Nigo is the Head Teacher in our SW Rabbit Classroom. Courtney began her teaching adventure at Pipster Prep in September 2021 and cannot wait to continue her love for teaching here! Courtney graduated from Clackamas Community College with her Associate's degree in Early Childhood Education & Family Studies. She has eight years of teaching experience with PreK students. Courtney strives to build a kind and caring classroom through social-emotional skills; as well as teaching the importance of independence, creativity, and diversity in an engaging and hands-on learning environment. When she is not at Pipster Prep, she enjoys traveling, OrangeTheory, her two cats, and spending time with her husband and family.
Brooke Rencher
Hillside Teacher
Brooke Rencher is our Hillside Assistant Site Director and the Head Teacher in our Hillside Mini Pipster Fawn Classroom. Brooke graduated from Portland State University with a Bachelor's in Mathematics with minors in Music and Education. Originally intending to teach high school, Brooke began working in Early Childhood Education in 2015 and fell in love! She’s spent the last six years working with children and building her experience as a teacher and caretaker. Brooke believes classroom learning happens when children feel safe, empowered, and inspired at school, and approaches all behavior management with a problem-solving mindset. She loves to incorporate her background in math and music into the classroom in all different developmental areas. In her free time, Brooke loves baking, exploring her local farmers market, and spending time with friends.
Blake Moreno
NW Teacher
Blake Moreno is the Head Teacher in our NW Badger Classroom. Teacher Blake has worked in early childhood education for over 19 years. He has most recently been in preschool leadership positions but has spent about 15 years working in classrooms creating enriching activities and lessons for his students. Blake believes that education in a classroom starts with respect for your students and families. Building a relationship of trust and compassion is the foundation for a collaborative and meaningful learning experience. Blake has lived in Portland since he was in middle school. He currently lives downtown with his 2-year-old Labradoodle- Ruxpin. They really enjoy walking the neighborhood and he loves drinking iced coffee all year long.
Maria “Fer” Bennett
NW Teacher
Maria “Fer” Bennett is the Head Teacher in our NW Bear Classroom and our NW Assistant Site Director. She has been at Pipster Prep since the summer of 2021. She earned her Montessori certificate in the summer of 2022. Prior to Pipster, Fer worked as a nanny for 3 years as well as in a Montessori early childhood program at her church. Fer believes that all children are unique and must have a stimulating educational environment where they can grow physically, mentally, emotionally, and socially. Her desire is to create this type of atmosphere where students can meet their full potential. She believes this can be reached by providing a safe environment where students feel welcome to share their ideas and take risks.
Mercedes Tracy
SW Teacher
Mercedes Tracy is the Head Teacher in our SW Preschool Bear Classroom. Mercedes has a BFA in Performing Arts with a triple concentration in acting, playwriting, and directing from Cornish College of the Arts. With this background, Mercedes encourages students to use creative exploration in their learning. She celebrates self-expression and aims to create a space for students to be their most authentic selves. Throughout the last four years, Mercedes has had the opportunity to build her experience in the classroom as an Assistant Teacher as well as working in Special Education in the Portland area. She started at SW Pipster Prep as a Co-Teacher in September 2022. Her aim is for her classroom to be a space of inclusivity and acceptance for children of all backgrounds. Mercedes' lessons are driven by the individual needs of her students with the goal to help each student discover and reach their potential. She supports her students in building independence and confidence within themselves along with developing empathy and kindness toward others. When not at Pipster Prep you can find Mercedes baking, watching movies, and traveling.
Abby Franz
SW Teacher
Abby Franz is the head teacher of the SW Owl Class. Abby began working at SW Pipster Prep in May of 2022. After earning her Bachelor’s degree in Family Social Science from the University of Minnesota—Twin Cities, she relocated from Minneapolis to Portland and loves being in the PNW. Abby’s knowledge of interpersonal relationships have influenced her passion for meaningful connection and emotional intelligence. She understands the importance of creating a welcoming environment where student relationships can thrive and students are embraced for the unique individual they are. She empowers her students to advocate for their needs and have a strong sense of self-worth. Supporting your child during such an important developmental chapter is something she cherishes deeply and does not take lightly. Beyond the classroom, Abby adores the outdoors and the peace that can be found in nature. She loves camping with her partner, Vince, doing puzzles, and snuggling with her kitty, Olaf!
