Enrollment
A child must be at least 2 years old to be admitted to the school. All children younger than three will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis to determine their readiness to attend school. We offer a multi-age learning environment, and therefore it is very important that younger children are ready for the program. Petaluma Village Preschool serves 2 year olds to entry into first grade. Our program is limited to thirty-eight (38) students at any given time and therefore space is limited. If no immediate opening exists, the child will be placed on a waiting list, upon receipt of an application and application fee. A parent and child interview is required for admission. Parent and child must tour the school prior to enrollment. We welcome and embrace families from all walks of life. We absolutely do not discriminate against any prospective family on the grounds of race, color, religion, nationality, family type, or socioeconomic status. In fact, we strive to create a robust, diverse, multi-cultural classroom.
I was raised in sunny Petaluma. My parents and most of my family still reside here today. Our family is very involved within the community, some own businesses, while others are also in the field of education. Even before graduating from high school I recognized my passion to work with children through employment at a local preschool. I went on to further my education in Early Childhood Development in which I hold an AA. Shortly after I attended Sacramento State in which I majored in Liberal Studies.
I continued my career at another renowned preschool in Penngrove, where I was Head Pre-Kindergarten teacher. My every day encounters with the children and assisting the Director lead me to envision having my own preschool.
Today I proudly own Petaluma Village Preschool. I am in the classroom everyday applying and implementing all the wonderful concepts I have learned. Together with an amazing staff and astounding parents, we are able to continue to make Petaluma Village a magnificent, nurturing and thriving school for all children. My greatest reward is the smile on a child’s face.
Casey Schmidt - Owner
County West
At a glance:
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2 classroom school. Toddler room with children age 18-36 months and our preschool room with children 3 years to entry into 1st grade.
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A 12:1 Child/Teacher Ratio and an 8:1 Child/Adult Ratio in our Preschool room and 6:1 Child/Teacher Ratio and 5:1 Child/Adult Ratio in our Toddler room
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Intimate Program Size
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Developmentally Appropriate Practice
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Multi-Cultural and Multi-Lingual Learning Environment
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A Reggio Emilia Inspired Classroom
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Morning, Afternoon + Full Day Program
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Healthy, Organic Snacks
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Vibrant Parent Community
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We offer Spanish, French, gymnastics and clay work
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Hours from 8:00am-6:00pm
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A country school setting surrounded by dairy cow grazing land
Our Team
Clare Burns - Director
I was born and raised on my Grandparents chicken farm in Zimbabwe. I loved spending my time outside climbing trees, playing in the dirt and making potions in my mud kitchen. Not much has changed. I moved to the United States in my mid twenties and fell in love with the Bay Area. I worked as a Nanny, ran a Home Daycare and subbed at our local Preschool. My two sons were born in San Francisco and we moved to Petaluma in 2004.
While my sons were little I decided to go back to college and complete my degree in Social and Behavioral Science and Early Childhood Education. When I graduated I was lucky enough to be hired as the Director at my son's Preschool and I have been Teaching and Directing ever since. I have learned so much about Early Education in a variety of programs, but the one I most connect with is the Reggio Emilia Approach. I have been working and learning about this joyful and child centered philosophy for the last 8 years and I look forward to sharing it with you. I am honored to be a part of this wonderful community.
I have been a resident of Penngrove for more then 35 years. I graduated from Marymount Manhattan College in New York and moved to California as a young adult. When my sons began attending preschool, I volunteered to introduce the students to Spanish. Shortly thereafter, I was given the opportunity to create a foreign language program at the school. When they began elementary school, I had an additional opportunity to introduce a new school community to Spanish. During this time I created school events celebrating diversity and assembled a collection of over 400 books of Spanish/English literature. I wanted to expose my children and other children to the language and culture that I had inherited from my Puerto Rican parents. Twenty years later, I have begun a new chapter in my life. I returned to school and earned 12 ECE units. I have a great interest in literature which I enjoy sharing. I also have a passion for teaching and a love of children.
