Meet Our Staff

Hello, I’m Susan. My educational background includes a Bachelor Degree in Social Science with emphasis in Child Development and I have over 39 years in the field teaching, directing and overseeing multiple childcare centers with children up to 12 years of age. I’m happy to be a part of the teaching team here at CCP.

I love hiking, traveling, and spending time on the beach. I am a huge dog lover and have a yellow lab named Scout. I have three grown children with ages ranging from 20-27 years old.

Hi everyone, my name is Beth and I am excited to join the team at Coastal Community Preschool. In 2019, when our youngest was in high school, I decided to return to school to test the waters with one ECE class and was hooked! I have since continued my education taking 3-4 classes a semester and 2 during summer sessions. I have earned my Child Development Associate Teacher certificate through Cerro Coso and am on track to earn my Master Teacher certificate as well as my AS in Child Human Development this fall. I just can’t get enough and look forward to continuing my education through classes and collaborating with coworkers here at CCP.

As our boys were growing up, I was an active volunteer in school, sports, and scouts so I was surrounded by various age groups for many years. As they got older, I realized I especially enjoyed working with the very young and decided to seek out career opportunities. In 2019 I started work as a teacher’s aide with a variety of age groups from 2–5 year-olds. Within a few months, I was promoted to a teaching position working with toddlers, ages 18-24 months, and I have spent the last three years enjoying every minute of my day. I love the connections I make with both the children and their families I work with.

I can be found outside when I have time to spend with my family, friends, or by myself. I love camping, hiking, kayaking (am a novice), gardening, and going barefoot. Our two dogs, Ajax and Sidekick will usually be by my side. My other passion is reading everything from cookbooks to suspense to children’s books and beyond. One of my favorite children’s books is The Whole Night Through by David Frampton. The words are lyrical, but what I find most fascinating is that the illustrations are made from woodcuts that he carved and then painted to create each page.

I began with the Pre-K age group over thirty years ago in a co-op preschool with my own children. When my oldest child went to college, 15 years ago, I started teaching in early childhood education where I enjoy developing curriculum and helping students reach their full potential. I taught Pre-K for over 10 years in Carlsbad, California and I have taught 3- 5 year old children in play-based and Reggio-inspired programs.

In continuing my education I have earned ECE units from several community colleges over the years including a Certificate of Achievement in Child Development Associate Teacher from MiraCosta College. Additionally, I have taught art at a non-profit program called StudioAce and I have volunteered throughout my teaching career at numerous non-profits.

When I’m not in the classroom, I enjoy traveling, photography, gardening, riding my bike, and eating delicious food. I also love trying new restaurants, going to the beach, museums, art galleries, and spending time with my two adorable grandsons!

Over the years I’ve focused on developing my understanding of Early Childhood Education (ECE) and Development. I earned an Associate Degree in Early Childhood and a Liberal Arts Degree from Cabrillo College. Additionally, I completed the SEEDS Early Literacy course offered by First 5 Capitola. Moving forward, I plan to continue expanding my knowledge by attending workshops, conferences, and other educational opportunities.

I began working with young children at the age of sixteen as a nanny for a newborn. During my time with the family, I found great joy in serving them and building a lasting connection. After high school, I was unsure of my career path until a family member suggested I take ECE courses. It was during this time that I discovered my passion for teaching and guiding young children. Watching them grow and develop into unique individuals brings me immense joy. I continued nannying while taking evening classes. I then worked as a preschool teacher’s assistant at Live Oak Preschool, gaining valuable hands-on experience under the guidance of an incredible mentor.  I moved on to work at the Children’s Enrichment Center at Twin Lakes Church. There, I worked in various classrooms with different age groups and mentors. I became the lead teacher for the older two’s classroom where I further honed my skills in leading and guiding young students before coming to CCP.

In my spare time, I enjoy a variety of hobbies including reading, cross-stitching, crafting, and painting. I also have a deep love for travel and adventure having explored places like India, Italy, and the Caribbean with my wonderful family. One of my personal goals is to visit as many national parks as possible to experience the majesty and beauty of nature.

Hello, I’m Giselle and I am a recent graduate from UCSC with a degree in intensive Psychology. Currently I am a student at Cabrillo College where I am taking Early Childhood Education courses. Recently I completed a 20-week internship as a teacher’s aide at a local preschool. I am excited to be a part of the team in classroom 1.

