Meet the Teachers

- Maria, Lead Teacher -

Beansprouts Teacher since 2009
Early Childhood Education coursework at De Anza College
Ongoing professional development thru conferences and staff training
CPR/Pediatric First Aid Certified

Maria has been a cherished part of the Beansprouts team since 2009, when she first joined as an assistant. Over the years, she has grown into an exceptional teacher, drawing from her experiences as a parent, her studies in Early Childhood Education at De Anza College, and the mentoring she has received at Beansprouts.

Beloved by children, staff, and families alike, Maria is known for her warmth, humor, and creativity. She brings laughter, engaging activities, and positive discipline to the classroom, and many families continue to seek her out for babysitting and other services. Maria’s dedication and joyful presence make her an invaluable member of the Beansprouts community.

- Erica, Lead Teacher -

Beansprouts Teacher since January 2022
Bachelor's Degree in Child Development from San Jose State Univ.
CPR/Pediatric First Aid Certified

Erica brings a wealth of experience to Beansprouts, having previously worked at Little Oak Preschool and Barron Park Preschool. Her passion for engaging young learners shines through in every interaction, from telling captivating stories to exploring science and collaborating with the children to create dynamic, engaging curricula.

Erica is not only a dedicated teacher but also the proud mother of a toddler, who is a part of the Beansprouts Preschool class. This dual perspective as both a parent and educator deepens her connection to the children and families she works with.

In her free time, Erica enjoys reading, writing, and has recently developed an interest in graphic illustration, a creative pursuit that often inspires her work with the kids. She loves bringing her unique talents and energy to the Beansprouts community.

- Kathy, Lead Teacher -

Beansprouts Teacher since 2022
Bachelor’s degree in Business Marketing, SJSU
Family caretaker
First Aid certified

Kathy began her career in the corporate world and explored entrepreneurial ventures. After several years, she chose to step away and focus on raising a family with 3 kids, and became a full time caretaker for her young nieces and nephews. This transition ignited a deeper appreciation for nurturing young minds and balancing creativity with positive discipline.

Inspired by her time raising young children, she returned to work and embarked on a new path for her love of early childhood education. Kathy is committed to fostering a positive, engaging environment where young learners can grow socially and emotionally. Outside of work, Kathy enjoys staying active, music, eating and traveling.

- Mikayla, Lead Teacher -

Beansprouts Teacher since June 2024
Bachelors degree in human development w/ a concentration in child development from CSUEB

Mikayla has always been passionate about working with children and helping them grow. Her journey began at Agape Preschool, where she started her first job after earning her high school diploma. While pursuing her college degree, Mikayla focused her studies on the importance of play in children's development, which deepened her commitment to early childhood education.

After graduating, Mikayla discovered Beansprouts Preschool and was drawn to its unique philosophy and approach to learning. She loves that every day brings new opportunities to learn and grow, both within the classroom and beyond. Mikayla is excited to continue nurturing children’s development and building meaningful connections with the families she works with.

- Stephanie, Supporting Teacher, Founder -

Master's Degree in Human Development from Pacific Oaks College
Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology from John F. Kennedy University
Bachelor's Degree in Child Development from San Jose State Univ.
Early Childhood Education Permit from California Commission for Teacher Credentialing
10 years experience working as an ECE Mentor Teacher with the California Early Childhood Mentor Program
CPR/Pediatric First Aid certified with Health and Safety Training
8 years experience as a Master Teacher and Co-Director at Barron Park Preschool in Palo Alto

When I opened Beansprouts Preschool in 2008, I sought to use not only my experience and education, but my deep sense of respect for childhood, to design a program that is both developmentally appropriate for children and follows children's lead. My expertise in the field has allowed me to tailor my practices based on continuing education and the ever-evolving philosophy of how to meet the children right where they are. Some of my specialties include creating musical experiences with children, setting up fun, wholesome environments for preschoolers, mentoring early childhood educators, and developing loving relationships with children and families. In my freetime, I'm a die hard animal lover and spend time with fur babies. I am also a mental health provider in my hours away from Beansprouts.