Nilsa Reischmann - Spanish Teacher
Hello! I’m Kristen Pellonari. I’m a mom of three daughters (16, 13, and 9). I am originally from Las Vegas, NV, but have lived all across the country. In August 2023, we moved to Petaluma to be closer to family after my husband, Zach, retired from the Air Force.
I have a Bachelors in Sociology from SDSU and am an Air Force veteran myself. I was a stay at home mom for over 10 years. When I re-entered the work force I started working at my daughter’s preschool in Louisiana. Since day one, I have absolutely loved being a preschool teacher.
I am so grateful I found the Petaluma Village Preschool East family. I am excited to meet you and your little one!
Kristen Pellonari - Teacher
Hello! My name is Rachelle Perez, and I'm thrilled to begin my journey at Petaluma Village Preschool! I was born and raised in Petaluma, California, and although I currently live in Rohnert Park, Petaluma will always be home. I'm attending Santa Rosa Junior College, with the goal of becoming a TK teacher. I've always enjoyed working with children, especially with my siblings. I am the middle child! two older brothers and two younger sisters and many cousins. However, these past two years working at an elementary school have solidified my passion for teaching and confirmed that this is what I want to do for the rest of my life.
In my free time, I babysit my boyfriend's nieces, children from my school, and anyone else who needs help. I love being able to assist people, and seeing them smile brings me so much joy. I also love to sing, read, and listen to music! I'm excited to bring my knowledge and kindness to Petaluma Village Preschool, and I'm coming with an open heart, mind, and arms.
Rachelle Perez - Teacher Aide
Hello! The children calls me Miss Nene. It’s an honor to be part of the PVP family, where I have the joy of connecting with your little ones and watching them grow.
My own journey has been shaped by diverse experiences across the globe—born in Japan, raised in Montreal (where I attended a French Lycée), and later earning a BA in Art History from McGill University. My love for creativity led me to study Landscape Design and Ceramics at Radcliffe College in Massachusetts before embracing the most rewarding role of all: being a full-time mom on the Sonoma Coast.
When my son reached third grade, I discovered a new passion—teaching ceramics in after-school enrichment programs. This inspired me to deepen my understanding of early childhood education, and in 2021, I earned my Teacher Certificate in Child Development from Santa Rosa Junior College.
Beyond the classroom, I adore ceramics, gardening, and cooking. My son, a dedicated violinist since age four, shares his music with the children here as a PVP volunteer.
What I cherish most is how children remind us to embrace curiosity, creativity, and the magic of the present moment. I’m thrilled to bring my love of art, nature, and French language into their days, nurturing each child’s unique spark. Let’s explore, learn, and grow together!
Miss Nene - Art & French Teacher
I have completed 27 units in Early Childhood Education (ECE) and pursued my Associate of Arts degree at Santa Rosa Junior College. My academic and professional development includes coursework in leadership and personnel administration, strengthening my ability to effectively support and guide teams in educational settings.
In addition, I completed the Teaching Pyramid training through the Sonoma County Office of Education (SCOE), equipping me with strategies to promote social-emotional development and positive behavior in young children. I am also a certified YCC Coach and a Community Health Worker (CHW), reflecting my commitment to supporting families, fostering community well-being, and enhancing the quality of early childhood education.
Miss Natalie - Teacher
Hi PVP families, my name is Anja! I was born and raised in Petaluma and have loved every part of living here. When I’m not in the classroom I enjoy spending time thrifting fun knick knacks, tending to my garden and hanging with my animals. I attended SRJC to obtain my Early Childhood Education units. I love my time spent at all the different locations of Petaluma Village Preschool and the families that come with them!
Anja Hultquist - Teacher
Downtown
At a glance:
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A Multi-Age Classroom
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A 12:1 Child/Teacher Ratio and an 8:1 Child/Adult Ratio
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Intimate Program Size Limited to Thirty-Eight Students
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Developmentally Appropriate Practice
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Multi-Cultural and Multi-Lingual Learning Environment
-
A Reggio Emilia Inspired Classroom
-
Morning, Afternoon + Full Day Program
-
Healthy, Organic Snacks
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Lunches provided by the school
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Vibrant Parent Community
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We offer Spanish, French, gymnastics and clay work
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Hours are 7:30-5:30
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Centrally located minutes from downtown.