I have worked as a substitute teacher in a 2-3 year old classroom. I also completed an internship as a research assistant in one of UCSC’s psychology labs where I worked on a study that investigated the role of storytelling in teaching science principles to children through a book reading activity.

In my free time I enjoy crocheting clothing and household items. I also like to cook, scrapbook and work out.

Hello CCP families, I’m Kimberly. My educational background includes a BA in Bible and Physical Education, double major. I took ECE classes in college as my fun classes and find it wonderful to be working in this field. I have 40 years of experience working with children from preschool age through high school. I have also worked with children with special needs and infants and I was a craft director at two schools and two different camps.

My first job at 18 years old was at an after-school program for elementary aged kids. I have coached volleyball and after moving up to Santa Cruz from SoCal 32 years ago, I began working with preschoolers and fell in love with this age group. Their honesty and curiosity about everything is so precious and I love to encourage them to be themselves and care about others.

When I’m not teaching, I own my own art business and love to paint and make gift from my paintings. I enjoy sewing, making quilts, and other fun things. I play softball with my husband in a co-ed league. I also like taking long walks in the forest and west cliff with friends.

I have earned my A.S Degree in Early Childhood Education from Cabrillo College where I interned in their Children’s Center for a year and then became a Head Teacher. I worked at the Family Network preschool for three years before moving to the Santa Cruz Toddler Care Center from 2004 until 2020. Additionally I worked in a home preschool from 2017-2020. I have had over 20 years of experience working with children from infant age to 5 years old.

I have three beautiful daughters that I am very proud of and I love spending time with them. I was a pastor’s kid and I enjoy going to church. My hobbies include photography and doing Word Search and board games. If I have spare time I enjoy listening to music and visiting the beach and taking in the beauty of this area.

Hello CCP families! My name is Melissa, and I’m thrilled to be part of your child’s early learning journey. I hold a strong academic background in Early Childhood Education, having studied extensively in both my hometown of Redding and in San Diego. I have completed over 18 units in Early Childhood Education, with coursework emphasizing child development, curriculum planning, and inclusive teaching practices. I am passionate about creating a dynamic, play-based learning environment that sparks curiosity and joy. My teaching philosophy centers on the whole-child approach—nurturing each child’s social, emotional, cognitive, and physical growth while honoring their unique needs and learning styles.

I have been teaching preschool for nearly 15 years and have been working with children through volunteer work for even longer. I have always had a deep drive to love and care for others, especially those who cannot care for themselves. I strive to be someone that children can feel safe, seen & loved with.

When I’m not teaching, I enjoy going to concerts, playing & singing music, roller skating and most of all spending time with my friends and family.

Hi I’m Maribel, I have earned my BA in Intensive Psychology at UCSC focusing on Developmental Child Psychology. I was also a part of a speech processing research team on campus. I started taking psychology courses even in high school to better understand how we as humans function and found that learning and observing how children’s minds grow was of great interest to me.

I am excited to be working as part of the team in Classroom 1(again!) and bring valuable experience from my time in Classroom 3. I have always had a strong passion for working with children and supporting their early development, which is why I’ve focused my career in early childhood education. My hands-on experience in the classroom has deepened my commitment to helping young learners thrive. I’m also continuing my professional journey by pursuing a Master’s Degree in Family Therapy—fingers crossed!

I was born and raised in Santa Cruz so I make sure to visit all my favorite places in the area with my family whenever I get the chance. I love going on hikes and to the beach with friends.

Hello, my name is Heidi and I am excited to be a part of the staff here at CCP. My educational background includes a bachelor degree in Child Development and I have been working with young children for more than thirty years. Fun extra fact: I have also earned a Baking and Pastry certificate from a culinary school.

I have worked with children from ages 6 months through 6 years and began my career with children as a preschool teacher in San Diego. I then worked a teacher at a Montessori school until 2015 and next as a nanny until 2023.

I have three grown children and one adorable grandson. In my spare time I enjoy hiking, biking, swimming and traveling. I especially enjoy traveling to Europe and hiking in local forests.

I have been a part of Coastal Community Preschool’s teaching team since 2021, serving many roles during the years: substitute teachers, teacher in Classroom 3, and support teacher. I am grateful to belong to such a strong group of dedicated, quality early childhood educators!

