Peachblossoms Preschool (ages 3-6)
CAMI Mucino
Peachblossoms Lead Teacher (morning)
Growing up in the melting pot of Southern California and having parents that were equally culturally passionate, I found myself questioning the world and seeking my place/purpose in it. As a child, I quickly found myself deeply immersed in the mythologies of the world, beginning with Hindu, Egyptian, and Celtic mythologies. These led me to Carl Jung's psychoanalytics/archetypal language and dream analysis, Rudolf Steiner and Waldorf, and esoteric sciences, specifically Evolutionary Astrology. During my time at the University of San Francisco, I pursued a Bachelor's in Communications with a specialization in Cross-Cultural Communication.
Along the way I found myself journeying through Yin yoga teacher certification, a specialization in several esoteric systems, Alchemical Herbalism, the importance of holistic healing, and most importantly - motherhood. In this homecoming, I remembered how to live my purpose which is to walk alongside others as they remember their way home to themselves, others, and the Earth. As a parent and faculty member of The Juniper School, I truly believe that this is our passion and the heartbeat of our community, and our greatest intention for the children - that they may be nourished by an unconditionally loving space and heart-led guides that exist to support their authentic becoming so that they can live in a beautiful world that we know is possible.
Maddie DiSalvo
Peachblossoms Assistant (morning)
I have always had a passion for teaching and helping youth experience life in a fun and creative way. Growing up, I’ve always wanted to be someone who could inspire and make others feel empowered with their own strengths and uniqueness in life. In my freetime, I enjoy crafting and creating art, practicing yoga, and connecting with nature. I also teach BodyFlow, a yoga-style fitness class, at the YMCA which brings me peace and serenity. I graduated from The Ohio State University with my Bachelor’s in Social Work in May of 2022 and received my LSW soon after. During my time at OSU, my internships allowed me to gain perspective working with individuals from all backgrounds, as I supported youth and have always been an advocate for mental health. I feel gravitated towards Waldorf education, as my own perspective and values in life reflect with the essence of Waldorf principles. It feels so natural for me to be apart of the Juniper community, and I plan on going back to school to pursue my Master’s Degree in Waldorf education.
Lea Aldag
Peachblossoms Lead Teacher (afternoon)
I am originally from a small town in Cocoa Beach, Florida. I moved to California at 16 to work as a Huntington Beach Ocean Rescue Guard for 10 years. Throughout that time I started working with children during my slow season and I discovered a love for this work.
I studied Early Childhood Education at Saddleback College in Orange County. When my husband and I moved to Colorado, I found the Boulder Waldorf School and felt right at home. We moved to Columbus to be near family and the minute I found The Juniper School, I knew that I had found my community of people. My heart belongs to the Waldorf way!
Rosebuds Preschool (ages 3-6)
Jeny Kuss
Rosebuds Lead Teacher
I grew up among the pines in Alexandria, Ohio which inspired my magnetism toward nature and the outdoor world. I studied sociology and community studies at the University of Colorado before a multicultural study in Australia, completing my undergraduate work. I lived and had my first daughter in Oregon, enjoying the green moss and of the Pacific Northwest. There, I spent my working hours coordinating special needs international adoptions and free time on the mountain and enjoying the creativity that surrounds the area.
After moving back to Ohio, I found the Juniper School. There is a richness and depth here that truly cultivates kindness, compassion, imagination and critical thought. The Juniper School is a warm place filled with beautiful, teachers and community members whose passion and authenticity inspire me daily.
When I’m not spending time with my two girls, I can be found dreaming up travel adventures or in Alexandria, OH hosting weddings and events at my family’s historic barn.
Grace Rampersaud
Rosebuds Assistant (morning)
Last year, I had the opportunity to complete an internship at the Juniper school and discovered that my passion in life is working with kids. I have always felt a strong connection with kids and have grown to appreciate how being around them encourages me to be my most authentic self.
A few of my greatest passions include connecting with nature through rock climbing, yoga, hiking, and holistic and spiritual well-being. I feel a strong connection to the outdoors and would love to help these kids learn about and explore the world as they immerse themselves in similar environments.
Some of my most beautiful blessings in life have been seeking the unknown, building community, and gaining the freedom to express my most true self. I have a love for many things and am so grateful to have the chance to spread that love within a community I feel so passionately about. I hope to bring my passions and experiences with me while working with the Juniper community as a whole.
Waterlilies Kindergarten (ages 5 and 6)
Amruta Ghanekar
Waterlilies Lead Teacher
In my pursuit of new creative endeavors, I was excited to find the Waldorf Kindergarten Teacher opportunity with The Juniper School. As a progressive professional with Waldorf Kindergarten experience, I believe that I can bring valuable contributions to the faculty. My philosophy is that introducing fresh perspectives and new techniques allow schools to evolve and grow. I am Certified Walforf Kindergarten Teacher who fosters growth and development in children while encouraging strong connection with families. I strive to be a teacher who connects to the young child at multiple levels -body, soul and spirit, which enables to create an environment of love, care and warmth for the learning to unfold in the most natural way.
Tiffany Jackson
Waterlilies Assistant
I grew up in Pennsylvania and am happy to be in Columbus with my four children (But I can often be found driving back to Pittsburgh to visit family!) My professional background is in art and graphic design. I’ve also worked in a natural food coop and appreciate the balance and health that comes with eating fresh and local. I am humbled to be a part of this school. I look forward to watching the children learn and grow in this wonderful healthy and peaceful space.
Poppies: Grade One
Kate Curlis
Grade One Lead Teacher
I am from rural Wyandot County, Ohio and was raised on a farm that has been in my family since the 1880’s. I have been teaching for 20 years: with Peace Corps Thailand, as a Special Education Teacher in the public schools of Chicago, Boulder and Columbus, and at the Juniper School since 2015. I hold a Master’s Degree in Special Education and am engaged in coursework towards a Waldorf Grades Teacher Certificate at the Great Lakes Waldorf Institute. I am a poet, mother and yogi.
