Art and Science Kids Outdoor Preschool Teachers
Joseph Flaherty
Founder and Teacher
Local children call me “Mr Flaherty”, “Teacher Jofus”, or just plain “Joe”. I moved to O’Brien in 2005 after completing my masters degree in Early Childhood Development from Southern Oregon University in Ashland. I am a certified teacher licensed by the state of Oregon. I have over a decade of experience working with young children in the Illinois Valley. I taught first grade at Evergreen Elementary School for eleven years, and I also worked at the local Head Start. I taught an after school math and science class to fourth and fifth graders, and I taught English Language Development to Spanish speaking students at the middle school and high school level. In my final years at the public schools, I sat on committees and led professional workshops on the subjects of student behavior, school improvement, and science instruction. I tutor children of all ages in subjects especially algebra, geometry, and primary grade literacy. I enjoy long hikes in the mountains, playing music with my friends, and petting my cat Roo. My favorite wilderness area is Kalmiopsis.
Bruna Pimental
Teacher
I moved to Cave Junction in 2015 all the way from Salvador, Brazil where I studied Economics. Since I became a mother in 2017, I have been advocating for my children and families. I first joined Art and Science Kids as a parent in the outdoor preschool program because I truly believe in our core values and our commitment to the children residing in the Illinois Valley. I use my bookkeeping skills to ensure our school can stay inclusive and offer high quality learning opportunities to all children in our community. My experience working here has been so fulfilling that I am currently a teacher-to-be pursuing my bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education. My favorite hobbies are enjoying the company of my family and watching my children grow!
DeyAnna Combs
Teacher
I started out as an enthusiastic stay-day parent who loves spending time with my son and his friends at Dogwood Forest. I saw the importance of after-school care and recreated the Willow Room to be a peaceful space for meditation, rest, arty, and play. In my free time, I enjoy foraging and beekeeping with my family. As a Southern Oregon Native, I am also a camping and backpacking enthusiast.