Meet Our Infant Team

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Yellow Bumblebee, Infant Teacher 

Olga joined Mini Einstein's Learning Center in 2016, bringing a wealth of experience and a heartfelt commitment to nurturing young minds. Originally from Uzbekistan, she moved to the United States six years ago and is a devoted wife and mother to her daughter, Ulyana.

Olga finds immense joy in working with children, knowing that she plays a vital role in their learning and growth. For over four years, she has served as an infant teacher at Mini Einstein's, where she has cherished every moment spent with her students. Her passion for early childhood education fuels her desire to create a warm and engaging environment, and she looks forward to many more years of making a positive impact in the lives of children at MELC.

Yellow Bumblebee, Infant Teacher

Keara joined Mini Einstein's Learning Center in 2018, initially stepping in as a support teacher at Mini Einstein's. During her time there, she gained valuable experience working with children of all ages, from infants to five-year-olds. For over three years, she has thrived as an infant teacher, cherishing the exciting moments that come with nurturing the youngest learners.

Keara is passionate about creating a loving and engaging environment for infants and is eager to get to know both the children and their families. Her dedication to early childhood education shines through in her interactions, as she focuses on fostering growth and development in each child.

In addition to her work at MELC, Keara is pursuing her Bachelor’s degree in Business, balancing her academic ambitions with her commitment to education. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, drawing, dancing, and shopping, always looking for new adventures and creative outlets. Keara looks forward to continuing her journey at MELC, making a positive impact in the lives of the infants she cares for.

Red Ladybugs, Infant Teacher

Lucia joined Mini Einstein's Learning Center in 2024, bringing her vibrant energy and dedication to nurturing young minds. Having lived in Washington for five years, she is also a proud mother to her four-month-old daughter. Known for her positivity and patience, Lucia creates an atmosphere where children feel valued and encouraged to explore.

With over four years of experience in childcare, Lucia has worked with children of all ages, from infants to those up to four years old. Her background includes babysitting and serving as a childcare provider in a home daycare, equipping her with a diverse skill set tailored to meet the unique needs of each child. Lucia believes in balancing structure with flexibility, ensuring that children feel supported while having the freedom to discover the world around them at their own pace.

In her free time, Lucia enjoys spending quality moments with her daughter, diving into books, savoring delicious meals, listening to music, and keeping her space tidy. She is excited to bring her creativity and passion for learning through play to MELC, where she looks forward to fostering growth and joy in every child she encounters.

Infant Support Team, Floater

Brooklyn joined Mini Einstein's Learning Center in 2025.  She is a floater at Mini Einstein's Learning Center and has recently been working with the infants. Brooklyn is thrilled to be part of the Mini Einstein's community and to play a role in the early learning journeys of the children.

With nearly a year of experience working with young children, Brooklyn is passionate about creating a fun, creative, and safe environment where children can grow, explore, and become their best selves. She has a background in child development and is especially dedicated to supporting children's social, emotional, and cognitive growth through play and hands-on learning. Building strong, meaningful relationships with both the children and their families is at the heart of her approach.

Outside of Mini Einstein's, Brooklyn enjoys hiking with friends and family, watching sunsets, swimming, shopping, and exploring new places. She also loves spending time playing with her animals.

Brooklyn looks forward to getting to know all the wonderful families and children at Mini Einstein’s!

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Violet Vipers, Waddler Teacher

Mara joined Mini Einstein's Learning Center in 2023, bringing with her a deep appreciation for the diverse experiences that shape children’s lives. Having lived in the Pacific Northwest for the past 35 years, she hails from a large family, being the fourth oldest among eight siblings. Growing up in a household that fostered children, Mara developed a profound understanding of compassion and empathy for kids from all backgrounds.

Her journey in childcare began in her teenage years when she volunteered at her church nursery, igniting her passion for nurturing young minds. Mara's experiences as an exchange student in Japan enriched her cultural perspective and broadened her horizons, fostering her love for diversity and learning.

Outside of her professional life, Mara enjoys attending events like Emerald City Comic Con and Sakura Con, where she celebrates her interests in pop culture and creativity. She also loves embarking on outdoor adventures with her family and friends, cherishing the time spent exploring the beauty of the Pacific Northwest.

Mara is excited to bring her unique experiences and vibrant spirit to MELC, where she looks forward to fostering a loving and inclusive environment for every child in her care.

