Curious Minds Learning Center has educators who are carefully chosen for their passion and commitment to early childhood education. We see ourselves as researchers, facilitators and collaborators, guiding our young explorers to form, refine, and rework their current theories of the world around them.
All educators have obtained a college degree, hold at least 12 ECE units, are First Aid/CPR certified and work in a co-teaching team.
We offer internal professional development several times a year, including an intensive orientation at the beginning of each school year.
Jacki Akins CEO/Director and Oak Teacher:
I am a dedicated professional residing in Petaluma with my family, including my husband, daughter, and our beloved dogs, Charlie & Laguna. I hold a BA in Child and Adolescent Development with a focus on the Young Child and Family, which I earned from San Francisco State University. Additionally, I possess a Director permit issued by the State of California Commission on Teacher Credentialing.
With more than 15 years of experience working with preschool children, I have witnessed the marvel of their daily discoveries. As an educator, I firmly believe in introducing children to a world full of novelty and excitement. By embracing the Reggio Emilia approach, we engage in a journey of mutual learning with our young students, nurturing their interests and thoughts in the process. My passion lies in fostering meaningful relationships, building a sense of community, and encouraging active citizenship.
At the heart of my philosophy is the creation of a developmentally appropriate environment, which serves as the “third teacher.” This environment facilitates the holistic development of each child and empowers them to explore the world around them confidently. My ultimate goal is to collaborate closely with the families at CMLC, guiding them through their preschool journey and supporting the optimal development of their children.
I am devoted to creating a safe and nurturing space where children feel secure and capable of embracing the wonders of their surroundings. Through my commitment to the Reggio Emilia approach, I endeavor to foster a love for learning and a lifelong curiosity within each young mind I have the privilege to teach.
Lisa Berardi Float:
Before I chose the path of educating, I had the opportunity to stay at home with my three children during their formative years. After having been a parent volunteer in my son Ryan’s class, I decided to pursue a career in education. I returned to school and earned a degree in Early Childhood Development. I have worked in a variety of educational settings: Special Education, 2nd-grade, Kindergarten, and Preschool, finally settling in with toddlers at Ross Academy Montessori Preschool. I was an educator there for eight years, prior to coming to Curious Minds Learning Center. I have always felt children are a wonder and joy. They have always brought happiness into my life. Their curiosity and awe are what keeps my desire to educate alive and flourishing. Every day with children brings a new adventure and excitement. As an educator, I appreciate their wonder and enthusiasm. My desire is to create an environment that children find exciting, one that keeps their minds engaged and involved in the world around them. Outside the classroom, I’m passionate about cooking and traveling, and I’m looking forward to welcoming my first grandchild in October.
Jessica Robello Willow Teacher and AC Teacher:
Curious Minds has been my second home since December 2020. While I arrived amidst the middle of the school year and the chaos of the pandemic, I immediately felt the welcoming warmth of the CMLC community. My interest in working with children began early on through assisting in art classes, working as a camp counselor, and tutoring in writing and reading throughout high school. While furthering my education in Denver, Colorado, I worked with young mothers, supporting them through the challenges of limited resources and completing their education while navigating their adolescence. Upon returning to the Bay Area, I continued tutoring and working with school-aged children through the San Rafael City Schools’ aftercare system. At Dixie in Lucas Valley, I loved the Kindergarten-age program. Upon a move to Petaluma, at a Reggio-inspired, art and nature-based school, I met Jacki teaching their oldest daughter, Evie. So, when Jacki asked me to join the Curious Minds team, it was a no-brainer. Nowadays, my dog, Mowgli, and I live in Nicasio exploring the trails and seashores along the Marin and Sonoma coastline.
Nicolby Griffin Oak Teacher and AC Teacher:
Greetings! I have been teaching early childhood education for five years. It brings me great joy to share my ideas with the Willow class at Curious Minds Learning Center. My journey began as an after-school aide in San Rafael, but I was encouraged to pursue further education in child development at the College of Marin. Soon after, I gained hands-on experience working at a preschool. I decided to start a family and now have a two-year-old daughter. Working in childhood education has aided me as a first-time mother. I have a special connection with children and their ability to absorb information, which motivates me to keep teaching. Together, we learn in a safe and comfortable environment where children can explore their surroundings freely. I am excited to work with you all!
Kara Ruehle Willow Teacher and AC Teacher:
Throughout my life, I’ve felt a deep connection to learning and growing within the school environment. Admiring my teachers was the start of my passion for teaching. My first experience in education was leading art and craft classes for children at a local art store. After graduating from Cal State Long Beach with a degree in Studio Art, I began teaching art classes at various preschools and led an afterschool TK program. I quickly realized how naturally I connected with children. My background in art has allowed me to introduce my students not only to painting and various mediums but also to art theory and history. I believe that my deep love for the arts helps my students connect with me and inspires them to explore their creativity more deeply. My goal as a teacher is to create an environment where each individual personality is nurtured in a unique way, allowing students to feel safe and secure in their bodies. This, in turn, gives them the space to be enthusiastic about learning.
During my initial conversation with Jacki, I immediately felt a connection between my classroom aspirations and the values of Curious Minds. I am incredibly excited about the upcoming school year.
Danielle Whelan Willow Teacher and AC Teacher:
Hi there, my name is Danielle Whelan. I was born and raised in Mill Valley and currently reside in Petaluma with my fur babies: Koa (dog), Gepetto (cat), and four birds. I have had the honor of working in Early Childhood Education for 16 years. My journey into education began in my early twenties with the Marin County Office of Education, where I worked as a one-to-one Paraprofessional in a Special Day Class at Strawberry Point Elementary School. I spent two years there with some incredible kids who inspired me to pursue my 12 ECE units at Santa Rosa JC. Afterward, I found a lovely play-based preschool in Tiburon, where I discovered my passion for teaching. I then chose to nanny for two amazing boys to have more time to care for my ailing mom. After three years of caring for these children, I returned to teaching at another wonderful play-based school in Tiburon and stayed there for 11 years until the pandemic forced an involuntary job change. This change brought me back to my roots with MCOE, working in their Preschool program at Marindale. It has been a fantastic experience, filled with learning new techniques and a continued love for working with students who need a little extra help.
I am excited to meet all the children at CMLC and share my knowledge and love with them!