Meet the Teachers

At FPNS, our teachers are more than just instructors—they are partners in your child’s discovery. Most of our staff began their journey here as parents, giving them a unique, heart-led perspective on our co-operative community.

  • DIRECTOR & TEACHER, PH.D., M.S.

    Stacy is a lifelong educator who first joined the FPNS family as a parent in 2017. Her passion for our community led her to join the teaching staff in 2021, and she stepped into the role of Director in the summer of 2024. Stacy’s academic background is extensive, featuring a Ph.D. in Education, a Master’s in Innovative Early Childhood Education from the University of Colorado Denver, and previous degrees in Geology and Chemistry.

    Background:

    Stacy is First Aid and CPR certified and is currently earning her Early Years Outdoor Play and Learning Certification from Take Me Outside. Her professional development is deeply rooted in play-based learning and social justice topics.

    Philosophy:

    Stacy believes that play is the most vital work of the first five years of life, laying the "unseen" groundwork for all future academic success. Her goal is to ensure every child feels seen, heard, and understood for their individual strengths. She deeply values the co-op model for its ability to create a "learning community" where children, teachers, and parents grow alongside one another.

    On a Personal Note:

    A fan of creative storytelling, Stacy loves the book Preschool to the Rescue by Judy Sierra for the way it captures the magic of dramatic play. When she isn't at school, she enjoys hiking local trails, sewing, and spending time with her two children and her cat, Hannah.

  • DIRECTOR & TEACHER, M.A.

    Kavitha’s journey in Early Childhood Education began nearly two decades ago, but her connection to FPNS is deeply personal—both of her children are former students. She brings a thoughtful, reflective approach to the classroom, backed by a Master’s Degree in Language and Literature from India and an Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education from Mission College. She is currently expanding her expertise by pursuing a Master’s in Innovative Early Childhood Education from the University of Colorado Denver.

    Background:

    With eight years of experience specifically at FPNS, Kavitha has built her career around the unique dynamics of preschool-aged children. She is First Aid certified and a frequent participant in professional conferences focused on play-based learning and social-emotional development.

    Philosophy:

    Kavitha views play as a universal, holistic, and "wonderfully messy" process. She believes play is what happens when children are given the freedom to make sense of the world on their own terms. Her goal is to create a space where both children and parents feel seen, heard, and supported through the beautiful uncertainties of growing together.

    On a Personal Note:

    Kavitha finds inspiration in the book The Rabbit Listened for its emotional honesty. At school, you’ll likely find her leading "full-body" art explorations—like sliding through paint and shaving cream—to invite the giggles and sensory discovery that define a happy classroom.

  • TEACHER, B.A.

    Crystal’s journey with FPNS began as a dedicated parent, where she spent four years deeply involved in the classroom and serving as a member of the school board. This hands-on experience in our co-operative community inspired a career pivot; while her original background is in Psychology—having earned her Bachelor of Arts from Marquette University—she chose to pursue specialized studies in Early Childhood Development at Ohlone College to transition into professional teaching.

    Background:

    Now in her second year as a full-time teacher, Crystal previously served as the school's primary substitute. She is fully certified in First Aid and CPR, combining her academic background in social psychology with years of "boots-on-the-ground" experience as a co-op parent.

    Philosophy:

    Crystal views play as a universal language and the most essential tool for learning. She loves the co-op model because it creates a space where parents can share their unique passions—whether it's digging for worms or cooking a project—with the children. Her goal is to foster independence and ensure every child feels safe enough to find their own voice.

    On a Personal Note:

    Crystal is our resident tie-dye expert! She loves expressing herself through bright colors and often hosts tie-dye events for FPNS families. Her favorite book to share is Upside-Down Sid by Dylan Shearsby, which she values for its gentle lessons on empathy and kindness.