SONIA KALVERT
I am very excited to be joining the Lakeside Co-op Preschool Community. I received my Early Childhood Education credential from Los Angeles Valley College and taught in preschools there for several years. I believe in the power of play-based learning and incorporating hands–on activities, engaging games, and creative projects into my lessons to make learning meaningful and fun. I strive to instill a love for learning, nurture curiosity, and help each child develop the skills and confidence they need to thrive academically and socially.
Since moving to Bellingham to be closer to family, this community has become my home. I am a single mom of two adult daughters. I enjoy being close to nature, walking local trails, attending trivia nights, reading, movies and spending time with friends.
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.