Gaby Negrete-Flores
Lake Oswego Teacher
Gaby Negrete-Flores is the Lake Oswego Head Teacher in our Otter Classroom. Gaby started co-teaching at Pipster Prep in December 2021. Gaby received her Bachelors in Psychology with a minor in Health Studies from Portland State University. Outside of Pipster, Gaby enjoys weight training, baking, and shopping. Gaby aims to provide a classroom that feels safe and inviting to her students, with the ultimate goal of aiding in their social and emotional development. Gaby strongly encourages and supports her students to grow their independence skills, spread kindness, and respect others. Gaby loves to highlight her students' uniqueness and empower them to be their authentic selves.
Noel Romero
Lake Oswego Teacher
Noel Romero is the Head Teacher of our Lake Oswego Opossum classroom. She started at Pipster Prep as a Co-Teacher in June of 2022. Noel has received her Bachelor's degree in Social Sciences with a minor in Elementary Education at Portland State University. She previously worked as a Behavioral Interventionist for children with developmental disabilities as well as an academic tutor with children. Noel strives to support students in their development of social-emotional skills, creativity, and independence by creating a welcoming and fun community in the classroom. She understands the importance of encouraging & demonstrating kindness, and patience to set her students up for success. When she is not teaching, Noel enjoys spending time with her friends and family, reading, enjoying live music and snuggling with her pup Cooba!
Presley Gauthier
Lake Oswego Teacher
Presley Gauthier is the Head Teacher of our Lake Oswego Fox classroom. She started at Pipster Prep as a Co-Teacher in November of 2021. Presley has earned a Montessori Education degree and always wanted to be a teacher. At Pipster, she discovered her flair for early education and is passionate about providing a fun and nurturing introduction to school to instill a lifelong love for learning. Presley inspires curiosity and exploration by encouraging students’ to be actively participating in all activities. Presley brings a joyful, vivacious, and creative spirit to the classroom and hopes to provide students with the confidence they need to pursue any challenges they may face. Outside of teaching, Presley enjoys cooking, shopping, watching movies, and spending time with her friends and family.
Bekah Cave
Concordia Teacher
Teacher Bekah is the Head Teacher in the Concordia Bear Class. Bekah earned her bachelor of science in Human Development and Family Science with a focus on Human Services. Bekah has had the privilege of working in diverse environments, including homes, schools, and the community, providing support to adults and teens with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Her most recent job was as a Home Educator, offering comprehensive child development and family support services to pregnant women and children aged 0-3 through weekly home visits. Working closely within family systems and promoting positive attachments between parents and their children in the home setting has been a crucial part of her journey. Bekah believes in creating an inclusive and nurturing environment that encourages exploration, independence, collaboration, and creative learning. partnering with families to understand what works best for their child and offering tailored support.
Andrew Schmitt
Concordia Teacher
Andrew is the Head Teacher in our Fox Class at Concordia Pipster Prep. They earned their bachelor of arts in Psychology from Perdue University. They just moved to Oregon in June 2023 and are still learning all about their new community. They have worked in early childhood education for 4 years. Before Pipster Prep, Andrew worked as a registered Behavior Technician with youth diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder to teach them daily living and coping skills inside and outside of the classroom setting. Andrew believes that every child learns differently and faces different challenges from their own lens. Andrew’s goal is to create a warm, welcoming environment for new students to encourage a love of learning and feeling of community.
Caitlin Miranda
Northwest Site Director
Caitlin Miranda is the Site Director of our Northwest Pipster Prep Location. Caitlin earned her bachelor's degree in Child Development and Family Life Education from California State University Long Beach. Since earning her degree, Caitlin has worked in behavior intervention, special education, and transitional youth shelters. She began working as a co-teacher at our NW Pipster location in January of 2023 before transitioning into a Head Teacher and now Site Director role. Caitlin is originally from California. In the classroom, she believes that building relationships with students and families is an essential part in education. Caitlin hopes to nurture students' individual needs and create an environment that is safe for exploration.
Kate Jerome
Lake Oswego Teacher
in the Early Childhood Education field and has student-taught in several child care centers with ages ranging from infants to 6-year-olds. Kate is dedicated to creating an exciting, hands-on learning experience in the classroom, with a focus on social-emotional learning and creativity. She is passionate about developing an empathetic, nurturing, and individualized learning experience for every student while actively validating student’s individual needs and interests. Outside of Pipster, Kate spends her free time reading, crocheting, snuggling her 3 cats, and spending time with her family.
