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    • Home
    • Mission & Philosophy
    • Programs
    • Newsletter
    • Menu & Daily Sketch
    • Meet the Teachers
    • Meet the Animals
    • Our Facilities
    • Tuition & Payments
    • Contact Us
  • Home
  • Mission & Philosophy
  • Programs
  • Newsletter
  • Menu & Daily Sketch
  • Meet the Teachers
  • Meet the Animals
  • Our Facilities
  • Tuition & Payments
  • Contact Us

Grow with Us

Grow with UsGrow with UsGrow with Us

About Us

LeighAnn Biesman | Co-Founder

LeighAnn is a mother of three and holds a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education (ECE), along with certifications in English as a Second Language (ESL) and middle school English, Reading, and Language Arts (ELA). She has taught first grade, fifth grade ELA, and a Title One reading pull-out program in Fort Worth, Texas, supporting emerging readers from kindergarten through fifth grade. Additionally, LeighAnn brings five years of experience as a lead teacher in a center-based childcare in Seattle, working primarily with children aged 11 months to 2.5 years. Most recently, she worked as a nanny for a family with two small children. LeighAnn shares her life with her long-term partner and a menagerie of pups. In her free time, she enjoys thrifting, drinking coffee, and caring for hers and Renee's plants.

Renee Connor-Sheen | Co-Founder

Renee graduated from Trinity Lutheran College with a Bachelor of Arts in Children, Youth, and Family Studies (CYFS) and a minor in Early Childhood Education (ECE). She has experience working as a lead teacher in center-based childcares in Seattle, as a nanny, and as part of a leadership, planning, and teaching team for a weekly kids’ program serving Pre-K through 5th grade. Renee lives with her husband and their bearded dragon, Calcifer. In her free time, she enjoys drinking coffee, reading, camping, and spending quality time with her family.

Juliet Gilbert | Operations Manager

Juliet is a dedicated mother to one amazing kiddo and brings that same care and commitment to her role in early childhood education. She understands the value of high-quality preschool experiences and works closely with families and staff to support the school's mission. When she’s not managing operations, Juliet enjoys baking sourdough bread—a hobby that reflects the same patience, attention, and nurturing spirit she believes are essential in both parenting and early education.

Molly Whalen | Lead Preschool Teacher

Molly is currently pursuing her bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education. She is passionate about creating positive learning experiences for young children and growing alongside both the children and fellow educators. In her spare time, Molly enjoys volunteering at her local animal shelter and rock wall climbing.

Kota McCarty | Assistant Preschool Teacher

Kota is new to early childhood education but brings a deep passion for working with children and helping them grow into their fullest potential. They are committed to creating a joyful, supportive learning environment and are excited to continue growing as an educator. Outside of work, Kota loves music, books, and art—interests that often inspire creativity and connection in the classroom as well.

Maria Ogden Hernandez | Lead Infant Teacher

Maria is a kind and gentle teacher originally from Mexico, with a strong background in working with infants and toddlers. She brings warmth, patience, and care to her teaching, creating a nurturing environment for the youngest learners. Outside the classroom, Maria enjoys traveling, practicing yoga, cooking, and spending time with her husband and their two beloved dogs, George and Willow.

Sophia Durand | Lead Toddler Teacher

Sophia has been working with children ages 1–5 for two+ years and has found a special passion for working with toddlers. With a background in English and Psychology, she combines her academic knowledge with a hands-on, nurturing approach to early childhood care. Outside of work, Sophia enjoys baking, reading, watching Jeopardy!, and playing video games with her fiancé.

Eliza MacDonald | Lead Toddler Teacher

Originally from Auckland, New Zealand, Eliza moved to the United States in 2023 to work at the Smithsonian Institution. She and her partner recently relocated to Seattle to be closer to family, and she’s thrilled to call the beautiful Pacific Northwest home. Eliza brings a rich background in art museums, museum education, and many years of experience as a private nanny to her role at Ivy Blossom. She is passionate about nurturing each child’s individual growth and curiosity. In her free time, Eliza enjoys crafting and exploring the city on foot.

June Salviati | School Age Coordinator

June is a passionate educator with a background in child psychology and development, dedicated to creating supportive, encouraging, and creative learning environments. They bring over four years of experience working with children—three as a paraeducator and substitute teacher in California, and one as a Boys & Girls Club Counselor—primarily supporting kids ages 3 to 7. Now living in Seattle with their two beloved cats, June enjoys reading classic science fiction and playing Dungeons & Dragons in their free time.

Cassie Carabellese | Half-Day Preschool Coordinator

Cassie is an energetic and passionate teacher with experience working with children across a wide range of ages. She is committed to creating a supportive, engaging learning environment where every child can thrive. Outside of the classroom, Cassie enjoys baking, sipping coffee, and playing video games with her fiancé.

Teen Helpers | Assistant Teachers

At Ivy Blossom, we believe in fostering community, mentorship, and a love for early childhood education—values that extend to our teen helpers. By welcoming responsible and enthusiastic teens into our classrooms, we provide them with meaningful, hands-on experience working with young children, while giving our teachers and little learners the benefit of extra support.


Teen helpers assist with daily routines, engage children in play and learning activities, and model positive behavior. Their presence brings fresh energy to our environment and helps build intergenerational connections. We see this opportunity as an investment in the future of education—and in the growth and confidence of the teens themselves.

Future Positions at Ivy Blossom Preschool!

Infant-Toddler Lead

Infant-Toddler Assistant

Infant-Toddler Assistant

Infant Room experience HIGHLY preferred!

CPR/First Aid, background check required.

CDA or willingness required.

Love and patience for babes REQUIRED!

Full medical/dental/vision coverage.

PTO, sick days, and paid vacation.

Infant-Toddler Assistant

Infant-Toddler Assistant

Infant-Toddler Assistant

Experience with basic infant care required.

CPR/First Aid, background check required.

Love and patience for babes required.

Full medical/dental/vision coverage.

PTO, sick days, and paid vacation.

Pre-K Lead

Pre-K Lead

Pre-K Lead

Preschool experience HIGHLY preferred!

CPR/First Aid, background check required.

CDA or willingness required.

Love and patience for children REQUIRED!

Full medical/dental/vision coverage.

PTO, sick days, and paid vacation.

Floater

Pre-K Lead

Pre-K Lead

Floaters have a bad rep in the childcare field- not here! We need and VALUE someone who can work in ANY room on ANY day.

CPR/First Aid, background check required.

Love and experience for/with birth-4th grade!

Full medical/dental/vision coverage.

PTO, sick days, and paid vacation.

Contact Us

EMPLOYMENT INTEREST ONLY!

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Ivy Blossom Preschool LLC, Seattle

Hours

Mon

08:00 am – 06:00 pm

Tue

08:00 am – 06:00 pm

Wed

08:00 am – 06:00 pm

Thu

08:00 am – 06:00 pm

Fri

08:00 am – 06:00 pm

Sat

By Appointment

Sun

By Appointment


Copyright © 2023 Ivy Blossom Preschool LLC, Seattle - All Rights Reserved.

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