Hello, my name is Rebecca Lauchenauer! I was born and raised in Marin County and now live in Petaluma. I graduated from California State University, Chico in 2019 with a Bachelor’s degree in Child Development.
I began babysitting in middle school and quickly found my passion for working with children. Since then, I’ve gained experience in nannying, summer camps, aftercare programs, and preschool teaching. I’ve been part of the Petaluma Village community since October 2024 and currently am the Director at our Oak Street location.
I am passionate about creating a nurturing and engaging environment where children feel safe, supported, and excited to learn. One of my favorite parts of this work is that while we are teaching them, the children are always teaching us right back.
Becca Lauchenauer (Director)
Hello my name is Kimberly Grayson. I have been teaching children in family daycare and preschool environments for over 15 years. With three children of my own, working with children is a true passion of mine.
I graduated from CSU Sacramento with a Bachelor of Arts in Social Science, emphasis upon psychology, government and sociology. I received my Associative Teacher Certificate at Santa Rosa Junior College. I have also attended a series of Early Childhood workshops and look forward to participating in more.
In my free time, I enjoy hiking with my husband, gardening, reading a good book and cooking exciting new dishes for my family and friends. My children and their various school/sporting activities are also a large part of my life. I truly love being a part of a child’s growth and development. Watching and participating in this important stage in their lives is both an honor and privilege that I cherish in my teaching experiences.
Kim Grayson (Teacher)
Hi everyone! My name is Daysha and I'm so happy to join Petaluma Village Preschool team. I’m a graduate of California State University Sacramento, with a bachelor's in Health Science with plans to return to school to complete my nursing degree. While in college I was a student-athlete on the track and field team. While competing I was able to participate in summer camps that helped middle school kids develop their own interests in sports that they otherwise might not have the opportunity to try in Sacramento County. I was also able to take child and development classes while in school. This greatly influenced me to pursue working with children full-time.
I am so happy to meet and get to know all the Petaluma Village Preschool families, and I’m excited for the amazing school years to come
Daysha Ford (Teacher)
Anela Hollis (Teacher)
Hello everyone! My name is Anela Hollis. I was born in Maui, Hawaii and moved to Sebastopol, California when I was five years old. I graduated from San Francisco State in 2015 with a MA in Museum Studies with an emphasis in Education and worked at the Children’s Museum of Sonoma County for several years as their outreach assistant. I discovered how much I loved working with and playing with younger children and earned my ECE Associate Teacher’s certificate from the Santa Rosa Junior College in 2019.
As a teacher and educator, I strongly believe in letting children guide me in their play and learning and helping them foster their own sense of self-confidence and independence by allowing them do.
Hello! The children calls me Miss Nene. It’s an honor to be part of the PVP family, where I have the joy of connecting with your little ones and watching them grow.
My own journey has been shaped by diverse experiences across the globe—born in Japan, raised in Montreal (where I attended a French Lycée), and later earning a BA in Art History from McGill University. My love for creativity led me to study Landscape Design and Ceramics at Radcliffe College in Massachusetts before embracing the most rewarding role of all: being a full-time mom on the Sonoma Coast.
When my son reached third grade, I discovered a new passion—teaching ceramics in after-school enrichment programs. This inspired me to deepen my understanding of early childhood education, and in 2021, I earned my Teacher Certificate in Child Development from Santa Rosa Junior College.
Beyond the classroom, I adore ceramics, gardening, and cooking. My son, a dedicated violinist since age four, shares his music with the children here as a PVP volunteer.
What I cherish most is how children remind us to embrace curiosity, creativity, and the magic of the present moment. I’m thrilled to bring my love of art, nature, and French language into their days, nurturing each child’s unique spark. Let’s explore, learn, and grow together!
