Our Woodinville Staff

  • Stephanie W.

    I have been in early childhood education since 1999. I love working with children, watching them explore and grow through their world.

    I spend my free time with my daughter and husband. We love to do outdoor activities such as hiking, soccer, camping, and ATV riding. I love finding new books to read while relaxing at home. We have two dogs, a Yorkie and our new addition to the family, Chloe, is a mini–Australian Sheperd!

  • Jessica J.

    I am "Mom" to three beautiful children: Rheya, Arden, & Emmitt. The majority of my time outside of work is spent taking my kids to their numerous activities, listening to music, dancing, reading, or spending time with friends and family. I have a bachelor's degree in elementary education and was most recently principal at a Montessori preschool. I have also been an assistant principal, lead preschool teacher, and dance teacher for kids ages 3 to 18.

  • Haley C.

    Hello! My name is Haley. I am relocating back to home, to Monroe, Washington! I am a mom of 3 kids. I am currently enrolled in college, close to receiving my bachelor's degree in psychology! I have worked at an elementary school and daycare/preschool and loved every moment of it! I love coffee, reading, crafting, using my cricut! I am really excited about my opportunity at Birch Tree and I am really looking forward to teaching your little ones!

  • Tia M.

    Hi, my name is Tia! I’m a wife and proud mom of three amazing kids. For nearly seven years, I provided in-home care as a nanny, caring for three 2-year-olds and a 3-week-old baby—all while raising my own children. Once my kids were older, I transitioned to working in childcare centers, where I’ve been for the past two years. I’m so excited to begin this new journey with Birch Tree Academy! I absolutely love being around little ones and can’t wait to spend my days learning, playing, and growing with yours. When I’m not working, I enjoy spending time with my family, cooking, and diving into craft and home projects.

  • Sofia T.

    Hi, I am Ms. Sofia. I have been working in Early Childhood Education for two years now. Watching students achieve their goals and milestones has brought me great joy! I hope to continue this journey with your students this year. When I’m not working or at school, I enjoy building Lego sets, watching Disney movies, and spending time with my family. I’m so excited to get to know the students and families at Birch Tree Academy!

  • Taylor C.

    Hi, my name is Taylor! I am a mom of one child and am finishing up my associate's degree in early childhood education at Lake Washington Institute of Technology. I have worked in childcare since 2018, and I have loved every second of it! When I am not at work, I am either on the softball fields or exploring with my son! I am so excited for my journey here at Birch Tree Academy and learning with all of your children!

  • Alona N.

    I was born in Ukraine and moved to the United States with my family a few years ago. I have a degree as a junior specialist in education. As a mom of three, I truly enjoy working with young children and supporting their development. I have over two and a half years of experience engaging with kids in learning and play settings. I love encouraging growth through creativity, imagination, and warm, supportive communication. I’m excited to be part of the Birch Tree Academy team!

  • Sammy S.

    Hello, my name is Samy. I’m from Brazil and currently live in Washington State. I work in early childhood education, supporting young children in their emotional growth, behavior, and creativity. I plan to pursue a career in healthcare and become a Registered Nurse. In my free time, I enjoy painting, hiking, reading, and watching movies. I’m fluent in Portuguese, Spanish, and English, and I love working in diverse, multicultural environments.

  • Ilona H.

    My name is Ilona Hadzhymuradova, but most kids and parents just call me Miss Ilona. I’m originally from Ukraine and moved to the U.S. not too long ago. I speak Ukrainian, Russian, and English. I’m still working on improving my English, so I really appreciate your patience and understanding.
    I have a college degree in economics and accounting. For many years, I worked in the book industry, helping connect publishers, bookstores, and customers. But in recent years, I’ve discovered a true passion for working with young children—and I absolutely love it!
    I also lead a small children’s choir at my church with kids ages 5 to 10. I enjoy creating and teaching, but what’s really special is that I often find myself learning from the kids too! There’s always a sense of harmony and connection. 
    I truly love children and believe they bring so much color and joy into our lives. Thanks to them, the world becomes kinder, happier, and filled with love.

  • Olena V.

  • Tanya S.

    My name is Tanya and I was born in Turkmenistan. I moved to the Greater Seattle Area in 2019. I’m married and have one son and a Green Cheek Parrot. I took care of kiddos for over eight years in my country and I love teaching as much as I love learning! My goal as a teacher is to help children explore and discover the world around them and how they can be a part of it. In all my free time, I spend it with my family.

  • Vika K.

    I came to the U.S. from Ukraine in April 2022, after the war broke out in my home country. While there, I worked as a school teacher for 3 years and as a kindergarten teacher for 7 years. I love children very much. My goal is to sculpt full-fledged people with their own individuality, to help them comfortably merge into this world.

  • Noelle T.

    Hi there! My name is Noelle, and I have been working in Early Childhood Education for a little over two years now. I have wanted to teach since I was 5 years old and eventually want to move into elementary education, specifically K-2nd grade. In my free time, I enjoy exploring new restaurants/coffee shops, hanging out with my friends and family, and I am always working on a new art project!

  • Hailee W.

    Hello! My name is Hailee, and I have been working in childcare since 2020. I love working with children and watching them grow and learn new things each and every day! In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family, friends, and animals. I also love coloring, watching movies, reading, and listening to music. I have one dog and three cats who are always keeping me on my toes with their little adventures! I’m so excited to be a part of Birch Tree Academy, and I can’t wait to meet you and get to know your little ones!

  • Jeanne N.

    I'm Jeanne (like a genie in a bottle!) and I take great joy in being a life-long learner in my work teaching children. Although many were against it, I have always wanted to be a teacher, and I can now proudly say that I have people cheering me on as I do so. I have my teaching degree in Elementary Education with an endorsement in Special Education and then obtained my master’s degree in English Language Learning. Knowing that every little interaction can lead to growing confidence in each child is incredibly rewarding and I treasure every little smile, hug, and learning moment in between. Growing up as a shy and reserved learner, I always make it my #1 goal to create a safe and caring space for everyone to be seen and encouraged to bloom. I have two poodles (Mocha and Pinto) and I am an admirer of cakes and cute trinkets!

  • Bella H.

    I was born and raised in Baku, Azerbaijan, & graduated from the University of Economics. In 1989 I moved to Ukraine, after the war I moved to my sisters in the USA. I lived in Bellevue and have been working for BTA since 2022 and I like everything here very much.