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Administration
I am excited be the new Executive Director of Latona School Associates. Growing up, I thought I wanted to be in a classroom but when I had the opportunity to try, I found it wasn’t for me- too much structure and not enough fun! I found my passion in creating out-of-school time experiences for kids. Whether after school or in the summer, giving kids an opportunity to be their authentic selves and experiment with their personalities is much needed with today's structured lives. I love working with teachers to give kids the tools they need to navigate their social interactions.
My prior work experiences include working at Kids Club After School, Matt Griffin YMCA in SeaTac, the Associated Recreation Council at the Miller Community Center, and The Museum of Flight. One common thread through all my work experiences was a drive to improve and innovate; making my programs work better for staff and youth alike. When I’m not at work I enjoy playing board games, baking breads & sweets, and spending quality time with my husband and our two dogs at our Burien home.
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 Dallas Artz
I began my time at LSA as a substitute Assistant Teacher when I was 19. After 15ish years, I'm still here, and enjoying everyday. As the program has grown, so have I, completing my BA at the UW in Environmental Studies, and a Masters' of Public Administration at Seattle University. I even met my now wife, Anna, at LSA. We welcomed our first child in February of 2017.
What originated as an interest in environmental education, slowly transitioned into a passion for organizational development and leadership as my studies, personal interests, and responsibilities at LSA changed over time. Whether working with children or adults, the focus of what I do will always be to encourage and advocate for smart, sustainable, responsive growth and development in individuals and organizations alike. When I'm not working, I enjoy writing, photography and film making, mountain biking, and camping. Lastly, I am thankful to the JSIS/LSA community for the tremendous support, faith and trust that it has, and continues, to instill in me. |
Lead Teachers
Kit Fellner, Kindergarten Lead
Jillian Kessell, First Grade Lead
I grew up in San Diego, California and moved to Seattle to attend the University of Washington. In June 2018, I graduated with a BA in Early Childhood and Family Studies. While working towards my degree, I volunteered at Licton Springs K-8 for three years in a kindergarten classroom. I have worked at LSA since March 2017 as an assistant teacher, and I am excited for a new challenge as the first grade lead teacher.
In addition, I began teaching preschool in the mornings in August 2018. My teaching philosophy centers around fostering inclusive and welcoming learning environments for all children and families. This year, my goals are to create a safe classroom community while engaging with the students in various projects—art, science, cooking and active games! Outside of work I enjoy reading, spending time with friends, visiting extended family in Washington, and watching sports events.
I grew up in San Diego, California and moved to Seattle to attend the University of Washington. In June 2018, I graduated with a BA in Early Childhood and Family Studies. While working towards my degree, I volunteered at Licton Springs K-8 for three years in a kindergarten classroom. I have worked at LSA since March 2017 as an assistant teacher, and I am excited for a new challenge as the first grade lead teacher.
In addition, I began teaching preschool in the mornings in August 2018. My teaching philosophy centers around fostering inclusive and welcoming learning environments for all children and families. This year, my goals are to create a safe classroom community while engaging with the students in various projects—art, science, cooking and active games! Outside of work I enjoy reading, spending time with friends, visiting extended family in Washington, and watching sports events.
Tiffany Petosa, Second Grade Lead
iea toner, Third Grade Lead
Lindsay Duckett, Fourth Grade Lead
Micah Berg, Fifth Grade Lead
I was born in Minnesota and then raised in eastern Washington. After graduating from high school in the Seattle ‘burbs I studied astronomy and physics at the University of Washington. I now find myself at LSA in the next adventure of my life. After being recommended this job by a former LSA lead teacher and working for a year as an assistant, I have fallen in love with the program and have returned this year as the 2nd grade teacher! It was a wonderful year of learning and growth, and I am incredibly excited to be back this year and have even more fun. The second grade class is aiming to be laser-like focused on creative thinking, responsibility, and community.
Outside of LSA, I ride the bus home reading as many books as I can and then I play board games and listen to KEXP. Home is in Ballard with my partner, a fresh pot of coffee, and our two cats, Minerva and Simon.
I was born in Minnesota and then raised in eastern Washington. After graduating from high school in the Seattle ‘burbs I studied astronomy and physics at the University of Washington. I now find myself at LSA in the next adventure of my life. After being recommended this job by a former LSA lead teacher and working for a year as an assistant, I have fallen in love with the program and have returned this year as the 2nd grade teacher! It was a wonderful year of learning and growth, and I am incredibly excited to be back this year and have even more fun. The second grade class is aiming to be laser-like focused on creative thinking, responsibility, and community.
Outside of LSA, I ride the bus home reading as many books as I can and then I play board games and listen to KEXP. Home is in Ballard with my partner, a fresh pot of coffee, and our two cats, Minerva and Simon.