Email Alex

Hi! I’m Alex, and I’m excited to be interning through the Bronco Leads program at Kazoo School this year. I’m looking forward to getting to know the Kazoo community and gaining experience both with students and behind the scenes.

I’m especially interested in working with children and learning more about the many pieces that help a nonprofit school thrive. During my internship, I’m excited to learn more about marketing and development while also finding ways to connect with students and contribute to the school community.

I’m looking forward to learning new things, helping wherever I’m needed, and being part of Kazoo this year!

Email Brian

I have 43 years of experience working in independent schools in Texas, Michigan, and New York, and I’m thrilled to be part of the Kazoo School community. In addition to my many years in independent education, I serve as Kazoo’s Engagement & Development Coordinator. I lead the Annual Fund, help build connections with our families, alumni, and broader community, and supervise our interns.

I also teach a Middle School finance elective, where I get to help students explore the real-world skills and ideas behind money, budgeting, and financial decision-making.

At Kazoo, I’m also happy to take on just about whatever project needs doing. In my spare time, I recently cleaned out the basement—and I’m always ready to jump in when someone asks, “Hey, Brian, could you…?” There’s usually a yes somewhere in there.

When I’m not at Kazoo, I’m a devoted husband, grandfather, and cat dad. And whenever I finally decide it’s time to leave Kazoo for the day, I suspect there will still be one more project for me to take on!

Kazoo School Faculty since 2019

Email Brynn

I am the parent of three Kazoo Kids- two alumni and one current student- and have been part of the Kazoo community for many years. I hold a Master’s in Social Work and have extensive experience working with children who have experienced trauma, as well as leading children’s programming in Chicago and Detroit. I also spent a year as a preschool teacher at Kazoo.

My professional experience, combined with my deep personal connection to the school, has strengthened my belief in the power of progressive, relationship-centered education. I am passionate about creating environments where children feel known, supported, challenged, and empowered to grow. I am honored to serve as Co-Head of School and to help lead Kazoo in continuing to nurture curious, compassionate, confident, and engaged learners.

Education

B.S. in Psychology from University of Michigan

Master’s in Social Service Administration from University of Chicago

Member of the Kazoo School Faculty since 2024

Christopher is one of those people who can jump in wherever he’s needed at Kazoo. He supports our Preschool, works as a floater across the school, and leads a Middle School elective. He especially enjoys spending time with our youngest Kazoo Kids, where his patience, playfulness, and ability to meet kids where they are really shine. As a Kazoo parent himself, Christopher knows our community from both sides and brings a genuine love of Kazoo to everything he does. Whether he’s helping a preschooler navigate the day, supporting an Upper Elementary project, or leading a Middle School elective, Christopher is always ready for the next adventure.

Kazoo School Faculty since 2021

Email Dara

I’m so excited to be returning for another year of discovery with Natural Learners! This is my fsixth year teaching. I enjoy sharing my love of nature, crafting, gardening, books, and community with my class. I’ve enjoyed previous careers as a part-time farmer, costume designer/technician, and zoo keeper! I like to travel with my family, watch and play sports, and snuggle with my cat, Uli.

Education

B.A. Art-emphasis in Ceramics, Minor in Interior Design (May 2003) from Minnesota State University Moorhead

Member of the Faculty since 2026

Darcy is so extorted to be a part of Dara’s group!. She bringing lots of previous experience working with young children and a genuine love of the preschool years. She knows that preschool is full of big discoveries, big feelings, muddy hands, and plenty of laughter—and she is excited to be part of it all. Darcy was absolutely giddy when she was offered the opportunity to join the Kazoo team, and that enthusiasm has carried right into the classroom. She brings warmth, energy, and a deep appreciation for helping young children feel confident, cared for, and ready to explore.

Member of the Kazoo School Faculty since 2025

Email Emily

Emily is back for her second year at Kazoo as our Supplemental Math Instructor, and we’re lucky to have her! Emily genuinely loves all things math and has a gift for making mathematical thinking engaging, approachable, and fun for students. This year, she is also stepping into the role of 8th Grade Advisor alongside Kamayia, giving her another opportunity to build meaningful relationships with our Middle School students.

When not teaching math, you can probably find Emily playing ultimate or exploring a trail. She coaches the ultimate team that practices at Kazoo and loves spending time outdoors .

