Ambassadors of play
Ms. Nicole Co-Founder/Director and Ms. Aubrey Co-Founder/Lead teacher
Ms. Nicole and Ms. Aubrey grew up as childhood acquaintances. Our paths crossed again in 2010 where we found ourselves having coffee and conversation with the best group of friends. We got to know each other again, and learned of our mutual love for Early Childhood Education and the uncanny parallels between our journeys in life. Collectively we have taught for over 20 years, the majority at centers whose philosophies differed from our own core beliefs. These previous programs had expectations that encompassed adult agendas disguised as the child's best interest. We both finally got to a point where we had copied enough Dittos and told enough children to not be children. We realized that going against the grain didn't build the firm foundation children actually thrived from. Through many trials and tribulations we opened Creative Spirit Learning Center in early 2016 and proudly embraced the title of Ambassadors of Play! Nicole and Aubrey have become the best of friends, and constantly thank our lucky stars that we still like each other. :D We, (together and separately) spend our free time with family and live for adventures.
Ms. Aruna- Lead Teacher/Enrollment Coordinator
My name is Aruna. I spent four months as a student teacher at Creative Spirit and I was excited to join as a teacher shortly after. I have an Engineering degree in Information technology from India and I'm currently working on completing my Associate degree in Early Childhood Education. I have been with Creative Spirit for over 2 years now and cannot say enough about how much I enjoy teaching with this age group. It's fascinating to watch kids learn through play and start making connections. I'm a firm believer of learning through play and I'm so happy I found a school that gives importance to play. I'm looking forward to building a positive relationship with each and every kid in the classroom and to have a positive impact in their lives.
During my free time, I like to read a good fiction book, grab a cup of coffee with my friends or spend time with my family.
Ms. Patty- Lead Teacher
My name is Patty and I recently discovered Creative Spirit Learning Center after moving back to Fair Oaks. My husband and I had lived in Placerville for many years and moved to be closer to family. I thought I had retired but the positive, play based philosophy of this school drew me back into the preschool realm. I’m so happy to have found such a wonderful school to be part of! I have bachelor’s degrees in Child Development and Art from Sacramento State and have worked with children for many years in preschools and other settings. There is something very fulfilling to me about being involved in a classroom of young children. I am excited to get to know each child and to encourage their development and friendships with kindness and respect for each unique little person. I hope to bring opportunities to learn and grow to each of them in joyful, interesting ways and in an atmosphere that feels safe and loving. Outside of work, I love to take long walks, sometimes with my large dog, do arts and crafts, spend time with my two grown daughters and granddaughter and enjoy meals with friends and family. I also like reading good books and watching movies and being outdoors gardening and birdwatching.
Ms. Jenna - Teachers Assistant
My name is Jenna. I am originally from South Africa and I came to America as an Aupair in 2019. I have always had a passion for working with children and I am excited to continue this adventure with Creative Spirit, I was an aupair for a family who attended Creative Spirit and this is where I fell in love with learning through play. In my free time I love hanging out with friends and family, hosting games nights and just hanging at home with my husband and our animals.