I received my BA in psychology with an emphasis in child development in 1995. I went on to study Early Childhood Education at Cabrillo College. I received my training and certification in Montessori Education through the American Montessori Society in 2002.

The preschool years are a transformational time in development. It is extremely rewarding to support young children as they make gains in self-awareness and self-expression, responsibility and independence, and prosocial skills for successful peer relationships.

As a fellow parent, I know the ride can be bumpy at times, but it sure is sweet!

I earned my B.A. in Intensive Psychology at UCSC with a minor in Education. Ever since my first Psychology class in High School, I have always been fascinated with understanding human behaviors, which evolved into wanting to help and better understand children. I am originally from Los Angeles but enjoying my new experiences in Santa Cruz.

Over the past year, I have had the opportunity to intern in Classroom 3 at Coastal Community Preschool, which has given me valuable hands-on experience and a deeper understanding of early childhood education. While I previously worked with children with special needs, my time at CCP has provided a new and enriching perspective on supporting all children in their growth and development. I am always eager to continue learning and finding ways to improve my ability to connect with and support young children.

As a born and raised native of Los Angeles, Santa Cruz is my first experience away from home in a “small town” (compared to LA). I enjoy exploring the city, and its more peaceful and simple atmosphere. If you know any recommendations for places to visit, eat, or experience feel free to tell me.

I am excited to be a part of CCP working in the School-Age program this year!

My name is Cheryl McGowen. I have been an educator for over 30 years. I first started working with children at a very young age. My parents would have me work Sunday school at the church we belonged to. I immediately felt comfortable in that setting and loved taking care of little ones. I have earned my Early Childhood Education as well as Montessori certifications, and I have also completed my certification in Psychology and School Management.

I worked at a Montessori school, where I was a head teacher and a director, for 30 years until it closed in 2022.  I really am passionate about children learning and being in a warm welcoming and beautiful space to spend their day, allowing them to work with hands-on materials that they are able to manipulate and create their own beautiful work. I love doing music with children, singing, and engaging in songs that involve all the children to participate in and have fun. I also love being out in nature with children, exploring and watching new friendships bloom!

I am so happy and proud to be part of the Coastal Community Preschool After-School Program.

I am looking forward to a fantastic year!

I joined the Coastal Community Preschool family in August 2011 as a parent in Classroom 2, quickly becoming involved in school life through the Family Day Festival planning committee and the CCP Board of Directors. These early experiences deepened my appreciation for the importance of high-quality early education and inspired me to take a more active role in our preschool’s mission. In 2013, I was thrilled to officially join the staff of this incredible school.

I bring to my role a strong background in management and administration, as well as a BA in Social Science with a concentration in education, focusing on early childhood education. In addition to my degree, I have completed multiple Early Childhood Education courses at Cabrillo College, which have strengthened my understanding of child development, classroom environments, and best practices in early learning. This blend of professional experience and academic preparation allows me to lead with both organizational skill and a deep commitment to supporting children’s growth.

Outside of work, my daughter—now a senior at Santa Cruz High School—keeps us busy with her sports activities. As a family, we love traveling, biking, and spending time outdoors. I also enjoy gardening, reading, and being at the beach or in nature.

kimberlee@coastalcommunitypreschool.org

I have worked in Early Childhood Education in the Santa Cruz area for over 25 years, and at  CCP since 2011, where I have been a part of Classrooms 2 and 3.  Most recently, I was promoted to Program Director. I earned my AA in Early Childhood Education along with multiple ECE certificates at Cabrillo College, and have a Child Development Site-Supervisor permit. I have also been trained in both the SEEDS literacy and Handwriting Without Tears programs. 

I have always loved working with children and am passionate about creating a learning, enriched environment that focuses on fostering a child’s self-respect and respect for others. I feel strongly about giving children the opportunity to explore and create at their own pace and to embrace cultural diversity, all the while having FUN! I have always found it rewarding to witness the progression of how a child starts to learn something and then when he/she really grasps the concept. I realize how special these early years are and the positive impact a teacher can have on their growth.  

In my spare time, I enjoy hanging out with my husband Craig, going on walks, listening to music, spending time in bookshops (I have an exceptionally large children’s book collection), as well as watching the GIANTS!

stephanie@coastalcommunitypreschool.org