Bryn Goedde-Matthews
Lake Oswego Teacher
Bryn Goedde-Matthews is the Head Teacher of our Lake Oswego Preschool Bear classroom. She started at Pipster Prep as a Co-Teacher in September of 2023. She earned a Bachelors in Psychology from Lewis and Clark College. Bryn aims to facilitate growth and creativity in her classroom. She believes a classroom should be a safe space to explore and try new things. By encouraging independence and a growth mindset, she hopes to help every student feel empowered. She is passionate about promoting a connection to place for her students as well as helping them to develop their own interests. Outside of Pipster, Bryn enjoys hiking, rowing, and reading.
McKenzie Hawker
Lake Oswego Teacher
McKenzie Hawker is the Head Teacher of our Lake Oswego Pipster Prep Rabbit classroom. She started at Pipster Prep as a Co-Teacher in April of 2024. She received a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Child Development from Texas Christian University. She has worked as a nanny for over six years with children ranging from a month old to thirteen years of age. McKenzie has always had a love for children and helping to provide them with a safe place to grow and thrive. She aims to have a classroom where the children feel known, loved, and safe. She strives to provide a classroom that encourages children to be independent, inclusive, helpful, creative, and themselves! Outside of Pipster, McKenzie enjoys reading, pilates, spending time with her friends and family, exploring new spots to eat, and being outside hiking and paddle boarding.
Alison Francis
Lake Oswego Teacher
Alison Francis is the Head Teacher of our Lake Oswego Pipster Prep Mouse classroom. She started at Pipster Prep as a Co-Teacher in November of 2023. Alison has earned a Montessori Education degree. Alison was born in France where she has earned a teaching certificate. Alison has worked with kids from age 0 to 4 years old for more than 15 years. She arrived in Portland with her husband and her 3 daughters in 2014. She believes in creating a safe and nurturing environment that encourages creative and independent learning. Outside of Pipster Alison loves to spend time with her family, crafting, cooking,
Courtney Miller
Northwest Teacher
Courtney Miller is the Head Teacher in our preschool class at NW Pipster Prep. She joined our team in 2023 as a co-teacher and quickly became a valued part of our school community. Her love for teaching led her to complete her Montessori Teaching Certification through the North American Montessori Center. Since earning her certificate, Courtney creates a learning environment where all students feel safe and ready to learn. Before joining Pipster Prep, Courtney worked as a Direct Support Professional, supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Outside the classroom, Courtney has a creative spirit—she’s a skilled potter and even spent time as an intern at a pottery school in rural Tuscany! She finds so much joy in the natural curiosity children bring into the classroom and is passionate about creating a space where they feel safe, confident, and excited to learn and grow every day.
Kaylee Drasbek
Southwest Teacher
Kaylee is the Head Teacher in our Owl Preschool Classroom. Kaylee has been with Pipster Prep since 2021. She graduated from George Fox University with a BS in Elementary Education and her preliminary teaching license! As a preschool teacher, she believes in nurturing a safe and loving environment where each child feels valued and encouraged to explore. She wants to help students fall in love with learning, through stories, songs, and playful activities. Her goal is to ignite a passion for learning that will last a lifetime! As a mother of young kids she wants her classroom to be a safe place - somewhere she would love for her own children to grow, learn and enjoy being kids! When Kaylee is not teaching she enjoys spending time with her family including her partner, two young children, and dog Franky. As a family they LOVE cooking, eating and anything outdoors!
Anna Schmidt
Southwest Teacher
Anna is the Head Teacher in our SW Otter class. Anna has worked with children ages 3 months to 10 years since the age of 13. She attended Oregon State University, studying Human Development and Family Sciences and has recently received a Montessori Program Certification. Leading with love, empathy, and self-confidence is the primary ambition that Anna wants to share with her students. Her priority is creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for children to learn, explore, and have fun! She aims to help children grow in their academic knowledge as well as social-emotional development. Most importantly, she aspires to make a space for children to be comfortable to laugh, be silly, and have fun while they learn. Outside of Pipster, you can find her hiking, thrifting, kickboxing, crafting, spending time with family and friends, or cuddled up with her two cats, Sir Elliott Gumdrops and Reginald.