Violet Vipers, Waddler Teacher

Kat joined Mini Einstein's Learning Center in 2025.  Meet Ms. Kat! Since joining Mini Einstein’s Learning Center, she has found her home in the Violet Vipers class alongside Ms. Mara. Before coming to MELC, Ms. Kat worked as a behavior technician at a center specializing in Autism and related disabilities, where she supported students in both small group and one-on-one settings to help them thrive.

With a lifelong love for babysitting and a deep passion for working with children, Ms. Kat brings warmth, patience, and dedication to the classroom every day. Outside of work, she enjoys fishing, reading, and creating art.

Ms. Kat is excited to continue growing in her teaching journey and looks forward to building strong connections with the children and families at Mini Einstein’s!

Orange Tigers, Waddler Teacher

Mayra joined Mini Einstein's Learning Center in 2024 and is absolutely thrilled to be part of this vibrant community, where she has the opportunity to teach your wonderful children. Originally from Mexico and raised in the lively city of Seattle, she embraces the beauty of diverse cultures and experiences.

As a proud mother of three—two energetic boys and a creative girl—her life is filled with laughter and adventure. In her free time, she loves diving into captivating books, experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen, and having fun at trampoline parks with her kids. These moments not only strengthen their family bond but also inspire her to create engaging and playful learning experiences for your children.

She firmly believes that strong communication is the cornerstone of successful early childhood education. Establishing a positive and collaborative teacher-parent relationship is essential, and she is dedicated to ensuring that every child feels valued and supported. Her goal is to cultivate a nurturing and stimulating environment where curiosity flourishes and children feel free to explore and express themselves.

Excited about the incredible journey ahead, she looks forward to building joyful and enriching connections with your little ones, fostering their growth, and celebrating their achievements along the way. Thank you for entrusting her with your child's education!

Magenta Monkey, Waddler Teacher 

Briseida joined Mini Einstein’s Learning Center in 2023, bringing a wealth of experience from her time as a babysitter and her volunteer work with children. Her volunteer efforts have focused on helping kids excel in extracurricular activities and fostering a supportive environment where they can learn and grow together.

As a proud mother to a daughter born on Christmas Eve in 2022, Briseida understands the importance of nurturing young minds. She is passionate about creating a warm, engaging atmosphere where children feel safe to explore and express themselves.

In her free time, Briseida loves to embrace the outdoors, whether it's going for walks, hiking, or simply enjoying nature with her family and friends. She believes that outdoor experiences can significantly enhance a child’s learning and development.

Briseida is excited to be part of the MELC community, where she looks forward to building meaningful connections with both the children and their families, fostering a love for learning and encouraging personal growth.

 Magenta Monkey, Waddler Teacher 

Ivonne joined Mini Einstein’s Learning Center in 2025.  Ivonne has a diverse background, transitioning into early childhood education after working in veterinary care and sales. She completed her internship at Jóvenes por Oaxaca, tutoring children in reading, writing, and math. In 2022, she taught courses for children ages 2 to 12 at the municipal library in Mitla, Oaxaca, and later worked with the Secretariat of Public Education of Oaxaca, focusing on document creation and event coordination.

Ivonne is patient and attentive to children’s emotional and developmental needs, offering constructive feedback to families and adapting to various work environments. She is committed to ongoing professional development through courses and workshops.

Outside of work, Ivonne enjoys reading, spending time with her nine rescued dogs, and enjoying quality time with family and friends. She also loves fiction as a form of escape and relaxation.

Coral Cats, Waddler Teacher 

Janessa joined Mini Einstein’s Learning Center in 2024, bringing with her a rich background in working with children. Born and raised in a small town in Eastern Washington, she began her journey in childcare at the age of 12 as a babysitter, continuing until she was 16. Following that, she spent over two years working in an after-school program, and she recently gained valuable experience as a nanny.

Janessa previously served as MELC's Magenta Monkey teacher and has now returned as the Coral Cat teacher, eager to make a positive impact on her students' lives.

In her free time, Janessa loves spending quality moments with her family and going for walks with her dog. She enjoys hitting the gym and embarking on scenic drives to discover new places for relaxation and adventure. One of her favorite pastimes is watching the sunset at the beach, where she finds peace and inspiration.

Janessa is excited to continue her journey at MELC, nurturing a love for learning and fostering a supportive environment for all her students.

Coral Cats, Waddler Teacher 

Dunia joined Mini Einstein's Learning Center in 2024. Dunia is proud to be a part of the Mini Einstein’s Learning Center team and feels truly happy working with each and every child. Her journey in early childhood education began in the daycare kitchen as a cook, and soon after, she began working as an afternoon floater—where her passion for working with children really began to shine.