Miss Nene - Art & French Teacher
I have been a resident of Penngrove for more then 35 years. I graduated from Marymount Manhattan College in New York and moved to California as a young adult. When my sons began attending preschool, I volunteered to introduce the students to Spanish. Shortly thereafter, I was given the opportunity to create a foreign language program at the school. When they began elementary school, I had an additional opportunity to introduce a new school community to Spanish. During this time I created school events celebrating diversity and assembled a collection of over 400 books of Spanish/English literature. I wanted to expose my children and other children to the language and culture that I had inherited from my Puerto Rican parents. Twenty years later, I have begun a new chapter in my life. I returned to school and earned 12 ECE units. I have a great interest in literature which I enjoy sharing. I also have a passion for teaching and a love of children.
Nilsa Reischmann - Spanish Teacher
My name is Shamima Haque. I have been living in Petaluma since 2011. I have one son. I used to work at Little Oaks Montessori from 2011-2014. I have a bachelors degree in Related Arts and Child Development. I have finished 6 units from Cerro Coso Community College. The first class was Intro to Infant Development and the second class was Child, Family, and Community. I love working with children and worked at Tiny Tots for 1 year and I have been working with children for over 20 years. I am excited to start working with the children of Petaluma Village Preschool.
Shamima Haque (Teacher)
My name is Rana Fakhouri. l've been living in Petaluma since 2000, I have 3 grown up kids and 2 grandkids. I used to work at Petaluma Village Preschool from (2009-2016) then I moved back home for 4 years, now I am coming back and so excited to start and take care of your little ones. I love working with Children, when I came back I worked at Tiny Tots for 2 years, and I have been working with children for more than 15 years. I have a bachelor's degree in math and child development units from Santa Rosa junior college . Can’t wait to start working with the little angels.
Rana Fakhouri (Teacher)
Hi everyone! My name is Michaela Higgins. I’m originally from Long Island, New York and just moved to Petaluma last year. I’ve been studying Early Childhood Education and working as a preschool teacher since 2024. I am working towards a Bachelor’s in Child Development and plan to eventually pursue a Masters to become a Registered Play Therapist for children.
In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my boyfriend and our dog, a pit bill named Grey. I am a lifelong dancer, particularly ballet. I have always wanted to work with children. It is an honor, joy and privilege to be part of your kids’ lives and contribute to their growth and development.
Michaela Higgins (Teacher)
Hello I’m Katie Ward, thrilled to be in your child’s education journey. I have over 30 ECE units and experience. I have a daughter and two grandchildren. I’m looking forward to meeting you and having a play base and active and hands-on learning experiences with your child.
Katie Ward (Teacher)
East
At a glance:
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A Multi-Age Classroom
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A 12:1 Child/Teacher Ratio and an 8:1 Child/Adult Ratio
-
Intimate Program Size Limited to Twenty-Three Students
-
Developmentally Appropriate Practice
-
Multi-Cultural and Multi-Lingual Learning Environment
-
A Reggio Emilia Inspired Classroom
-
Morning, Afternoon + Full Day Program
-
Healthy, Organic Snacks
-
Vibrant Parent Community
-
We offer Spanish, French, gymnastics and clay work
-
Hours 7:30-5:30
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Our Ely school is located on 6 acres with goats, chickens and alpacas that the children help care for.
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We operate primarily outdoors except for nap and special projects.
My name is Yareli, and I am excited to be a part of the team at Petaluma Village Preschool!
I graduated from Sonoma State in 2021 with a Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education with a concentration in Education. My passion for working with children began in the sixth grade while volunteering at an SCOE preschool. In high school, I volunteered at Cypress School working with students with special needs, which reinforced my commitment to pursuing a degree in this field. During my college observation courses, I had the opportunity to work with kindergarten and first-grade students, further solidifying my goal of becoming a teacher.
In my free time, I enjoy going on neighborhood walks with my husband and our baby and celebrating all of our little one's milestones. I look forward to meeting you all and having your child be a part of our village!