Member of the Kazoo Faculty Since 2025

Email Emily

Hi, I’m Emily Kuder! I’ve been part of the Kazoo community for several years- first as a Kazoo parent and, most recently, as a Preschool teacher. This year, I’m excited to make the move from Preschool to Upper Elementary!

My experience in teaching, behavioral therapy, and homeschooling has given me a wide range of tools and perspectives that I’m excited to bring to my work with Upper Elementary students. I love getting to know each child as an individual, meeting them where they are, and helping them grow into confident, curious learners. I’m so excited for this next chapter at Kazoo and can’t wait to see what the year brings!

Education

B.A. Psychology (2004) Rhode Island College

Member of the Faculty since 2025

Email Emmy

Hi, I’m Emmy! I’m excited to be part of the Preschool team this year, teaching alongside Melissa. I’ve been part of the Kazoo community in a few different ways- as a Kazoo parent, a former Kazoo Spanish teacher, and an active member of the greater Kalamazoo community.

I love working with children and bringing energy, curiosity, and plenty of ideas to the classroom. My experiences both at Kazoo and beyond have given me a deep appreciation for the importance of relationships, community, and meeting kids where they are. I’m excited to spend this year exploring, playing, learning, and growing alongside our youngest Kazoo Kids!

Education

B.A. Art History, Spanish, Sociology from Kalamazoo College

Kazoo Faculty since 2021

Email Hannah

Since my own kindergarten education began at Kazoo School, I have been deeply influenced by my experiences as a Kazoo kid. During my time as a student here, I learned empathy, curiosity, self-confidence, honesty, commitment, and the importance of care—and had many amazing and challenging experiences in the classroom and in Kleinstuck. After Kazoo, I unschooled myself through high school and found college experiences that led me to grow as a writer and scholar focused on thinking critically about gender, culture, and social justice. In 2021, I joined the Kazoo faculty as a preschool teacher.

My educational philosophy and practice are guided by curiosity and connection. I am deeply committed to progressive education and teaching the whole child. I see students as creative problem solvers who learn actively and enthusiastically when they have agency in their learning and opportunities to connect their interests to the broader world. I am passionate about nature-based learning and love teaching at Kazoo where outdoor education is embraced and supported for all students.

When I’m not at Kazoo, you can find me wandering in the woods, reading, rock climbing, honing my photography skills, and making soup to share with friends and family.

Education

B.A. in Anthropology and Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies from The College of Wooster

Child Development Associate

My name is Jillian Kissel, and I’m excited to continue being part of the Kazoo School community! After completing my internship with the Kazoo administration this summer, I’m now working in the Extended Day program.

I’m an undergraduate student at Western Michigan University studying Political Science with a minor in Spanish. I’m entering my final year at Western and will graduate in May 2027.

I’m so happy to have the opportunity to keep working with Kazoo students. I’ve really enjoyed getting to know the kids and being part of their afternoons, and I’m looking forward to another year at Kazoo! If you see me around, don’t hesitate to say hello.

Member of the Faculty since 2025

I’m happy to be back at Kazoo School! I’m a Kazoo School alumnus, as is one of my siblings, and my youngest sibling is currently a Kazoo kid. So, Kazoo has been a part of my life for a long time.

This year, I’m excited to work in the Extended Day program and help out as a substitute in Preschool. I really enjoy spending time with kids and have a natural ability to connect with them. I’m looking forward to playing, exploring, and being part of the Kazoo community in a new way!

Member of the Kazoo School Faculty since 2025

Email Kamayia

Kamayia is in her second year at Kazoo, teaching Math to students in 5th–8th grade. She is a truly exceptional educator who brings warmth, enthusiasm, and a deep understanding of her students to the math classroom. She has a wonderful ability to make challenging concepts feel approachable while encouraging students to think deeply, ask questions, and trust themselves as mathematicians.

This year, Kamayia is also continuing as the 8th Grade Advisor, having guided this same group of students through 7th grade last year. As advisors, Kamayia and Emily help the 8th graders take on the many responsibilities that come with being the oldest students at Kazoo- from leading Friday All-School Assembly to planning and fundraising for their 8th Grade Trip. Kamayia knows this group well and is excited to support them as they make the most of their final year at Kazoo.

And, in exciting personal news, Kamayia got married this summer! We’re so happy to have her back for another year of learning, growing, leading, and making math happen at Kazoo.