Dunia’s experience caring for children started in her teenage years, when she looked after her younger brothers and cousins. After moving to the U.S., she continued caring for her younger relatives on weekends, which inspired her to explore a career in early childhood education. Now, as a team member at Mini Einstein’s, she’s excited to be growing in a field she truly loves.

She has a natural affection for children, especially as she helps care for her 1-year-old sister and 3-year-old niece every evening after work. Her love for kids shines through in everything she does.

Outside of work, Dunia enjoys listening to music, dancing, and spending time with her playful 1-year-old dog, Rex. Her joyful, energetic personality brings warmth and positivity to the classroom every day!

Black Penguins, Preschool Teacher

Burgundy Butterflies, Preschool teacher 

Shapla joined Mini Einstein’s Learning Center in 2024, bringing with her a Master's degree in Psychology and four years of teaching experience in both elementary education and specialty schools. Her diverse background equips her with a unique understanding of child development and learning styles.

Passionate about nurturing young minds, Shapla enjoys spending time with children, creating engaging and enriching experiences in the classroom. Outside of her professional life, she has a variety of hobbies, including singing, dancing, reading, and traveling to explore new sights and cultures.

As a devoted mother to one daughter, Shapla values family time and embraces opportunities for shared adventures. She is excited to contribute her knowledge and enthusiasm to the MELC community, fostering a love of learning in her students.

Pink Flamingos, Preschool Teacher 

Brandiann joined Mini Einstein’s Learning Center in 2015, initially embarking on her journey as a parent when her children attended the center as toddlers nearly ten years ago. Before becoming a teacher at MELC, she worked in nursing, specializing in dementia, traumatic brain injury, and hospice care. This career shift has allowed Brandiann to focus her passion on nurturing and guiding children in the early stages of their lives.

In her first two years at MELC, Brandiann taught toddlers, and she now delights in working with children of all ages. She truly values the sense of community at MELC, where everyone feels like family.

Brandiann expresses her gratitude, saying, “I trusted the care of my children to MELC, and I thank you for doing the same with yours.” She is excited to continue making a positive impact in the lives of her students and their families.

Silver Foxes, Preschool Teacher

Lisa joined Mini Einstein's Learning Center in 2021.  She began her journey in the Blue Peacocks class and is now the teacher for the Silver Foxes. With over 20 years of experience in childcare, Lisa has held various roles, including support staff, cook, lead teacher, and assistant director. Her passion for working with children began in high school and has only grown over the years.

Lisa holds an associate degree in Early Childhood Education and has completed numerous trainings focused on child interactions, safe sleep practices, and more. She is dedicated to creating a nurturing environment where children can thrive.

In her free time, Lisa enjoys reading, singing, and engaging in crafts—activities that bring her joy and fulfillment. Above all, she cherishes the moments spent hugging and snuggling her grandsons, which are her happiest times.

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Support Teacher - Floater 

Neha joined Mini Einstein’s Learning Center in 2022 and brings a rich background in education and childcare. She is the proud mother of three children, aged between 26 and 33, and has one sister. With nearly five years of experience in childcare, Neha has also previously worked as a tutor and math teacher in private schools, showcasing her versatility and commitment to education.

She holds a Bachelor's degree in Education and is fluent in Hindi, Sindhi, and Marathi, which allows her to connect with a diverse range of families. In her free time, Neha enjoys listening to music and cherishing moments spent with her family.

Neha is passionate about fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment for her students at MELC, and she looks forward to making a positive impact in their lives.

Support Team-Floater

Arya joined Mini Einstein’s Learning Center in 2024, bringing valuable experience from her time working at a church daycare center, where she developed her passion for early childhood education. Originally born in India and adopted at the age of two, Arya’s unique background informs her empathetic approach to nurturing and supporting children.

As a proud cat owner of two wonderful feline companions, Arya finds joy in sharing her home with her pets, often involving them in her playful and creative activities. In her free time, she enjoys dancing, which allows her to express herself and stay active, as well as hiking, where she loves to explore the beauty of nature and enjoy the tranquility it brings.

In addition to her love for the outdoors and the arts, Arya is dedicated to fostering a positive and engaging learning environment for her students. She believes in the power of play-based learning and aims to inspire curiosity and a love of exploration in her classroom.

Excited to be part of the MELC community, Arya looks forward to building meaningful relationships with her students and their families while encouraging a lifelong love of learning.

