Educational Staff | Gan Yeladim

Education Staff

Ms. Olivia - Toddler Class Teacher

Hi! My name is Ms. Olivia and am always so excited to be teaching in the Toddler Room! Teaching has always been my passion, as it reveals my desire to help others.

I've worked with young children for 22 years. My favorite part of this career is observing how young children explore of the world around them and the individuality each child brings.

Ms. Cecilia - Toddler Class

Teacher

I am a born and raised Alaskan that has fallen in love with being an early childhood educator! I have a large family with many younger siblings and when I found myself at Gan Yeladim, I quickly discovered a work family like no other.

My favorite part of teaching is watching and experiencing children as they discover and navigate the big world around them.

When I'm not at school, I spend my time doing art, exploring Alaska with my friends and family, reading, and snuggling with my dog, Toni!

Ms. Sophia - Preschool Class Teacher

I was born and raised in Pennsylvania, lived in Arizona for a few years, and now I am here!

In my free time I enjoy reading and watching movies, but I especially love getting outside and being active. I am very excited to explore all the natural beauty Alaska has to offer!

Ms. Kaelynn - Preschool Class Teacher

Hi My name is Kaelynn! I was born in Montana, but shortly moved to Alaska where I grew up.

I started my teaching journey right after I graduated and have been working in child education for 4 years. The best part is being apart of their journey and building those bonds that are never forgotten.

Whenever I am not at work, I am painting, walking my dog, , and cuddling with my cats!

My name is Sophia and this is my first year at Gan. I have three years of prior teaching experience in a variety of mixed age classrooms.

Ms. Jess - Preschool Class Teacher

My name is Jess Mapes and I am originally from Minnesota. I moved to Alaska in the summer of 2021. I have been working with children in an early education setting for 18 years. I choose to work for Gan Yeladim because of their investment and genuine care for the students, teachers, and overall community needs.

When I'm not at work, I enjoy exploring more of Alaska with my partner, trying new restaurants or coffee shops, and getting together with my friends.

Ms. Ana - Support Teacher

I was born in Mexico but have been living in Alaska for nearly twenty years! I have been working with children for over a decade and love helping them discover and understand new things.

When I'm not at work, I like to spend my time in nature with my family, reading, and cooking for my loved ones.

Ms. Harper - Support Teacher

I grew up in New York and moved to Alaska after completing my BA degree in History. I have been with Gan for almost 2 years and can usually be found in the office. When I'm not at my desk, I am encouraging children to explore and enjoy everything that nature has to offer -- like maintaining our beautiful garden in the summer!

When I'm not at work, I like to spend my time in nature, watching documentaries, listening to podcasts, and relaxing with my cat, Nellie.

Ms. Emily - Support Teacher

I grew up in rural Minnesota where I received an AS degree in Early Childhood Education. After 5 years of teaching Early Preschool near Minneapolis, I ventured to Alaska and joined the teaching team part-time here at Gan Yeladim!

When not teaching my loveable students I enjoy painting, collage making, yoga, scenic "stop and smell the flowers" type hikes, and relaxing with her cat, Rainn.