Meet Our Teachers

Caitlin Mason

Yellow/Orange Class  (2&3 and 3&4 year old classes)

I was born and raised Washington native.  I grew up in the San Juan Islands and graduated from the Evergreen State College.  Passionate about early childhood education, I am excited to combine the latest research with the tried-and-true methods for teaching young children.  The cooperative model of preschool is a unique setting that gives children the freedom to learn through play and allows their parents to experience their child’s early education first hand.

When I’m not in the classroom, I enjoy the out-of-doors, from hiking with family and friends, to long walks with my dog.

In more than a decade of teaching, it remains my goal to help children build a strong foundation for their upcoming years of education and to instill in them a deep joy for learning.

Kaylene Smith

Red Class (4&5 year old class)

I was born and raised in Olympia. I have a Master of Arts in Teaching from Willamette University. I am a former elementary school teacher and have taught Pre-K, Kindergarten, first grade and reading.

In choosing co-op preschool for my own son, I knew that the developmentally appropriate, child-centered environment would provide an engaging learning experience for him. As a parent, I found being involved in a strong, loving community centered on our children to be enriching and rewarding.

As a teacher, I especially enjoy supporting emerging literacy and math skills through play-based and hands-on activities. I strongly believe children learn essential social, emotional, and cognitive skills through play.

When not in the classroom, I love exploring low-tides, reading, dog walks in my neighborhood, and being with my family.