Teachers

My name is Penny and I am the 2/3’s teacher. I am also the toddler teacher for the Family Life Education Departments Infant/ Toddler program. I received my ECE degree at Edmonds Community College and I take great pride in being a lifelong learner. 

A part of my lifelong learner journey began when I attended Northwest Teachers Conference for several years. When this gathering came to an end, Green Mountain Teachers Camp was created. NWTC sparked my active learning of music, movement, writing, creative art and much more. This passion continues to be sparked at GMTC. Now I lead small groups at GMTC for early morning walks and frequently lead a group to build a labyrinth from downed branches. 

I have been skiing for about 10 years and my first ski instructor modeled complete support and unconditional positive regard towards me as I was learning at my own pace. My dad also modeled this unconditional positive regard throughout his life with me. I know what if feels like to receive it and I actively model it within my classrooms. I enjoy creating environments and activities for children to explore with their parents while they create memories together. I truly delight in observing each child in my class and discovering their individual traits and preferences. I value parent input and concerns, and I enjoy incorporating parent’s ideas into our class's curriculum. 

During my downtime from work you may find me on my yoga mat, skiing, day hiking and/ or overnight hiking, climbing stairs or training for a run.

My name is Brenda Luft, and I am the 3/4's teacher. I have my Associates degree in Early Childhood Education, and I have been working with children for 15+ years. I have had many jobs working with children such as child care settings, Developmental Preschool, and working with children in grades Kindergarten up to 5th grade in a behavior program. I have to say my favorite age group is Preschool! I love to see how much children grow and learn at this age and watch them become their own person. I enjoy crafts and science and just having fun all while teaching. I am excited to get to know all of you and make a memorable year for your child and family.

My name is Ophelia Howley, and I am very excited to be your Pre-K teacher at CFF! My husband and I have two boys, 11 and 7, who both attended CFF. I am very passionate about the play based co-op model (I was a co-op kid!) and the benefits for our children and communities.  I served 5 years on the board in various positions as well as subbing for Teacher Dina. Last spring, I stepped up to finish out the year after Dina left and I really enjoyed it. I love to garden, hike, read and spend time at the beach.  My personal passion for our natural world bleeds into my curriculum quite a bit so if you have a kiddo who loves bugs and plants, they are in luck! I look forward to getting to know you all!