Member of the Kazoo Faculty since 2024

Email Karissa

Guiding and supporting young people has always come naturally to her. Growing up, she often found herself helping teachers and group leaders with younger children, and caring for children remained a central part of her work until the pandemic. She brings that experience, patience, and genuine care for kids to Kazoo, where she is supporting our Extended Day program and serving as a floater this year. Whether she’s helping in the classroom, jumping into a new activity, or lending a hand wherever she’s needed, she is always ready to support our Kazoo Kids and the adults who work with them.

Kazoo Faculty since 2014

Email Kate

I am so happy to be back for my eleventh year teaching science at Kazoo School! We are in such a wonderful place to explore science and the environment. I am passionate about hands-on learning and making connections with young people.

A little about what got me here- I studied biology at Hope College. As a student, I had a couple of professors who were both inspiring educators and my mentors as a research assistant. This left me with no idea whether I wanted to focus on research or teaching after graduation, so I did both.

I spent many years working in the most amazing places as a wildlife field technician and as a science educator in outdoor schools all over the country. Eventually, I settled in Connecticut where I was a marine science educator and waterfront/sailing director for seven years. In 2014, I moved back to Michigan, closer to my family. When I found Kazoo, I couldn’t believe that I had the opportunity to teach experiential science in a school!

Outside of teaching, I love spending time with my husband, Rob, our son Nolan, and our sweet dog, Charlie. We like to hike and go on walks together, camp, and work in the garden. I love Michigan trips “up north” and to Lake Michigan. We really enjoy our Kalamazoo and Kazoo School communities!

Education

BS Biology, Hope College

Email Kayla

Hi! I’m Kayla, and I’m excited to be interning through the Bronco Leads program at Kazoo School this year. I’m a dance major. I love working with people, building community, and finding creative ways to connect with others.

I’m especially interested in working with children and learning more about the behind-the-scenes work that helps a non-profit school thrive. During my internship, I’m looking forward to gaining experience in marketing and development while also spending time with students and getting to know the Kazoo community.

I’m excited to learn, help out wherever I’m needed, and be part of Kazoo this year!

Member of the Faculty since 2026

Email Krista

Hello, everyone! I am so excited to start the new school year with you all!

Many of you already know me, as I have been part of the Kazoo community since fall 2024 as an Extended Day Facilitator. I have also been a Summer Session Counselor, preschool assistant teacher, and had the privilege of shadowing Nature Nate last spring.

While I could never fill Nature Nate’s shoes, I’m excited to carry forward the spirit of adventure and connection he brought to our outdoor program. I have some great plans for this school year and can’t wait to get started!

Faculty since 2018

Email Kelly

I’ve always loved being around and working with children, so teaching elementary school was a natural decision. Their inherent curiosity and enthusiasm brings me great joy. Once I learned about progressive education, I was hooked. It has been a dream to teach within a school that supports that method of teaching and learning, so teaching at Kazoo School is a dream come true.

I have taught in urban, rural, and suburban areas in Kalamazoo and in North Carolina, which has given me the opportunity to work with a diverse array of students. Those experiences have further solidified my commitment to progressive education. When the whole child is supported, they can move mountains.

Education

B.S. in Elementary Education and Spanish from Western Michigan University

Member of the Faculty since 2026

I’m so happy to be part of the Kazoo School community and to work with students in Extended Day! I’ve gotten to know Kazoo through my sibling, who is a Kazoo kid, and I’ve always loved the community and the way Kazoo works with children.

I’ve always wanted to become a teacher, so working with kids at Kazoo is a wonderful opportunity to learn and grow while doing something I really enjoy. I’m excited to spend time with students after the school day—playing, helping, exploring, and getting to know our Kazoo kids!

Member of the Faculty Since 2025

I’m excited to be back at Kazoo School for my second year as an Extended Day Facilitator. I’m a dance major, and I love bringing creativity, movement, and a little bit of fun into the time I spend with kids.

I really enjoy getting to know each student and seeing their personalities come out during Extended Day. I’m happy to be back for another year and look forward to more afternoons of playing, creating, exploring, and being part of the Kazoo community!

Member of the Kazoo School Faculty since 2024

Maya is a Kazoo alumna who has found her way back to the school, now in her third year as an Extended Day Facilitator. Maya attended Oberlin College and went on to teach Kindergarten in the Chicago area. She now works full-time in a remote role, but has intentionally made space in her schedule to continue doing what she loves- being around kids!

