Harmon Oaks Nursery School

Bios

• Ms. Mariya

  Nursery School Director

  Ms. Mariya began her early education career as a preschool teacher at a small independent school in Hollywood, focusing on kindergarten readiness and early literacy. While teaching she continued her education and completed her Master's in Educational Psychology, becoming and working as a school counselor for the past five years. As such, she places much emphasis on developing a mentally and emotionally safe environment for children. She believes that children need to feel cared for, loved, and positive about themselves before true learning can occur. Caring and educating children in a safe, welcoming, healthy, and enriching environment where children can develop their curiosity and love for learning is her absolute priority.

  Link: Ms. Mariya

• Mr. Harry

  Transitional Preschool Teacher

  Mr. Harry is Harmon Oaks' Transitional Preschool Teacher, focusing on preparing children transitioning from the toddler program to preschool curriculum. He is a certified early education teacher and his most influential experience was with Caltech's Children's Center in Pasadena, focusing on science integration within preschool programs. While Mr. Harry also specializes in classroom management and behavioral solutions, he believes strongly in "empathy before discipline." He adds, "Always be empathetic, no matter how frustrating the situation. With empathy you let the behavior be the "bad guy" and you, the parent, avoid a power struggle."

• Ms. Lourdes

  Asst. Site-Director & Lead Toddler Teacher

  Ms. Lourdes is Harmon Oak's Assistant Director and Lead Toddler Teacher. She has a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology with an emphasis in Child Development, and has great experience working with children ages two through five in the capacity of a teacher and behavioral therapist. She comes to Harmon Oaks from the Language Garden, where she served as the Asst. Director and Lead Preschool Teacher, focusing on Spanish language immersion. Ms. Lourdes is also a veteran and has served our country for a number of years through the United States Army. She has plentiful of patience and with a son in elementary school, she's passionate about children receiving care and education in a safe and welcoming environment.