Art and Science Kids Outdoor Preschool Teachers
Joseph Flaherty
Founder and Teacher
Local children call me “Mr Flaherty”, “Teacher Jofus”, or just plain “Joe”. I moved to O’Brien in 2005 after completing my masters degree in Early Childhood Development from Southern Oregon University in Ashland. I am a certified teacher licensed by the state of Oregon. I have over a decade of experience working with young children in the Illinois Valley. I taught first grade at Evergreen Elementary School for eleven years, and I also worked at the local Head Start. I taught an after school math and science class to fourth and fifth graders, and I taught English Language Development to Spanish speaking students at the middle school and high school level. In my final years at the public schools, I sat on committees and led professional workshops on the subjects of student behavior, school improvement, and science instruction. I tutor children of all ages in subjects especially algebra, geometry, and primary grade literacy. I enjoy long hikes in the mountains, playing music with my friends, and petting my cat Roo. My favorite wilderness area is Kalmiopsis.
Ariana Jurisic
Art Teacher
I always loved two things in life--working with children and art. I feel so lucky that both of my dreams have come true. It has been a fun and joyful adventure teaching art at ASK. I enjoyed every class and getting to meet all of your little artists in the making. I sure had to earn my place, their respect, and love. Boy, did they make me work hard! I cherish our moments spent creating fun art projects and learning together. Students’ energy and enthusiasm are contagious! We make memories that are meant to be remembered!
Leela Whittlinger
Teacher
After graduating high school in California, I've spent much of my time expanding my knowledge in many of my favorite subjects such as history, science, and childhood development and education.