Maya brings her experience as a classroom teacher and her perspective as a former Kazoo Kid to Extended Day. She knows firsthand the joy, independence, and occasional chaos that come with being a Kazoo Kid, and she loves spending her afternoons playing, exploring, and connecting with students. We’re so happy to have one of our own back at Kazoo!

Kazoo School Faculty since 2017

Email Mel

Paolo Freire wrote that “Knowledge emerges only through invention and re-invention, through the restless, impatient, continuing, hopeful inquiry human beings pursue in the world, with the world, and with each other.” After teaching writing and literature at the university level and teaching at Kazoo School for six years, I have come to the understanding that a sense of community and critical co-investigation are essential to a successful classroom. My hope is for students to ask questions, to engage in dialogue, and to know that their voices are important. One of my goals in the classroom is for students to take ownership of their writing and to claim a place within the classroom and within a larger community of writers, readers, and citizens.

Apart from writing and reading, my interests include playing music, riding my bicycle, cooking, gardening, and kayaking.

Education

B.A., English Moorhead State University
M.A., English University of North Dakota
Ph.D., English Western Michigan University

Member of the Faculty Since 2026

Email Melissa

Hi everyone! I will be joining the Kazoo School community this fall as a preschool teacher! I graduated from Baker College with a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education. I am very much looking forward tWe are so happy to welcome her to Kazoo! With a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education from Baker College and loads of experience working with young children, she brings a wealth of knowledge, warmth, and enthusiasm to our Preschool program. This year, she joins Emmy in the Preschool, where she is excited to build on her years of teaching experience and get to know our youngest Kazoo Kids.

She has a wonderful understanding of young children and the many ways they learn, grow, play, and explore. We’re thrilled she’s here and can’t wait to see all the ways she will become part of the Kazoo community!

Member of the faculty since 2020

Email Niki

Niki has a real gift for making kids feel known. She takes the time to get to know each student- what makes them laugh, what gets them excited, what feels hard, and what helps them feel confident. Her classroom is a place where kids can be themselves, take chances, make mistakes, and try again.

Niki believes that school is about more than academics. Of course, her students learn a lot, but they are also learning how to be kind, thoughtful, resilient people. She talks often about having a growth mindset and helps students see that not knowing something yet is actually a pretty exciting place to start. Mistakes aren't failures in Niki's classroom; they're part of figuring things out.

She also uses the Superflex curriculum to help students understand their own brains and learn how to navigate the many social challenges that come with being a kid.

Niki brings a lot of warmth, humor, and heart to her classroom. She has high expectations for her students, but she also knows that learning doesn't always happen in a straight line. Sometimes you need to try again, ask for help, take a break, laugh about it, and give it another go.

At the end of the day, Niki isn't just teaching her students how to read, write, think, and solve problems. She's helping them learn how to be good humans, take up space in the world, and keep growing into the people they are becoming.

Education

MA, Educational Leadership, WMU

Member of the Kazoo Faculty Since 2024

Email Pat

We’re happy to have him back at Kazoo for his third year as our Art teacher! He has been part of the Kazoo community in many ways over the years- as an art and photography teacher in Extended Day and Summer programs, as a Kazoo parent, and as part of our school photography team.

A professional photographer and artist in the Kalamazoo community, his work centers on art and narrative storytelling. He loves finding ways to connect creativity, real-world experiences, and learning, and he brings that perspective to students of all ages. When he’s not making art or teaching, you’ll likely find him talking about TTRPGs (especially D&D), science fiction, books, or music—or traveling with his family and discovering something new. We’re always glad to have him bringing his creativity, curiosity, and considerable nerdiness back to Kazoo!

Education

Associates in Applied Arts and Sciences, Kalamazoo Valley

Kazoo School Faculty since 2022

Email Paul

I've always enjoyed being active and being outdoors, which comes from growing up on my parents’ farm. I remember spending the whole day outside, whether it was building forts in the woods or camping during the summer and sledding in the winter. As a parent, I've tried to instill that enjoyment of nature with my children. Needless to say, I'm thrilled to have found a school that incorporates so much outdoor time into their teaching. I know I would have loved to attend Kazoo School growing up and my children are enjoying their time here.

My previous work was dedicated to the science of fitness and physical education. I worked with individuals on their own fitness journeys and with groups of teens to build self esteem through positive physical fitness activities. I know that movement, physical activity and outdoor learning are essential to developing healthy, happy young people.