Support Team-Floater

Sara joined Mini Einstein’s Learning Center in 2019 after relocating from California, where she quickly fell in love with the beauty and culture of Washington. Currently residing in Lake Stevens with her boyfriend Nick, she eagerly anticipates new adventures in her life and career.

With over a year of experience teaching 4- to 5-year-olds in California, Sara is thrilled to return to this age group at MELC. She is actively pursuing her Bachelor’s degree in Child Development, with the ultimate goal of teaching kindergarten upon graduation. Her passion for working with children stems from their innate curiosity about the world, which makes every teaching moment an exciting opportunity for exploration and learning.

Outside of her professional life, Sara enjoys relaxing at home with loved ones and staying active at the gym. She looks forward to this upcoming year, eager to build connections with her students and their families while fostering a joyful and engaging learning environment.
 

Support Team, Floater 

Fiona joined Mini Einstein’s Learning Center in 2024. Originally from Hong Kong, she has navigated a dynamic life, moving back and forth between the States and Hong Kong for various personal and professional reasons. With over ten years of experience in the clinical research industry, Fiona transitioned to the childcare field after the birth of her son.

When her son started preschool, Fiona embraced new challenges by becoming a certified behavior technician, working with children with autism before joining MELC as a floater. Her diverse background in both research and childcare enriches her approach to nurturing young minds.

In her free time, Fiona enjoys spending quality moments with her family, who share a love for food and experimenting with new recipes at home. Additionally, she delights in clam digging and oystering when the season is right, making the most of the great outdoors.

Fiona is excited to be part of the MELC community and looks forward to connecting with her students and their families while fostering a positive learning environment.

Support Team, Floater

Meena joined Mini Einstein’s Learning Center in 2024, bringing a wealth of experience in education and a strong academic background. She holds a Master's degree in Environmental Biotechnology and a Bachelor's degree in Education from India, where she spent six years teaching biology to middle and high school students.

After moving to the USA following her marriage, Meena became a proud mother to a vibrant six-year-old boy. Prior to joining MELC, she worked as an after-care teacher and a floater in a Montessori school in Bothell, where she further developed her passion for nurturing young minds.

Meena is dedicated to fostering children's growth and helping them strengthen their abilities for a brighter future. In her free time, she enjoys playful moments with her dog, Charity, and values the joy and companionship they share.

Excited to be part of the MELC community, Meena looks forward to making meaningful connections with her students and their families while inspiring a love of learning.

Support Team, Floater 

Joanna joined Mini Einstein’s Learning Center in 2024, bringing with her a rich background in education and community service. Born and raised in the Philippines, she developed a passion for working with children early on, volunteering as a teacher at her church during her teenage years.

Joanna holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Social Work and is dedicated to helping marginalized communities, particularly youth and children. She served as a volunteer Community Development Worker at a nonprofit organization in the Philippines for five years, where she made a significant impact in her community. Additionally, she spent four years as an online English tutor for a Japanese company, further honing her teaching skills.

In her free time, Joanna enjoys traveling and immersing herself in new cultures, as well as reading books that broaden her perspectives. She is excited to be part of the MELC community, where she looks forward to creating meaningful connections with her students and their families.

Support Team, Floater 

 Dabria joined Mini Einstein’s Learning Center in 2024, hailing from Palm Springs, California. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Music and is currently pursuing her Master's in Library and Information Science. Dabria's journey in working with children began in 2021 when she traveled to South Korea, where she spent a year as an English teacher at a private school.In addition to her teaching experience, Dabria served as a Program Lead for an after-school program for a year and a half, further enriching her skills in child development and education.Passionate about learning, Dabria enjoys exploring different cultures and trying a variety of cuisines. An avid reader, she has a particular fondness for fantasy and science fiction novels. Dabria looks forward to bringing her diverse experiences and enthusiasm for education to the MELC community. 

Support Team, Provail Program 

Eberechi is originally from Brazil and has nearly seven years of experience working with children, including those on the autism spectrum. She is passionate about creating meaningful, supportive relationships with young learners and is committed to fostering inclusive environments. Her fluency in Portuguese, English, Spanish, and American Sign Language allows her to connect with children and families from a wide range of backgrounds.

Currently pursuing a degree in Chemistry, Eberechi is deeply curious and values continuous learning, particularly in areas related to science, culture, and human development. In her spare time, she enjoys music, reading, spending time in nature, and learning about animals.

