Our Teachers

Mrs. Vicki

I have had the privilege of working in the childcare field for 35 years, and it has been a truly rewarding journey. I spent 10 years as the Head Teacher in the Fox Class, followed by 6 years working in the office, where I gained valuable experience in the administrative side of childcare.

My journey eventually led me to become a Director, allowing me to bring together everything I have learned throughout the years. I have truly enjoyed every part of my career and have learned so much from the children, families, and wonderful staff I have had the opportunity to work with.

I feel very fortunate to have spent my career doing something I love and to continue making a positive difference in the lives of children and families.

Mrs. Raquel

My name is Mrs. Raquel, lead teacher in the Ringtailed Raccoon classroom. I am bilingual with 27 years of experience with a strong educational foundation in Early Childhood Development. Out of those 27 years, I’ve been working at Redwood Forest Preschool for the last 20 years.

My classroom runs on consistency, clear expectations and gentle guidance. Most importantly, I am a fun-loving teacher who knows that laughter, learning and sharing the love of Jesus go hand in hand. With a strong belief in positive guidance and encouragement, I am here to guide each child to grow academically, socially and emotionally in an uplifting environment.

Ms. Breanna

I am a passionate preschool teacher with many years of experience working with young children. I love creating a warm, welcoming classroom where children feel safe to explore, learn, and grow.

My goal is to help each child develop confidence, curiosity, and a love for learning through play, creativity, and positive relationships. Working with children is truly rewarding, and I enjoy supporting them as they reach important developmental milestones.

Mrs. Raina

My name is YongQi Ruan (Raina). I was born in China and moved to the U.S. when I was seventeen. I speak Cantonese, Mandarin, and English. Working with young children has always been a passion of mine. I studied Early Childhood Education here in the U.S. and hold an Associate Degree in Child Development along with a teacher permit. 

I’ve worked in the field of early childhood education for several years, and been in Redwood Forest for six months. I’m thrilled to join Redwood Forest Preschool and be a teacher in the Ringtailed Raccoon classroom. I enjoy observing children to understand their interests and developmental needs. I look forward to partnering with you to support your child’s growth and development during these important early years.

Ms. Brianna

Hello, my name is Ms. Brianna, I used to be a substitute teacher for Redwood Forest in all classrooms. I enjoy working with every age and getting to know all our Redwood Forest Preschool families. Currently, I am a proud busy bunny teacher. I look forward to teaching your child and watching as they develop and make fun, enriching memories while building their skills.

Ms. Erica

Hi I am Erica, I have over 20yrs of teaching experience across various grade levels, with Transitional Kindergarten being my favorite. I was born and raised in Castro Valley and earned my degree from California State University East Bay and I am passionate about early childhood education.

I am a fun, energetic, caring and compassionate teacher who is dedicated to supporting both the academic and social-emotional growth for my students. I live locally with my two sons and feel grateful to serve the community I call home.

Ms. Jen

Hello, my name is Ms. Jen, I have been working at Redwood Forest Preschool for 9yrs. I work as a sub and part-time. I have been working with children since I was in high school. I received my ECE units through Chabot College, and I love working with children.

Joy

I am Joy Song, and I feel truly fortunate to serve as a teacher here at Redwood Forest Preschool. My genuine passion lies in nurturing and guiding young minds. Over the past three decades, I have dedicated myself to working with children, serving as a Sunday school teacher, overseeing children’s ministry, and working as a preschool teacher. Additionally, I am a mother of two boys who are currently in college.

My educational background includes a Bachelor of Arts degree in education and a Master of Arts degree in Christian education for children. I am exceptionally eager to support your children as they embark on their learning journey.

My role here is to assist in creating a secure, nurturing, and stimulating environment for them. In particular, I have always held a profound affection for engaging young children in art and craft activities. I want you to understand that your child’s creative endeavors are highly valued and cherished. In the coming months, you will witness your child’s artistic confidence and skills blossom.

I am genuinely excited to witness their growth and be a part of their creative journey. I’m excited to bring my passion for creativity and Bible stories into our classroom and look forward to a wonderful year.

Ms. Krissy

Hi, I’m Miss Krissy. I am currently completing my final units in Early Childhood Education and working toward my associate degree. I am passionate about child development and dedicated to creating a nurturing, supportive classroom where children feel safe, valued, and encouraged to grow.

I believe strong partnerships with families are essential to children's success, and I strive to build meaningful connections that support each child's development.

Coming from a large family, I value community, relationships, and the importance of fostering a sense of belonging. I look forward to continuing my journey in early childhood education and making a positive impact in the lives of the children and families I serve.

Ms. Layla

Hello, My name is Layla, and I am the Head Teacher of the Beaver Classroom at Redwood Forest. I have been a part of the Redwood Community for over four years and has served in a lead teacher role for the past year. I hold an associate’s degree in psychology and am currently pursuing my bachelors degree in psychology with a minor in child development.

I bring over five years of experience working with young children and I am committed to fostering a structured, supportive, and engaging learning environment.

My goal is to support each child’s social, emotional, and academic development while encouraging curiosity, independence, and a love for learning. I look forward to partnering with families and supporting each child’s growth throughout the school year.

Ms. Ashlyn

Hi, I’m Miss Ashlyn! I’m excited to be a part of the Redwood Forest community. I actually attended preschool at Redwood Forest, so this school has been a special part of my life for many years. I’ve also had the opportunity to work here whenever I’m home from college, and I’m grateful to continue being part of the school community.

I have completed my Early Childhood Education Certificate and am currently attending college, where I’m majoring in Children and Family Ministry. I plan to graduate in Fall 2027 with my Bachelor’s degree, and I’m looking forward to exploring where this next chapter takes me.

