About Our Teachers :: The Cooperative Playschool

ABOUT OUR TEACHERS

We are lucky enough to have 2 of the most talented, creative, experienced, and friendly teachers in the world on our staff. Here's a little bit about each of them:

Mrs. Kat (Red Team)

My name is Mrs. Kat, and I am one of the two professional teachers who will be guiding your child through his preschool experience. I consider myself very fortunate to be teaching at Co-op. Co-op has been the longest running cooperative in the area, and it is inspirational to work alongside such devoted and enthusiastic parents every day. At Co-op, everyone’s gifts are supported and encouraged, and I am grateful for the opportunities offered to all the members of the community, myself included.

Cooperative Playschool provides an optimum setting for young children to play and explore. The outdoor garden and the large spacious grounds outside the classroom building offer ample space for playing fields, playground and nature walks. Seasonal “Waldorf-inspired” nature tables and celebrations contribute to the children’s awareness of the wonders of nature inside the classrooms. I feel that the children are very lucky to have such a beautiful location for their preschool. It enriches my life as their teacher and offers endless opportunities for exploration and interaction.

The most influential educational theory in my life is the Waldorf method founded by Rudolf Steiner. I bring many songs, festivals, finger plays, crafts, methodologies, marionette shows, birthday circles, toys, displays, and handwork from this tradition to Co-op. Our play-based philosophy mirrors the daily rhythm of a Waldorf kindergarten. It is a great joy to celebrate the seasons with the Co-op children at my farm in Spring Mills. I enjoy inviting families to a gnome walk in the woods or to a spring Maypole festival. Once a year, Mrs. Thaw and King Winter have their annual tug-of-war where the Co-op children join either character in a contest to see if spring will come soon or more snow will fall. I feel honored that the Co-op community has encouraged me to bring these Waldorf-inspired programs to the children at Co-op.

In closing, I would like to add that Co-op is not a normal preschool. It is a community- forming experience that encourages and empowers every family to be involved in their children’s education. Every year I am astounded by the quality of caring our parents show their children and then proceed to share with the preschool population. I continue to learn and be inspired by our preschool parents. It is an honor and a privilege to be one of the teachers at Co-op.

Ms. Mindy (Green Team)

Hello and welcome to the three year old class! I am so excited to begin this school year with the Cooperative Playschool! My name is Mindy Miller and I am looking forward to working with your child this year!

I have been working with children for the past six years. In 2003, I entered Penn State as a returning adult student to pursue my dream of becoming a teacher. During this time, I began driving school bus while residing in Mifflin County. The job fit perfect into my busy school schedule and still allowed me time to spend with my son. Two years later I relocated to State College. I graduated from Penn State in the spring of 2007 with a B.S. in Elementary and Kindergarten Education.

During my years in college I worked in the infant through preschool rooms at Nittany Christian School. After graduation I began substituting at Nittany Christian, as well as State College & Bellefonte Area School Districts. I also spent a year employed as a long term substitute for the Central Intermediate Unit #10. I was a preschool developmental teacher working with children on the Autism spectrum.

I have two absolutely wonderful children. My son, Devin, is thirteen and began seventh grade last week. My daughter, Kinzley, just turned three in June! We have a home in Park Forest and love living in State College.

Please feel free to ask me any questions your may have. I look forward to getting to know you and your child this year!