Prior to coming to Kazoo School, I was a full-time Dad with my two kids. As I worked through my kids’ various struggles I learned a lot about patience and meeting the unique needs of all children. When in the classroom I see each child as an individual on their own educational and social emotional journey.

I began my teaching experience at Kazoo as a substitute teacher and a classroom aide, and then as a full-time assistant and intern in the Primary Classroom (Kindergarten/First Grade). In addition to growing my classroom management skills during this time, I have also been trained in trauma informed teaching practices, structured literacy, restorative justice, and the Engage New York mathematics curriculum.

My educational philosophy can be summed up with this simple but meaningful phrase, “You need to reach me, before you can teach me.” As an educator, I strive to make meaningful connections with my students so they can be seen and honored for who they are as individuals. I also bring a calm, patient, and understanding presence to the classroom. This helps kids feel safe so they can do the hard work of learning new things.

Education

BS in Digital Animation and Game Design from Ferris State University

Associates in Exercise Science and Technology from Oakland Community College

Kazoo School Faculty since 1996

Email Rose

Prior to moving to Kalamazoo in 1996, I lived and taught in Eugene, Oregon and Madison, Wisconsin. I graduated from Kalamazoo College in 1986, having completed an internship teaching at Stone Environmental Schools in Maine and Massachusetts. I received a Fulbright Scholarship for Teaching English, which took me to Strasbourg, France, where I lived and taught English to high school students at the Lycee Louis Pasteur. Upon returning to the U.S. I picked up my outdoor education interests to teach at another residential environmental school, Nature’s Classroom in Connecticut.

I graduated from the University of Wisconsin – Madison in 1990 with a Master’s degree in Social Work, specializing in Children, Youth and Families, and in 1992 with a second Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education.

When I moved back to Kalamazoo, I began teaching at Kazoo School in a 1st/2nd grade basegroup. Over the years, I have taught all levels from 1st through 8th grade at Kazoo School and currently teach Upper Elementary students.

Kazoo School has been a perfect fit for my progressive teaching style and philosophy. I see students as active participants, problem solvers, and planners of their own learning. My role is to guide the children on their individual journeys as they become thoughtful problem solvers, motivated critical thinkers, active leaders, respectful collaborators, kind friends, and lifelong learners.

Education

B.A. in Psychology from Kalamazoo College

B.A. in Elementary Education from the University of Wisconsin

M.A. in Social Work from the University of Wisconsin

Kazoo School Faculty since 2021

Email Ruth

Ruth is the backbone of the Kazoo School office! Her paperwork game is unmatched, and she keeps the Front Desk, Extended Day, recess, and countless behind-the-scenes details running smoothly. She also happens to be something of an encyclopedia of childhood illnesses.

In addition to coordinating Extended Day, running the Front Desk and recess, Ruth teaches an elective and works with our Middle School students on the yearbook. She has a particular love for blending traditional and new media art techniques and enjoys helping young people connect with meaningful, relevant artistic experiences through graphic design, illustration, photography, animation, and video production.

Outside of Kazoo, Ruth loves cats, reading, and spending time outdoors. No matter how busy the Front Desk gets, she always makes time to connect with students and help them find their creative spark.

Education

Associates in Animation/Time Based Media KVCC, 2014

Kazoo School Faculty since 2008

Email Sonita

“Education is a journey, not a race.” – Rudolf Steiner
“Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself.” – John Dewey

These two quotes have always been a big part of how I think about education. I believe children need a place where they have ownership over their learning, where their ideas are listened to, and where they know their thoughts matter.

When you walk into a Kazoo classroom, you might notice that learning doesn’t always look like what you remember from school. You’ll see teachers listening closely to students, following up on questions that come out of nowhere, documenting a connection a child just made, or noticing what sparks their curiosity. We pay attention to what kids are interested in and what they are trying to figure out, and we use those things to help guide their learning.

One of the things I am most passionate about is literacy. I love teaching children to read and watching the moment when something finally clicks—the little look that says, “Wait…I can DO this!” Learning to read takes a lot of practice, but I don’t think it has to mean sitting still and filling out worksheets. I love making literacy hands-on whenever I can. We build words, move things around, play with sounds, use games and movement, and find lots of ways to get our hands and brains involved. There is something pretty magical about watching a child go from working so hard to sound out a word to suddenly picking up a book and reading it on their own.

