Bel Red Staff

My name is Julie. Grew up in Spokane, lived in Ohio and moved to Seattle in 2004. I have worn many hats over the years and found Birch Tree while working at Starbucks. Decided to interview Natalie (the owner) for my non profit and viola, six years later I am now Director (completed my BAS in Early Child Care too).

I have 4 beautiful daughters ranging from 8 years to 22. I love to read, travel, listen to music, dance, visit with friends and family and only "think" about working out. I do love all fur babies but gravitate more towards cats with 2 at home. Excited to be a part of school that prides itself on finding ways to provide opportunities for professional development to all of their staff and creative ways to educate children to prepare them for their next chapter.

My name is Oksana, and I’m from Ukraine. I studied economics, but I’ve always felt that teaching is my true calling. I’ve spent most of my career working with children, and I really enjoy helping them learn and grow. I also love learning new things myself and try to bring that love of learning into the classroom.

I’m happy to be part of Birch Tree Academy and excited to work with such a great team and wonderful kids.

My name is Natalia. I am originally from Ukraine and have been living in the United States for over two years. I worked for two years at a daycare center in Renton, where I truly enjoyed being with children and supporting their early development.

I am a warm, friendly, and responsible person. I love working with children and have a natural ability to connect with them. I’m also a proud mother of two adult children and a grandmother.

People often describe me as communicative, reliable, and proactive. I enjoy being part of a team and always do my best to create a positive and caring environment.

Hello! My name is Ksenia. I was born in Russia and now live in the beautiful state of Washington. I've been working with children for many years, and I have a strong background as an educator at an art school. I'm a proud mom of two wonderful sons — and one beloved cat! I enjoy cooking, traveling, and spending quality time with my family. I'm passionate about bringing creativity and variety into children's lives and supporting their growth and development. I'm always happy to help and excited to share my experience and care with others.

 I am Marta, I am from Ukraine, from the city Lviv, and I am 23 years old. I really love spending time with kids; I previously worked with children as a nanny for 1 year. I was raised in a large family, and I believe that is why I love children and because of their bright spirits. I have learned a lot from childcare, and I have a lot of experience and can’t wait to learn more at Birch Tree Academy. 

Hi, I’m Megan! I’ve spent much of my career working in both early childhood education and customer service, where I’ve had the chance to teach, mentor, and build meaningful connections with families, children, and coworkers alike. I love creating positive environments where people can grow, whether that’s in a classroom full of curious little learners or as part of a supportive team. At home, life is wonderfully busy with my husband, our son, two dogs, and a cat. When I have free time, you can usually find me curled up with a good book, working on a crochet project, or spending time outside enjoying fresh air and new adventures with my family.

 Hi there! My name is Sarah, and I’m honored to be working with young children and shaping their minds! I’ve worked with children in many different ways for 16 years now. I love music and singing! I also love exploring and trying new things! I’ve lived up in auburn for a few years now, but I’m originally from the Olympia area. 

Hi! I am so excited to be here with this amazing team! I know it may sound cliché, but teaching young children is my passion. Teaching is my hobby - and what I am happiest doing! I have taught ages 10 months - 12 years, but ages 3-6 will forever be my favorite! I have 6 years of experience in teaching young children, and I am looking forward to many, many more! My favorite thing about teaching is seeing the immediate difference a fun lesson can make in a child's life! I recently moved up to Washington from Idaho, where I grew up. In my free time you can find me exploring both here, and all the areas around us! I love a good adventure, and I am always looking to know your favorite spots around our beautiful state! I am a dog mom to a beautiful german shepard named Nugget, and I am very family oriented. I’m also a foodie, so if you've got any favorite spots to eat around here, let me know! I absolutely cannot wait to get to know you and your child, and watch them grow to their fullest potential!

Hello everyone! I'm Miss Emily. I have worked at Birch Tree collectively for 3 years! I started working with children when  was just 15 years old and have been pursing childcare for roughly 8 years. I have taught just about every age going from 3 months up to Kindergarten. I have loved every second of it! I enjoy getting to be silly with kiddos and join in all the fun and games. Some of my personal interests include listening to music and attending concerts, traveling, playing Dungeons & Dragons, getting lost in a good book or enjoying anything fantasy related! I look forward to getting to know you and your kiddos!

Hi, I’m Katya! I’m an early childhood educator with extensive experience working with young children and different age groups.

I hold a higher education degree and have professional experience in several fields. From a very early age, I’ve always found it easy to connect with young children, understand their needs, and sense their emotions, which naturally led me to work in early childhood education. My mother has been working as a school teacher for over 25 years, and teaching has always been an important part of my life.

I’m also a mom to a young daughter, which allows me to understand children’s needs both professionally and from a family perspective.