Eberechi’s work is guided by values that closely align with the mission of PROVAIL—supporting individuals with disabilities in living self-directed, fulfilling lives. She is proud to be part of a community that champions accessibility, inclusion, and empowerment. Founded in 1942 by mothers seeking better opportunities for their children with disabilities, PROVAIL has remained a leader in advancing inclusive practices across the Puget Sound region for over 70 years.

Support Team, Floater

Katlyn, known as Kat, joined Mini Einstein’s Learning Center in 2025.

School Chef, Kitchen Manager 

Ki joined Mini Einstein’s Learning Center in 2020 and brings a vibrant personality and a love for the outdoors to his role. Born and raised in Las Vegas, Nevada, he has a diverse range of interests, including Pokémon cards, Spiderman, painting, and cooking.

With approximately six years of experience in the food industry, Ki is passionate about introducing children to tasty and nutritious meals. He aims to expand their culinary horizons by offering healthy snacks and meals that they may not encounter at home. Ki is excited to share his knowledge of food with his students, ensuring they enjoy delightful and well-balanced meals every day.

Eager to engage with the children, Ki looks forward to creating a fun and enriching dining experience that fosters a love for healthy eating.

Kitchen Assistant

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Owner, Program Director

Samantha founded and established Mini Einstein’s Learning Center to serve her community with dedication and passion. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Central Washington University and is the proud mother of three young children: Harrison, Xena, and Lilly.

Outside of her professional commitments, Samantha cherishes spending quality time with her family. She enjoys cooking delicious meals and embraces the great outdoors through glamping and camping adventures. Her commitment to education and family drives her mission to create a nurturing and enriching environment at MELC.

Owner

William, along with his wife, founded and established Mini Einstein’s Learning Center in 2013 after retiring from a distinguished career in the Army. Committed to lifelong learning, he has pursued further education and holds degrees in gunsmithing, machining, and programming.

In his personal life, William values quality time with his wonderful wife and their three amazing children. Together, they create lasting memories and foster a strong family bond, reflecting his dedication to both his family and the community at MELC.

Assistant Director

Janice began her journey with Mini Einstein’s Learning Center in 2011 as a support teacher, eventually transitioning to a preschool teacher before joining the management team in 2013. She holds an Associate of Arts degree and is currently pursuing her Bachelor’s degree in Human Development through Washington State University Global Campus.

Outside of her professional responsibilities, Janice loves spending quality time with her family and cats. Her commitment to both education and family enriches her role at MELC, where she continues to make a positive impact in the lives of children and their families.

Program Supervisor

Haley began her journey with Mini Einstein’s Learning Center in 2011 as a toddler teacher, later transitioning to a pre-K teacher before joining the management team in 2019. Her diverse background includes four years of service as a youth and NGO developer with the U.S. Peace Corps, along with extensive experience in social services, education, and youth development.

Haley holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Seattle University and a Master’s degree in Education from Eastern Washington University. As every child’s biggest advocate, she is dedicated to supporting families during the crucial first eight years of a child's life. She believes that each child has unique developmental needs and interests, and that meaningful interactions are key to their learning.

Outside of work, Haley is a proud mother of two beautiful children. She is also an avid volleyball player and animal lover, and enjoys solving puzzles, reading for pleasure, and traveling to new destinations.

Operations Manager  

Ashley joined Mini Einstein’s Learning Center in 2018 and has been affectionately known as “Ms. Ashley” for over 15 years. Before transitioning to childcare, she was a dance studio owner and instructor for 13 years. She recently earned her Associate of Arts degree in Early Childhood Education and holds a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where she studied both dance and history.

Passionate about movement and creativity, Ashley believes that children weren’t meant to sit still, and she is excited to continue working with kids as they grow and develop. Outside of MELC, she loves exploring new places in the Pacific Northwest and traveling, particularly to the Caribbean and Europe. Ashley also enjoys watching her daughter, Madison (named after her alma mater), as she discovers her own interests in hockey, swimming, baking, and drawing.

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Closing Supervisor

Flora joined Mini Einstein’s Learning Center in 2022. Before this, she worked as a Spanish interpreter and tutor at Refugee and Immigrant Services of Northwest from 2019 to 2022, where she supported families in navigating educational and community resources. She holds an Associate's degree in General Education and a degree in Nutrition, which reflects her commitment to both education and health.

Flora has a passion for yoga, finding it a wonderful way to stay centered and promote well-being. She enjoys singing in Spanish, often incorporating music into her interactions with children to foster a joyful learning environment. A talented cook, she loves preparing traditional Mexican dishes, sharing her culinary heritage with friends and family.

