Meet the Teachers
Juliet Gilbert
Molly Whalen
Kota McCarty
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
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.
Kota McCarty
Molly Whalen
Kota McCarty
Lead Preschool Teacher
Kota 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.
Molly Whalen
Molly Whalen
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.
Evie Harris
Maria Ogden
Molly Whalen
Lead Preschool Teacher
Bio coming soon!
Maria Ogden
Maria Ogden
Maria Ogden
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 spendi
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
Maria Ogden
Maria Ogden
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.
Kimberly Rivas
Eliza MacDonald
Kimberly Rivas
Lead Toddler Teacher
Bio coming soon!
Yudi Portillo
Eliza MacDonald
Kimberly Rivas
Bio coming soon!
Eliza MacDonald
Eliza MacDonald
Eliza MacDonald
Operations Assistant - Float
Eliza grew up in Auckland, New Zealand, and 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 excited to be living in the beautiful Pacific Northwest. Eliza brings experience working in art museums, mu
Operations Assistant - Float
Eliza grew up in Auckland, New Zealand, and 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 excited to be living in the beautiful Pacific Northwest. Eliza brings experience working in art museums, museum education and many years as a private nanny to her role at Ivy Blossom, where she’s passionate about supporting and nurturing each child’s growth. In her free time, she enjoys crafting and going on walks around the city.