I have several years of experience working with children and truly enjoy creating meaningful connections with them. I’m excited to spend time with your children, support their learning and growth, and be a positive and caring presence whenever I’m home during my college breaks.

Mrs. Emily

Hello, families! My name is Mrs. Emily, and I am so happy to be one of the Fox teachers this year. Redwood Forest has been my home for the past three years, and I am truly thrilled to continue teaching here. Over the years, I’ve had the joy of teaching in the Bunny, Beaver, and Fox classrooms, and sometimes floating to help in the Honey Bear and Raccoon groups.

For the past two years, I’ve been a Fox teacher, and I’ve especially loved working with our 2.5–3.5-year-olds. This stage of childhood is such a precious one—I believe this age is the cutest, and I love watching the children grow, discover, and blossom each day.

Before moving to the United States about seven years ago with my husband, I was an elementary school teacher in China for many years. Since immigrating, I’ve continued following my passion for education by working in preschools and completing my Early Childhood Education classes here in the U.S. I am now a fully qualified preschool teacher, grateful to be part of this wonderful community. I am looking forward to another year of laughter, learning, and growing together with your children.

It is truly a joy to serve alongside the other amazing Fox teachers and to be part of your child’s journey here at Redwood Forest.

Vera

My name is Vera, I am a Teacher Assistant at Redwood Forest Preschool, where I have served the past 3 yrs. I am a graduate of Emanuel Bible institute in Romania with a bachelor’s degree in social work and theology. Previously, I was a teacher at the college of theology and education in the Republic of Moldova and the Academic Dean of the Social Work Department.

I have worked with children from socially vulnerable families, including orphans and children with special needs. I am married and have three adult children.

As an independent educator, I homeschooled our children for 12 years and worked as a caregiver for 20 years. I especially enjoy working with children ages 2-3.5 years old because this stage is full of rapid growth, language, social skills, independence, and curiosity. I love supporting toddlers through routines, play-based learning, and warmth, consistent guidance as they gain confidence and learn to express themselves. I enjoy partnering with teachers and families at Redwood Forest Preschool. I believe children are a precious gift from God and a blessing to the teachers who care for them every day.

I enjoy supporting the lead teacher and working together as one classroom family. I like the faith-based environment where I can serve with kindness, respect, and Christian values.

Ms. Sasha

Hi! My name is Ms. Sasha, and I’m so happy to be the Lead Teacher in the Honey Bears classroom! I have been part of the Redwood Forest family for over four years, but my connection to this school goes back much further. Several members of my family have worked here over the years, and my grandparents were involved in the founding of the school. Because of this, Redwood Forest has always held a very special place in my heart.

I have been working in the childcare field for over 20 years as a Preschool Teacher and Nanny. I have a background in Early Childhood Development and Education, and I truly love working with young children.

The majority of my time at Redwood Forest has been with the Honey Bears, although I also spent one year with the Raccoon class. I’m especially excited to continue my journey with the Honey Bears as Lead Teacher. This age group is one of my favorites! I love their curiosity, creativity, enthusiasm, and the excitement they bring to each day. It is such a special time in their development, and I feel very fortunate to be a part of it.

In our classroom, I believe learning happens through both intentional teaching and meaningful play. We work on important academic skills such as early literacy, language, writing, numbers, counting, problem-solving, and building a strong foundation for kindergarten. At the same time, we focus on the whole child by helping children develop social and emotional skills—learning how to express their feelings, communicate their needs, make friends, work together, solve conflicts, become more independent, and show kindness and empathy toward others.

I love that I get to be a positive part of these young lives and help teach important life lessons—not only through academics, but also by helping children grow into amazing, strong, confident, and caring little people. My hope is that each child leaves our classroom feeling loved, supported, capable, and excited to learn, while continuing to grow, include others, be kind, and show love to everyone around them.

Mrs. Adelina

Hi families! My name is Mrs.Adelina, and I’m so excited to be part of your child’s early education. I have over 10 years of experience working with children, and I truly enjoy what I do. I love creating a classroom that feels loving, fun, and welcoming for every child. I’m a proud mom to a 6-year-old, so I understand how important it is for parents to feel comfortable and confident leaving their little ones in someone else’s care. My goal is to help each child feel confident, and excited to come to school while supporting their growth.

Jordan

Hi! My name is Jordan. I started working at Redwood Forest Preschool in March of 2026. I started out part-time, but I now work full time. I graduated from CVHS in 2026, and I am now majoring in Early Childhood Development at Chabot College. I love working with children because of their joy. I believe that children’s curiosity and their nature to explore, question and grow should be celebrated.

Ms. Kitty

I’m a 41-year-old woman, with over 20 years of experience working in early childhood education. I’ve spent two decades teaching preschool, which has taught me patience, creativity, flexibility, and the very important skill of negotiating with tiny humans who somehow have extremely strong opinions about snacks. 😂

Family is important to me. I’m the youngest sister with two older brothers, so I grew up with plenty of personality, teasing, and probably more sibling stories than I should admit. I don’t have children of my own, but working with children has been a huge and meaningful part of my life.

Outside of work, I’m a big music lover and enjoy having a soundtrack for just about every occasion. 🎶 I’m also a proud video-game enthusiast. Yes, I’m 41 and still play video games—and no, I have absolutely no plans to stop. 🎮 Growing older is inevitable; growing up is optional.

My favorite color is red ❤️ because apparently my personality needed a color that matched it. I’m hardworking, loyal, compassionate, independent, and always up for a good laugh. I believe life is about continuing to learn, staying true to yourself, enjoying the people around you, and finding plenty of reasons to laugh along the way.