In her free time, Flora enjoys creating Huichol jewelry, a craft that showcases the intricate techniques of the Huichol tribes in Mexico. She also loves spending time outdoors, exploring the beauty of the Pacific Northwest, and engaging in community activities that celebrate cultural diversity.

Flora is excited to bring her unique background and skills to MELC, where she looks forward to inspiring and nurturing the next generation.

Closing Supervisor

Hailey joined Mini Einstein’s Learning Center in 2024. A proud alumna of the University of Idaho, she earned her degrees in Criminology and Psychology, delving into subjects such as human development and family inequality, which she found deeply rewarding. With a long-standing passion for childcare, Hailey is excited to embark on her journey at MELC, where she can make a positive impact on young lives.

In addition to her dedication to childcare, Hailey is an enthusiastic volleyball player, having played for a decade before transitioning to coaching youth teams for three years. This experience has enriched her understanding of teamwork and leadership, skills she brings to her work with children.

Outside of her professional pursuits, Hailey is an avid reader who enjoys immersing herself in a variety of genres. She shares her home with her spirited French Bulldog, Dexter, who brings joy and laughter to her daily life. Hailey looks forward to building connections with the families at MELC and fostering a nurturing environment for the children she works with.

Administrative Supervisor  

Leslie joined Mini Einstein’s Learning Center in 2022. Originally from Washington, she spent 15 years living in California before returning to her home state. With a background as a youth development professional at the Boys and Girls Club, Leslie has extensive experience in childcare, including roles as a nanny and daycare teacher, as well as providing babysitting services for friends and family. Her passion for childcare stems from her desire to inspire children and help them explore their interests and passions.

In addition to her work with children, Leslie has a love for pets and enjoys spending time with her two dogs. She is a huge fan of Disney movies, finding joy in their magic and storytelling. In her free time, she often embarks on adventures, exploring local parks, hiking trails, and new eateries, always eager to discover hidden gems in her community.

Leslie is also certified in Makeup Artistry and has a keen interest in the beauty industry, often experimenting with new techniques and trends. Looking ahead, she aims to further her education in early childhood development, business, and cosmetology, aspiring to blend her creativity with her passion for nurturing young minds.

As a dedicated caregiver, Leslie believes in the importance of creating a supportive and engaging environment for children, where they can thrive and develop their unique talents. She is excited to be part of the MELC community and to contribute to the growth and development of the children she works with.

Behavior Specialist 

Joined Mini Einstein's Learning Center in 2024, Taylor is a dedicated professional with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Central Washington University. She gained valuable experience as a classroom assistant at Head Start in Ellensburg and spent two years working with the Department of Children, Youth, and Families in Everett. Her education and background have ignited her passion for supporting children and families in the community, and she looks forward to building relationships with the families of Lynnwood.

In her free time, Taylor enjoys reading, hiking, and exploring her creative side through pottery. She shares her home with her spirited dog, Dune, and her playful cat, Tilly, both of whom bring joy and warmth to her life. A fun fact about Taylor is that she grew up in Southern California and moved to Washington to pursue her college softball career. She quickly fell in love with the state and has called it home for the past eight years.

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Volunteer

Ms. Pat, affectionately known as "Grandma-ma" by the children at Mini Einstein's, has been a dedicated volunteer at the center since 2013. An Army veteran, she also served as a paraeducator in special education within the Kent School District for 13 years, where she made a significant impact on the lives of her students. As the proud mother of Samantha Sciacca, the owner and program director of Mini Einstein's, Ms. Pat has a deep connection to the center's mission.

In her free time, she enjoys shopping on HSN and cherishing moments with her seven beloved grandchildren. Her warmth and experience bring a nurturing presence to the Mini Einstein's community.

Volunteer

Ms. Lee has an extensive background as the owner and founder of several successful businesses in the greater Seattle area for over 15 years. In 2013, she earned her certification in Social and Human Services. She joined MELC that same year as an infant teacher and dedicated herself to nurturing young minds until her retirement in 2018.

After taking a brief hiatus, Ms. Lee returned to MELC as a volunteer in 2019, where she has since become affectionately known as "Halmonie" (grandma) by the students. Her warm demeanor and deep understanding of child development allow her to create a welcoming and supportive environment for children and families alike.

Ms. Lee is also a proud grandmother of two: one grandchild is an alumnus of MELC, while the other is currently attending. Outside of her time at MELC, she loves gardening, exploring new recipes in the kitchen, and spending quality time with her family. Her dedication to fostering a love of learning and her commitment to the MELC community make her an invaluable presence.

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