To touch the world of a child’s imagination and heart in such a way that allows them to cultivate their own intelligence is an art and a practice. May countless children and families grow strong and kind through their time spent at the Juniper School!
Marigolds: Grades Two and Three
Nicole Graf
Marigolds Lead Teacher
I am originally from Dayton, OH and attended school at Miami University for Early Childhood Education. I’ve taught preschool through third grade in Western Australia, California and Minnesota and earned a Masters degree in Education from University of Minnesota Duluth. I have also taught the Early Childhood classes at The Juniper School for the past eight years. As a Certified Simplicity Parenting Coach, I’m delighted to offer parent/community classes at The Juniper School. I am committed and eager to formalize my relationship with Waldorf Education as I pursue my path to a formal credential.
Sunflowers: Grades Four and Five
Laurel Gourrier
Sunflowers Lead Teacher
I am a native of Ohio but have called many places home and lean into those experiences as I navigate life. With a Master's in Special Education from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, I began my journey of supporting families first as a special education teacher, then as a family advocate, specifically serving children on the Autism spectrum. The birth of my children shifted my own work in some ways. I started a podcast called Birth Stories in Color and began working as a birth/ postpartum doula, supporting families throughout Central Ohio and in New Orleans. My family was introduced to Waldorf education during our time in New Orleans, and we are thrilled to be a part of the Juniper School Community. After a year working with the aftercare program, lead in the full-day early childhood class, I am now looking forward to sharing my love of academics with the Fourth and Fifth Graders.
Grades Specialists
Zaryana Bezu
Art Specialist
I was born and raised in the old and beautiful city of Kiev, Ukraine. I came to the U.S. in 1998 to study art at Columbus College of Art and design where I got my BFA majoring in illustration. My passion to work with children led me to teach art classes for many years and in 2010 I founded Children’s Art Program (CAP) an after school art classes for children ages 3-15 y.o. The Waldorf educational methods and approach always were my guide and inspiration to introduce art to young children.
Since 2014, I have worked at the Juniper School and I have taken a number of classes at the Waldorf Institute of Southeastern Michigan. Knowing how important these early years of childhood are in the overall development of a child gives me a great honor and delight to be able to be a part of this beautiful magic-filled time.
Working with young children, storytelling and puppetry, also, greatly influenced my work as an artist. You can see my artworks at: www.bezuart.com
Roselyne Foley-Rabasse
French Specialist
I was born in Reims, France and studied liberal arts. I worked as a translator/interpreter when I moved to Columbus in 1995. I have found my calling in teaching French to children for the past 15 years. I have very much enjoyed teaching French in enrichment programs at various elementary schools in metro Columbus as well as private lessons/tutoring.
I am very excited to join Juniper school with its unique form of education combining body, mind, and spirit. I will introduce French through songs, stories and games to develop their cultural awareness.
Hollie Lau
Handwork/Gardening Specialist
Growing up in rural Ohio, I had a childhood filled with nature’s wonders. I spent countless hours by the ponds, catching frogs and dreaming of finding a gnome. My parents instilled in me an early appreciation for nature’s magic and its grounding effects. My love for arts and crafts began young, providing me with both skill and solace. Some of my fondest memories are of sitting on my parents’ porch with a ball of yarn in hand.
I graduated from the University of Findlay with a degree in Early Childhood Education and began my teaching career in my hometown, working with third graders. After moving to Columbus and starting my family, I shifted to work as a lactation counselor and birth doula, a role that deeply fulfilled me for over a decade.
As a mother, I rekindled my love for sewing and gardening, starting quilting when my sons were babies. I now enjoy creating clothes for myself and my daughter, and my hobbies include thrifting, collecting vintage sheets for clothing projects, gardening, rock hunting, and making art. When I have free time, you’ll likely find me at my sewing machine or outside tending to my garden and arranging cut flower bouquets.
I am thrilled to embrace Waldorf methodologies, which resonate deeply with my personal beliefs about child development. I look forward to sharing the magic of nature and fiber arts with your children!
Administration Staff
Jennifer Zegler
Administrator
I came to the Columbus area by way of Irvington, NY and Durham/Greensboro NC. I earned my BS Degree in Middle School Education from UNC-Greensboro. I taught for 4 years in NC before moving to Ohio, where I've lived ever since. Otterbein College is where I earned my Master's Degree in Curriculum & Instruction. In Ohio I taught both in school, online, and homeschooled my own children. I found Juniper when looking for a magical place for my three youngest children. My involvement in Juniper grew as I became more and more amazed by the community and felt the incredible warmth and loving spirit within. Currently, I serve as the Grades Administrator. This school thrives and grows beautifully as a result of the many hearts that beat within it- the families, the students, and the dedicated teachers. I look forward to continuing to learn and work among this special community.
Meghan Western
Admin. Assistant
Raised by artist-educators amongst the scrub pines and sands of Florida, I made my way to the farms and forests of Ohio as a young adult. I live with my family of literature, music, and nature lovers inWhitehall, where we play at homesteading and enjoy the rhythms of life together. My introduction to The Juniper School came in fall of 2018 when our eldest began preschool at "Little Juniper". I have worn several hats at school as my children have skipped and sung their way through the halls, and I am thrilled to be joining the formal staff in the Admin Office. (I also plan to make the occasional appearance as a classroom substitute, recess helper, or leading dances for the May Day Festival!) I hold a BFA in Dance from OSU, am a self-proclaimed 'dance nerd', and when I'm not parenting or at school, can be found choreographing, dancing, and teaching dance all over Columbus.