Char Sejour
Concordia Teacher
Charlene “Char” Sejour is the Head Teacher of our Rabbit classroom at Concordia. She has spent her career caring for children since 2013, operating in various capacities such as teacher, nanny, and ceramic instructor. Charlene is a certified Montessori teacher through NAMC's Early Childhood Program. Last year, she relocated from her home in New York City, where she most recently worked as an Assistant Teacher and Spanish tutor. Charlene believes the classroom should be a safe and caring environment for children to grow mentally, emotionally, and socially. As they embark on their learning journey, it is crucial to provide them with a solid foundation of techniques and tools as they gain the necessary confidence and independence to reach their full potential and love for learning. Charlene strives to create a fun and engaging environment where students can develop their unique views and can understand the world around them as they blossom into compassionate well-rounded individuals.
Devon Martinez
Concordia Teacher
Devon Martinez is a Head Teacher in the Raccoon classroom at Concordia Pipster Prep. Devon joined our team in 2023 after moving with her husband and toddler from South Texas. There, she had been a preschool teacher at a public school for two years. Devon received her Bachelor of Science degree from Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas, where she majored in education with a minor in early education. It is Devon’s primary focus to help and nurture a child’s emotional and social skills to set them up for success in the classroom and beyond. Devon recognizes the differences that each student brings to her classroom and celebrates all of the unique gifts they bring as individuals. Devon brings all of these beliefs to fruition in her classroom by honoring autonomy through providing moments of feedback, understanding and choice throughout each day.
Grace Hardy
Concordia Teacher
Grace Hardy is the Head Teacher of our Concordia Hedgehog Classroom. Grace earned a bachelor’s degree in Planning, Public Policy, and Management from the University of Oregon. After working in solar energy advocacy for a year, she shifted careers to her true passion: teaching. Throughout high school and college Grace worked as a camp counselor, tutor, nanny, and daycare provider. Post degree, she worked as a co-teacher and then was promoted to head teacher at another preschool in Portland. She then came to Pipster Prep as a co-teacher in the fall of 2023 and has been with us ever since! Gracie is passionate about instilling confidence and independence in each of her students through building strong individual relationships with each child and guiding them with positive reinforcement and skill building. Most of all, she aims to make her classroom a place of joy and community so that her students leave with a positive view of school and learning.
Chloe Zimmerman
NW Teacher
Chloe Zimmerman is the Head Teacher in our NW Fawn Class. Chloe started her journey at Pipster Prep in 2023, working as a Co-Teacher in both our SW and Concordia location. Chloe’s love for teaching brought her to our NW location as a Preschool Head Teacher. Before moving to Portland, Chloe spent time living in both Mexico and Spain, which helped shape her love for language and culture. She earned her degree from the University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, with a double major in Psychology and Spanish. Outside the classroom, Chloe loves staying active by playing softball, knitting cozy creations, and exploring new spots around Portland. She’s excited to bring her warmth, enthusiasm, and love for learning to her students every day!
Anna Cioeta
Piedmont Teacher
Anna Cioeta is the Head PreK Teacher at our Piedmont Location. Anna has been part of the Pipster Prep team since 2023 and earned her Bachelor’s degree from Portland State University. Anna has been working with children in various capacities since 2016. With a passion for fostering a love of learning, she strives to create a classroom environment that feels warm, supportive, and fun for her students. She believes in the importance of celebrating individuality, kindness, and inclusion, and aims to help her students develop their independence, social-emotional skills, and self-esteem. Outside of the classroom, Anna loves reading and spending time in nature. She also enjoys connecting with friends and exploring the beauty of Portland. Anna is excited to continue helping her students grow and thrive at Pipster Prep!
Ana Cruz
NW Teacher
Ana Cruz is the Head Teacher of the NW Owl Class. Ana joined Pipster Prep in 2024. Ana helps her students build confidence, explore new skills, and settle into the preschool routine in a warm and supportive environment. Ana has always had a passion for working with children. After graduating from the University of Oregon with a degree in Family and Human Services and a minor in Sociology, she worked in after-school care at an elementary school in Eugene and volunteered at a preschool. These experiences deepened her love for early childhood education and reinforced her belief in the importance of creating a space where kids feel safe, valued, and excited to learn. Outside the classroom, Ana cherishes time with her little brother and identical twin sister. She also loves discovering new places, trying new foods, and visiting the Oregon coast! She’s so excited to be part of Pipster Prep and can’t wait to watch her students learn and grow!
