Kimberly Palmer, Director and Lead Teacher

Kimberly Palmer has been an early childhood educator since 1989 and has a well-rounded educational background in early childhood education, art, and psychology. Her philosophy is deeply rooted in a fusion of theories, including Reggio Emilia, Constructivism, and Waldorf. Teaching at larger schools in California and Portland for many years, Kim felt the need to provide a smaller more nurturing environment for children. After co-founding and teaching at Wildflower Preschool for seven years, Kim established the Willow Tree Preschool in her own home.

Tina Kennedy, Co-Teacher

Tina Kennedy started as a teacher at Willow Tree Preschool in 2008.  She graduated from Luther College in Iowa with a double major in Business Management and Psychology, with an emphasis on Child Psychology. Prior to Willow Tree, Tina transitioned from businesswoman to mother, which led her to discover her passion for teaching children. She finds inspiration and fulfillment daily in the nurturing environment of Willow Tree and endless creativity of the children. For Tina, her journey to teaching has been filled with growth in both knowledge and skills, and a tremendous amount of joy, spirit, and giggles

Aubry Larson, Co-Teacher

Aubry Larson began working at Willow Tree Preschool in 2011 as an intern. Her natural talent for understanding children and delight in her work at Willow Tree was apparent—she was hired as a teacher later that year. Born and raised in Oregon, Aubry enjoys an active outdoor life and is eager to share her extensive knowledge of the natural world with the children. From an early age, she felt drawn to work in early childhood education and completed a degree in the Child and Family Studies Program at Portland State University. Aubry appreciates what a gift it is that in her daily work she is able to experience the remarkable joy of children.

Catherine Dart:
Consulting Yoga Instructor

Introducing Yoga to children at a young age is a gift to them. Not only do they build a strong and flexible physical foundation, but more importantly, upon that foundation, the child begins to know and develop a sense of self and build upon their feeling of centeredness and self worth. Catherine Dart started teaching Yoga in New York and has been teaching since 2000. She joins us at The Willow Tree every week, teaching us Yoga for children in her fun dynamic style.

Elizabeth Craig:
Consulting Art Instructor
Owner, Art in Motion Studio

Elizabeth Craig is an accomplished ceramic and mixed media artist who has worked with children and adults for over 25 years. Elizabeth’s background includes in depth study of the pedagogy of the early childhood schools of Reggio Emila, Italy. Additionally, she was a founding member of the Opal Charter School Development Team, which shares the mission of the Portland Children’s Museum. As a consulting art teacher, Elizabeth supports the children's natural curiosity and development through an effortless process of inquiry and reflection that deepens a meaningful exploration of the arts. Her passion for play, whimsy, and the combining of mixed media provided limitless inspiration for both the children and teachers at Willow Tree Preschool. Her private studio, Art in Motion, offers classes for both children and adults.