Ms Lori: Our Director & Teacher at Brook Knoll Buddies. Welcome to Brook Knoll Buddies! I’m Ms. Lori, the proud founder and teacher of our cherished preschool. Since opening our doors in 2010, I’ve blended my passion for early childhood education with over 30 years of experience working with preschoolers. My journey began in 1994, and each year has contributed to the nurturing environment we offer today.
We believe that play is essential for learning, providing a foundation for exploration, creativity, and growth. Our play-based approach celebrates each child as a unique individual and supports their development through engaging activities.
I’m fortunate to work alongside an incredible team of early childhood educators, each bringing their own wonderful and unique qualities to our program. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of learning from incredible mentors and peers in our community who are dedicated to supporting early childhood education, profoundly shaping and influencing our approach.
Ms Eileen: Our Enthusiastic and Compassionate Educator at Brook Knoll Buddies. We were thrilled to welcome Eileen to our Brook Knoll Buddies team in 2024! Eileen brings a strong passion for education and community building. Eileen is a dedicated educator with a passion for fostering community and learning. A UCSC graduate with a Bachelor’s in Community Studies and a Master’s in Education, she brings a wealth of experience from roles as a swim coach and case manager. At Brook Knoll Buddies, Eileen is committed to creating a safe, inclusive environment where children feel supported and inspired. She looks forward to sharing her creativity, compassion, and love for learning with our little buddies and their families.
Ms. Jia: Our Passionate and Caring Co-Teacher at Brook Knoll Buddies, Ms. Jia is a valued member of our Brook Knoll Buddies team, bringing a deep passion for education that began in her family’s Montessori-style home-based program. With five years of experience in private childcare, she specializes in creating engaging sensory activities that make learning both fun and memorable. Currently working toward her Early Childhood Education credits, Ms. Jia aspires to open her own program in the future. Her diverse experience as a teacher, aunt, and babysitter has enriched her ability to guide children’s exploration with care and creativity. Ms. Jia’s teaching philosophy centers on kindness and understanding, recognizing that every child learns in their own unique way and at their own pace. She looks forward to supporting your child’s confidence and curiosity while building meaningful connections with our little buddies and their families.
Ms. Jade: Our Nurturing Guide for Little Learners at Brook Knoll Buddies. We are so happy to have Ms. Jade as a part of our Brook Knoll Buddies team! Ms. Jade began her early childhood education journey in Oakland at Merritt Community College and completed her Early Childhood Education credits at Cabrillo College before transferring to UCSC to study Sociology.
With a rich background in nannying and experience in play-based, Montessori, and Waldorf preschools and camps, Ms. Jade brings a wealth of knowledge and versatility to our program. Her expertise in home-based care allows her to create meaningful, nurturing experiences for children. Beyond the classroom, Ms. Jade is a certified birth doula and teaches swim lessons in the community, reflecting her commitment to supporting families and children in diverse ways.
At Brook Knoll Buddies, Ms. Jade is passionate about fostering a warm, inclusive environment where children can thrive through play, exploration, and creativity. She looks forward to inspiring your little buddies as they learn, grow, and flourish in our program.
Thank you for considering Brook Knoll Buddies. We look forward to sharing this exciting journey with your family, where every day is filled with fun, learning, and discovery!