I also love that at Kazoo, learning doesn’t have to happen inside four walls. Our pavilions and the woods are an important part of the way we learn. Kids might be reading, writing, doing math, having a conversation, working on a project, or following a question outdoors. The woods become a place to observe, wonder, investigate, move, take risks, and make connections. Learning outside gives children room to be curious and engaged in a different way, and I think there is something pretty special about watching a group of kids turn a walk through the woods into a science lesson, a story, a math problem, or simply an opportunity to notice the world around them.

Every child learns in their own way, and part of our job is to help children become intrinsically motivated learners—kids who are curious, ask questions, want to know how things work, and keep looking for answers. That, to me, is a Kazoo School kid.

And I should know! I am a Kazoo School kid myself. My brother started at Kazoo halfway through his kindergarten year—the same year I was born. Some of my earliest memories are of the Kazoo community, and my mom and stepdad even met through Kazoo School. I’ve found throughout my life that all roads seem to lead back to Kazoo—not Rome!

Outside of school, I’m spending time with my grand-kitty and enjoying the great outdoors. I really do think Kazoo is a pretty special place for kids and families to grow and learn together, and I’m so glad you’re here. Enjoy the journey!

Education

B.S. in Elementary Education from Western Michigan University

Kazoo School faculty since 2021

Email Steve

I previously taught natural science at Kazoo as part of a five-year collaboration between Kazoo School and Western Michigan University, working with students in 4th–8th grades each week. I’m especially excited to be back as Kazoo continues to embrace outdoor education and the incredible learning opportunities right outside our doors.

I’m a naturalist at heart, and I believe there is something to learn everywhere we look. I love helping students notice the science happening all around them—from the smallest insect to the trees, plants, animals, weather, and ecosystems that make up our natural world. I’m a big believer in the teachable moment, and I’ll happily stop whatever we’re doing when there is something interesting to observe, investigate, or wonder about. My goal is to make science interesting, real, and connected to the places where students live and learn.

And, of course, there’s Fire Friday! Each Friday comes complete with my famous “It’s Friday!” dance. It’s one of my favorite Kazoo traditions.

I’m a New York native from the upper Hudson River Valley and a die-hard, naturalized Michigander after many years of exploring these beautiful peninsulas. I’ve lived in Kalamazoo for 33 years and have been happily married to my wife, Carol, for 37 years. We have two grown sons, one a hydrogeologist in New York and the other a statistician living and working in Michigan.

I’ve been involved in the sciences my entire life. I attended Michigan State University, where I earned Bachelor of Science degrees in wildlife management and animal science and a master’s degree in poultry science. My career has included poultry production and research, as well as 25 years of horticultural experience in wholesale and retail greenhouse production, specializing in Michigan native plants.

I retired from Western Michigan University’s Landscape Management department, where I served as the natural areas manager and oversaw the Kleinstuck and Asylum Lake preserves for 11 years. During my time at WMU, I had the opportunity to work with school groups throughout the Kalamazoo area. From preschoolers to college students, campers to professionals, I’ve always found great joy in sharing what I’ve learned with others.

I’m particularly happy to be at Kazoo, where students have so many opportunities to learn outdoors. The natural world is an incredible classroom, and I look forward to helping students explore it, ask questions, make discoveries, and carry that curiosity with them throughout their education.

Member of the Faculty since 2026

Email Viviana

¡Hola! I’m Viviana Plaza. I was born in Puerto Rico and have been teaching Spanish for more than 20 years. I’m so excited to join the Kazoo School community as your Spanish teacher!

One of the things I love most about teaching is getting to know what students are excited to learn. I want to know whether a student wants to become more confident speaking Spanish, improve their reading, learn new vocabulary, or simply have fun exploring another language and culture. I believe language learning should be meaningful, engaging, and connected to the interests of each student.

And who knows? Maybe one day I’ll be able to talk to you all in Spanish! ¡Bienvenidos a mi clase de español!

Outside of school, I’m a proud mom of two sons and a grandmother to two wonderful grandchildren. I’m looking forward to getting to know the students and families at Kazoo and sharing my love of Spanish with our community.

Member of the Faculty since 2026

’m a Kazoo School alumna, so coming back to Kazoo feels a little like coming home! This year, I’m back to help Melissa in the afternoons with our Preschool students, and I’ll also be helping out with Extended Day.

I’ve always loved being around kids, and working with children comes pretty naturally to me. I love their curiosity, energy, and sense of adventure. I’m excited to spend my afternoons playing, exploring, helping, and being part of the Kazoo community again!