ANGIE NAKO
My name is Angela (Angie) Nako and I am very excited to become a part of the Lakeside Co Op Preschool community. I received my bachelor’s degree in early childhood education from Western Washington University and have worked in the Bellingham Public schools and at various local childcare centers for several years. I am originally from Hawaii and have lived in Bellingham with my husband and Cat, my fur baby, for about 10 years. I enjoy the outdoors and love spending time outside, especially camping and paddle boarding. When I can’t go outside, I enjoy reading, crafts, and board game nights with friends.
Seeing the wonder that all children have for the world is what inspires me to do what I do and influences how I teach. I believe children learn best during play and hands-on experiences. When teaching I try to create an environment that promotes creativity and fun where learning happens naturally. I also believe that children can learn so much from nature and real-life experiences. I have always enjoyed creating lessons that could involve the outdoors and novel experiences like gardening and cooking. At Lakeside, I hope to promote classroom community and create a space for children to develop skills that support them socially and academically for success now and in the future.
JEN DEVANGE
Children are capable, inventive, and full of ideas! They love to learn, and I strive to create experiences that spark curiosity, initiative, and creativity. The most exciting learning often happens when the school community is learning about something together—children, teachers, and families—through playful, hands-on exploration and inquiry. We also know that time outdoors and in nature is important for children, and I seek out opportunities for children to play regularly in their local wild places where they can develop a sense of place and belonging. Together with families, we create a place where children feel safe and happy so they can learn to make friends, express themselves in different ways, explore new ideas and materials, solve problems, make mistakes, ask questions, and make discoveries. As part of a caring and supportive learning community, they will build the skills and confidence they need to thrive.
I received a B.A. and teaching certificate in Early Childhood Education from Western Washington University, interning in both preschool and kindergarten. My career includes teaching high school, running a successful family home childcare, volunteer work, and teaching for six years at a local arts-integrated, inquiry-based preschool and childcare program before joining the Lakeside Cooperative Preschool.
When I’m not at school, you’ll likely find me out discovering new places, exploring nature, gardening, enjoying live concerts, singing, enjoying trivia nights, eating good food, and spending time with family and friends, including my husband and two grown children.