Ms. Gillian
Lead Teacher -- Walrus
Hello! My name is Gillian, and I am the lead teacher in the walrus classroom here at Happy Feet. I am currently taking courses at CWU to obtain my master’s degree in elementary education. When I have the time, I really enjoy reading, painting, rock climbing, skydiving, dancing and camping. A fun fact about me is I am also a dance teacher!
Ms. Trinity
Lead Teacher -- Little Learners
Hi! My name is Trinity and here are a few things about me:
-My dog Vedder is my world!
-I’m graduated in the spring with my degree in sociology and social services.
-I love working with kids because I have the opportunity to make a positive impact on their lives and they are always so fun to be around.
-My biggest goal in life is to have my own non-profit organization helping children and families in poverty!
Ms. Jodie
Lead Teacher -- Penguin
Hello, my name is Jodie McCollum-Colazo. I am a Ellensburg local. I have been happily married for 16 years and am a mother of 3 amazing kids.
I am the new lead teacher in the Penguin room. So grateful to become a new face here at Happy Feet.
I am looking forward to all the fun, adventures and learning we will be doing and getting to watch your children learn and grow.
I have worked in childcare for the past 17 years. And am still loving every minute of it. I recently got some of my certifications done in Early Childhood Education.
In my free time I love to spend time with my family and friends, go swimming or movies, or take my dogs out for walks.
Ms. Ashlee
Lead Teacher -- Moose
Hello! My name is Ashlee! I am currently the lead teacher in the Moose Room and I have been with Happy Feet since summer of 2020! I am originally from Vancouver, WA but I have been in Ellensburg the last five years and I love it here! I graduated from CWU with a B.S. in Family & Child life & a specialization in Child Development. I have 3 (soon to be 4) nephews that I grew up babysitting and have been in childcare for several years now. I try to take every chance I can to get outdoors & explore or just get some fresh air! Music is also a passion of mine so expect music in the morning for your kiddos! One thing I enjoy about teaching is helping children celebrate their growth no matter how big or small it may be!
Ms. Bonnie
Lead Teacher -- Polar Bear Cubs
Hello! I have been the lead teacher in the Polar Cubs room since 2018. I love to be outside, camping and biking. I also like to say that I like hiking but if I'm honest, the only part of hiking that I really like is being outside. I also love to sew and craft! I find so much joy working with kids, especially the teensy ones because I love watching them grow and learn so fast. I have a daughter, Nora, who gets to be here at Happy Feet with me. I have 6+ years of experience in infant and toddler care and love being part of the Happy Feet Family!
Ms. Scottie
Lead Teacher -- Arctic Fox
Hi! I’m Miss Scottie who enjoys getting to know students and understanding them. I’m dedicated to many things like my career and my hobbies. During the summer I fight wildland fires and in the winter I work with children. My hobbies include jewelry making, arts and crafts, and hiking deep in the woods. After helping kids enjoy their day at daycare, I come home to my dog and give him cuddles and play fetch, especially some swimming if it’s warm enough!
Ms. Shelby
Lead Teacher -- Whales
Hi, I'm Shelby! I was born and raised in Bothell, WA. I’m the lead pre-k teacher here at Happy Feet. I graduated from CWU with a degree in Sociology, a minor in Family Science, and a certificate in Child Development. I love hanging out with the kiddos and teaching them new ideas and experiences. I previously worked in a daycare for the YMCA in Mill Creek, WA where I was able to work with children from infant through 5 years old, while most frequently working with the older groups. I enjoy going on hikes and spending time outdoors with my friends and family as well as doing fun crafts that I would like to incorporate in the classroom with different art and science projects!
Ms. Taylor
Site Director -- Grace Episcopal
Hello! My name is Taylor and I am the new Grace Episcopal Site Director. I am a Central Washington University graduate and have lived in Ellensburg for almost 8 years! While I was finishing up school, I had the opportunity to work at Happy Feet Academy as a lead and assistant teacher. I have a passion for serving youth in our community and I am excited to rejoin the Happy Feet Team! When I'm not at work I enjoy hanging out with friends, spending time in Winthrop, WA, and reading a good book!
Ms. Bailey
Site Director -- Birth to 5 Site
Hello! I am the assistant director and have been a part of the Happy Feet family since March of 2020. I was born and raised here in Ellensburg and have loved every minute of being a part of the community. I graduated from Central Washington University with a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education and a minor in Special Education. I have been working in childcare since 2017 and quickly found that my passion is helping young kiddos grow. In my free time my husband, our two dogs, and soon to be little guy Reilly love to spend time outdoors whether it is camping, dirt biking, or simply just being outdoors.