Yareli Pryor (Director)
Hi! I’m Magnolia Steele. I was born and raised in Petaluma, and I feel so lucky to still call this community home. Being the oldest growing up, I naturally stepped into a nurturing role early on, which is where my love for working with children first began. I continued my education at Santa Rosa Junior College, where I was able to grow that passion even more. Now, I truly love getting to spend my days with children—helping them learn, grow, and celebrate all the little moments along the way. I live in Petaluma with my partner and our dogs, and I really enjoy the balance of a fun, busy classroom and a cozy home life. Outside of school, you can usually find me reading, swimming, or out exploring and enjoying the outdoors. I can’t wait to get to know you and your children and create a warm, playful, and supportive environment together!
Magnolia Steele (Teacher)
Kassandra Parada (Teacher)
Hi everyone! My name is Kassandra Parada and I was born and raised in Marin County, however my family is from El Salvador. I have known my entire life that I wanted to work with children! I have done a little bit of everything from babysitting, nannying, camp counselor, camp unit head, and now preschool teacher! I am excited to start this new journey along side your kiddos. I am looking forward to teaching them, but also learning from them as well. I have genuinely had the best time getting to know your little ones and look forward to continuing to grow those relationships.
In my free time I enjoy spending time with my loved ones, watching basketball or baseball, and cuddling my dog, Maya! I am so happy to be here and look forward to getting to know all of you!
Hello! The children calls me Miss Nene. It’s an honor to be part of the PVP family, where I have the joy of connecting with your little ones and watching them grow.
My own journey has been shaped by diverse experiences across the globe—born in Japan, raised in Montreal (where I attended a French Lycée), and later earning a BA in Art History from McGill University. My love for creativity led me to study Landscape Design and Ceramics at Radcliffe College in Massachusetts before embracing the most rewarding role of all: being a full-time mom on the Sonoma Coast.
When my son reached third grade, I discovered a new passion—teaching ceramics in after-school enrichment programs. This inspired me to deepen my understanding of early childhood education, and in 2021, I earned my Teacher Certificate in Child Development from Santa Rosa Junior College.
Beyond the classroom, I adore ceramics, gardening, and cooking. My son, a dedicated violinist since age four, shares his music with the children here as a PVP volunteer.
What I cherish most is how children remind us to embrace curiosity, creativity, and the magic of the present moment. I’m thrilled to bring my love of art, nature, and French language into their days, nurturing each child’s unique spark. Let’s explore, learn, and grow together!
Miss Nene - Art & French Teacher
I have been a resident of Penngrove for more then 35 years. I graduated from Marymount Manhattan College in New York and moved to California as a young adult. When my sons began attending preschool, I volunteered to introduce the students to Spanish. Shortly thereafter, I was given the opportunity to create a foreign language program at the school. When they began elementary school, I had an additional opportunity to introduce a new school community to Spanish. During this time I created school events celebrating diversity and assembled a collection of over 400 books of Spanish/English literature. I wanted to expose my children and other children to the language and culture that I had inherited from my Puerto Rican parents. Twenty years later, I have begun a new chapter in my life. I returned to school and earned 12 ECE units. I have a great interest in literature which I enjoy sharing. I also have a passion for teaching and a love of children.
Nilsa Reischmann - Spanish Teacher
Hello PVP families, my name is Kearstin. Growing up I lived on the east side of Petaluma with my parents and younger brother. I went to Casa Grande High School and graduated in 2018. Since graduating, I have been continuing on with my education at Santa Rosa Junior College. I am expected to graduate December 2021 with an AA in Social and Behavioral Science and a Certificate in Early Childhood Education.
In my free time I enjoy going to the beach, hiking, working out, drawing with charcoal and spending time with my friends and family. After I graduated, I managed a health club in Cotati for two years. I started babysitting at the age of 13 and have been working with children ever since. Once I started nannying full time I realized I wanted to make a career out of working with children. I take pride in being a guide in your child’s learning journey. I am beyond grateful to be working with your children and to have the opportunity to grow alongside them. I look forward to continuing to have a positive impact on the children's growth and to new discoveries with an amazing team of teachers at PVP.