I first joined San Mateo Parents’ Nursery School in 2012 as a co-opping parent. Soon after, the director at the time asked me to become an aide, telling me I was “pretty good at this.” That moment began my long and meaningful journey at SMPNS.  I worked as an aide until 2018, when I became a teacher. In 2025, I became Head Teacher, and I am now honored to serve as the Director of SMPNS.

I grew up on a small farm in New Hampshire, where my love of animals and nature began. Many families know me as the “Tarantula Teacher” because I am an invertebrate hobbyist with a collection of tarantulas, spiders, beetles, millipedes, praying mantises, roly-polies, assassin bugs, and more. I love bringing animals from my collection to school to help children build curiosity, confidence, and respect for the natural world around them.

I hold a B.A. in History from San José State University, a preliminary teaching credential from Notre Dame de Namur University, and have 24 units in Early Childhood Education from Cañada College and Saddleback College. I also have a background in technology and worked as a Senior PC Support Specialist before moving into education.  I live in Foster City with my husband and son, an SMPNS alumnus, Eagle Scout, recent high school graduate, and future UC Irvine student. 

I am so grateful for my many mentors who have shaped my work at SMPNS and I look forward to carrying on the traditions, values, and play-based spirit of the school as Director.

I'm happy to say I've had the privilege of being part of SMPNS since 2012. I've worn many hats here — substitute teacher, co-op parent, co-president, director-teacher, and teacher. I returned as Interim Director in the fall of 2025 and now serve as Program Director for the 2026–2027 school year.

I live in the North Shoreview neighborhood with my husband Chris and our two SMPNS alumni daughters, Stefi (16) and Niki (12).

My education and experience are rooted in Child Development. I earned my B.A. in Child Development from CSU Chico and a Master's in Education with an emphasis in Curriculum Development from Notre Dame de Namur University, where I also received my Multiple Subject teaching credential. I taught middle school math and science in Cupertino for many years before returning to early childhood education.

I began my preschool teaching career in Chico in 1996, moved into the Head Teacher role at Marin Day School in San Francisco, and went on to teach several elementary and middle school grades. I started teaching preschool at SMPNS in 2013 — and as of 2026, I've been teaching for 30 years. Thirty years of loving children!

All of that experience lands me in the perfect role for leading and teaching at SMPNS. I love working with people, young children, and their families. Early childhood and parent education are both passions of mine, so there's no better place to be. Cheers to SMPNS and many years to come!

I grew up just over the bridge in the east bay. I'm one of four children in a very close knit family.  I got my degree from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, in Liberal Studies and a multiple subject teaching credential from San Diego State University. I taught 3rd grade, here, in the SMFC school district until I had the first of my two boys. 

This school with its wonderful philosophy, seasoned teachers, and warmth of community has drawn me back into teaching.  I'm very honored to spend part of my day with your children.  

I’ve lived in San Mateo my entire life, but I didn’t realize my true calling until later—even though the signs were there during my years as a swim teacher, lifeguard, and babysitter.  My journey with San Mateo Parents Nursery School (SMPNS) began in 2018 when my daughter enrolled. We remained part of the community through the challenges of COVID, and I found myself even more inspired by how the program adapted and grew.

Both of my daughters have attended SMPNS, and I’ve loved being an active part of their early learning experiences. I served on the Board and eventually joined the staff, deepening my connection to the school and its mission. As I pursue my Master’s in Early Childhood Education, I continue to enjoy spending my afternoons with the children at SMPNS.

This school—with its child-centered philosophy, experienced teachers, and warm community—has deeply influenced my path as an educator. I’m truly honored to be part of your child’s early learning journey.

My name is Bryana, but the kids call me Teacher Bree. I have lived in San Mateo County my whole life and have been an active volunteer in my community.  I have been passionate about teaching for over 15 years now. While attending SJSU I began my career in the educational field. I started out as the preschool director for the City of Redwood City Parks and Recreation, along with running all the department's camps. After many years in the director role I decided to go into the teaching role and have loved it ever since. In my free time I enjoy taking my bulldog " Tootsie" on outdoor adventures. You may have seen us walking the neighborhood or trail. I also enjoy cooking, baking and gardening in my spare time. I'm thrilled to be joining such a wonderful community and looking forward to getting to know all of you this year.

My Name is Astrid Lopez and I was born and raised in San Mateo. I’m the youngest in my family. I enjoy going on walks and being connected to nature- a way to feel relaxed and have a moment to myself. 

I'm an alumni of San Francisco State University with a Bachelors Degree in Child and Adolescent Development. I’m someone who enjoys to be part of a child’s development in their learning growth. With several years in supporting children in classroom and recreational settings. I’m thrilled to be part of SMPNS community and to be able to work alongside the other teachers and to create new experiences. 

Hello.  I’m Jacqueline. I am a graduate of Saint Mary’s College and have taught preschool in both the public and private sectors on the Peninsula.  I am a mother of two and live in San Mateo w/ my husband and our doodles Finn & Maizie  I am a firm believer in the value and importance of PLAY and so excited to join this amazing SMPNS community. When I am away from school, I enjoy water sports, live music, teaching ART, time with my Ohana, and being in my happy place… “Coastside"..

Hi there! I'm a teacher's aide here at SMPNS and also a graduate student at Pepperdine University, where I’m earning my Master’s in Clinical Psychology. I’ve always felt inspired by the way young children explore the world, express their feelings, and build connections with others. My background includes supporting kids’ emotional development, and my studies focus on things like attachment theory, co-regulation, and social-emotional learning. I’m especially passionate about early mental health support and the lasting impact it can have on children and families. In the classroom, I bring a warm, patient, and whimsical energy. I love getting creative, spending time in nature, and sharing my love of animals. My goal is to help each child feel nurtured, confident, and free to be exactly who they are.

Janete has been a co-op hero for several families as a nanny and loves the school so much, she took on a job as a classroom assistant to help in the mornings while she nannies in the afternoon!