Meet The Teachers

Hi, I’m Ashley, I’m the owner of Ash & Elm and one of our preschool teachers. I have worked in Early Childhood Education for 15 years, I have worked for the Department of Defense, Department of the Army and Department of the Navy where I specialized in helping military childcare providers set up their childcare programs on and off base in Germany and California. 

I also worked for the Department of Defense Schools Overseas (DODEA) in special education.

I’ve worked in private childcare centers as a lead teacher and owned a private daycare for many years. 

During covid I taught preschool online and created and sold curriculum for childcare facilities. 

I love working with kids and families, and I love creating spaces for kids to have fun and learn! 

In my free time I like to cook and try new foods (I'm a trained chef!), be outside and go on weekend adventures with my family. We live in Maple Valley and love this area so much. 
I look forward to seeing your children in preschool! 

Ms. Kristi

Hi, I’m Kristi!

I am a studio assistant, mom of 3, and one of our preschool teachers. I have a Masters in Teaching and have taught in a variety of settings including middle school, elementary school, and Montessori preschool.

Additionally, I have received specialized training to further my skills in working with neurodivergent children (as well as being a mom to one). My niche is meeting children where they at, be it social emotional or academic.

I have worked with kids since I was one myself and greatly enjoy the daily laughter of working with children. I love seeing kids thrive and find it so fun to be part of a team that works to do just that.

I have 3 young children and 2 rescue dogs, so I don’t have free time, but if I did, I would spend it outside, traveling, and doing projects around the house. We have lived in Maple Valley since 2016 and truly consider this community “home.”