Meet the teachers
Ms. April
Hello! I am the owner/founder of The Little Barnyard Preschool and the lead teacher in all of the classes. Teaching children outside in nature and on my farm is a dream job. I have been working with children for 15 years now and I love it more every year.
I have a degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities. I opened Little Barnyard in 2014, a few years after moving back to Esko. My teaching philosophy is child-led and emergent based on the interests, needs, and motivations of the children and seasons of our year. I’m deeply inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach and Constructivist learning models, and I add in Waldorf and Montessori aspects as well. My favorite part of teaching is engaging children in activities that build a love for learning, life skills and a confidence within themselves.
Children bring such joy and fulfillment into my life, and I’m so honored to have your child in my school.
Ms. Desi
Teacher
Hello, I’m Ms. Desi! I am married to my husband, Cody, and we just celebrated our 10 year wedding anniversary this year. We have three kids and a cat named Nala.
I love working with children and being in nature. I earned my AAS in Early Childhood Education and my Bachelors in Environment and Outdoor Education. I am passionate about getting young children outside and learning about this magnificent world we live in.
Our family loves spending as much time outside as possible! Some of our favorite things to do together are camping, fishing, kayaking, swimming, hiking, looking for stars and the moon at night, and just relaxing outside. Our goal in life is to learn to live as self-sufficiently and low waste as possible. I am so excited to be teaching another school year here at The Little Barnyard Preschool!
Ms. Megan
Teacher
Hello! Miss Megan here!
I am a former K-8 music teacher. I taught in Duluth for 5 years until my son was born, who currently attends Little Barnyard. I took a short break to focus on raising a family and my small business. I’m excited to be back teaching!
I have a music education degree from UMD. School brought me to Duluth and I fell in love with the area. I’ve been exploring Duluth for the last 13 years now!
In our free time we love to explore and adventure as a family. That includes hiking, stand-up paddle boarding, camping, rock climbing and generally experiencing new places. I also love cooking; it’s my way to let creativity flow. I’m looking forward to preparing some yummy snacks with the Barnyard crew!
I’m so excited to guide your kiddos in their learning and play journeys!