Our Team

Elizabeth Bird, Family Biz Kids Founder and Executive Director

Elizabeth graduated from Pacific Oaks College with a Master of Arts in Human Development with concentrations in Early Childhood Development and Education, Parenting, and Leadership in Education. She is the Founder and Executive Director of Family Biz Kids. Elizabeth has worked with families in varying capacities: family business advisor, presenter, administrator of early learning programs, trainer, author, and parent educator. She is a nationally recognized speaker and expert on family business generative programs. In addition to consulting, designing, and directing Family Biz Kids programs, she was on the faculty and taught Parent Education and Child Development classes at North Seattle College for many years.

Elizabeth previously served on several Seattle College District nonprofit school boards and the United Way's "Success by Six" community board, which addressed early learning readiness and outreach policies. She was a founding member and instrumental in developing the Washington State Early Childhood Staff Professional Development Standards and State Training and Registry System (STARS).

Elizabeth's upbringing in a fourth-generation farming family in rural Eastern Washington state has profoundly shaped her perspective. She possesses firsthand knowledge of the complexities and challenges of succession in family enterprises. The inherent values of stewardship and long-term vision within multi-generational family businesses deeply resonate with her core beliefs and inform her work with families.

Elizabeth and her husband live in the Seattle area and enjoy traveling, wine collecting, and spending time with friends and family.

Greg Brazell, Curriculum Development Director

Greg Brazell's academic credentials include a Master of Curriculum Design from Lesley University and a dual Bachelor of Arts Degree in Early Childhood Education and Elementary Education from Central Washington University. Greg's professional journey is marked by significant leadership roles at Pierce College in Lakewood, WA, where he demonstrated his multifaceted abilities. He served as the Director of Education Programs, the Dean of Business and Social Science, and the Director of Employee Learning and Development. These diverse experiences honed his strategic planning, program management, and faculty development skills.

Greg's commitment to excellence has been consistently recognized throughout his career. He has been honored as the Pierce County Early Childhood Teacher of the Year, a testament to his impactful teaching practices. He was also named the National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development Faculty Member of the Year, acknowledging his contributions to professional development. Additionally, he received the Pierce County Vocational Education Teacher of the Year award and a Pierce College Distinguished Alumnus, recognizing his significant impact on the institution and its community.

As a lifelong learner, Greg is driven by a passion for promoting quality educational experiences for individuals of all ages. He believes in the transformative power of education and strives to create environments that foster intellectual curiosity and personal growth. For the past 28 years, Greg has been an integral part of the Family Biz Kids team. This role allows him to directly apply his expertise in curriculum development and pursue his passion for learning, relationship building, and strengthening family connections. He is deeply committed to creating enriching experiences that empower children and families.

Outside of his professional endeavors, Greg is an avid outdoor enthusiast. He finds solace and inspiration in nature and can often be found hiking, biking, and kayaking.

Shannon Boyington, Program Manager and Educator

Shannon earned a Bachelor of Science in Human Development from Wheelock College, focusing on Early Childhood Education. Over her career, Shannon has amassed a diverse range of practical experience. She has served as a Program Manager, Assistant Director, and Lead Toddler Teacher, demonstrating her ability to lead and nurture young children in various educational settings. Her experience extends to summer camps, where she served as a Camp Counselor for children ranging from infants to six years old, showcasing her versatility and adaptability in engaging different age groups. Furthermore, her experience as a nanny has provided her with a deep understanding of the individual needs of children and families.

Beyond her direct work with children, Shannon has substantial management and administration expertise. This dual skill set led her to establish her own consulting business, Family Biz Kids, where she skillfully blends her passion for child development with her administrative acumen. At Family Biz Kids, Shannon excels in program planning and coordination, creating engaging and developmentally appropriate activities, and fostering strong relationships with families.

Shannon's commitment and longevity at Family Biz Kids are remarkable, as she recently celebrated her 29th year, holding the record for the longest tenure. Her dedication is a testament to her passion and effectiveness in her role.

Outside of her professional life, Shannon enjoys a variety of personal interests. She is an avid sports enthusiast, finds relaxation and inspiration in reading, and expresses her creativity through craft projects. 

Jessica Geiger, Program Director and Educator

Jessica holds a Master of Science in Adult Organizational Learning and Leadership from the University of Idaho and a Bachelor of Science in Childhood Development. She is the Health Services Manager for North Idaho College Head Start, focusing on education and social work. In her spare time, Jessica volunteers as a safe sleep educator, child passenger safety technician, and Medical Corp Reservist with her local health district.

In her twelve years of tenure with Family Biz Kids, Jessica has directed programs, served on the executive management team, worked with infants and toddlers, and provided parent education for the parents of children in her classes. In her personal time, she enjoys the outdoors and live music.

Shelly Castro, Program Director and Educator

Shelly holds a Master of Educational Technology from Lesley University, Cambridge, MA. She is also a graduate of Central Washington University, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education and Elementary Education. Shelly is a certified teacher in Washington State and currently teaches fourth grade for the Tacoma Public Schools. Before her current position as a classroom teacher, Shelly was the director of a preschool program that she developed for a large accredited private school in Tacoma, Washington.  

Shelly has worked with all age groups and in administrative capacities during her fourteen years with Family Biz Kids. She also serves on the executive management team of Family Biz Kids. She is well-informed about the developmental stages of children from infancy to young adulthood. Shelly brings her commitment to establishing strong relational development and academic acumen to her work with Family Biz Kids.

Cassidy Gatz, Educator and Administrative Assistant

Cassidy earned an Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Education from Pierce College in Lakewood, Washington. She was previously the Lead Preschool Teacher at Milgard Child Development Center in Tacoma, WA. Cassidy is a frequent professional development presenter and has led workshops at various Early Childhood conferences around Washington state. This is Cassidy's seventh year with Family Biz Kids. Cassidy has varied responsibilities within the Family Biz Kids organization. She is a Lead Educator, Administrative Assistant, and executive management team member.

When Cassidy is not working with young children, she loves to spend time at home, go on road trips, crochet, and spend quality time with her husband, friends, and family.

Maryalice DeAngelis, Educator

Maryalice maintains multiple certificates, including a Master of Science in Environmental Studies from Antioch University New England and a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Science Education from SUNY Oneonta. Maryalice currently teaches upper elementary students in Colorado. She specializes in bringing experiential education and powerful, relevant, and student-driven learning experiences to her 10- to 12-year-old students.

Maryalice is lifeguard and scuba certified. Throughout her summers at various summer camp settings, she has served as a head counselor, program director, athletic director, medical director, environmental educator, and garden coordinator. Maryalice is an animal lover and enjoys quality time with the horses, cats, and dogs on the family farm. She and her dachshund are becoming avid hikers as well. Maryalice's other hobbies include biking, baking, traveling, and yoga. This is her eighth year working with Family Biz Kids.

Rachel Hoey, Educator

Rachel holds a Master of Arts in Theatre from San Diego State University, where she has taught Creative Drama and Theatre for Young Audiences as a lecturer. Rachel earned her Master of Fine Arts in Directing from Indiana University and was an adjunct professor of acting and directing. Rachel is currently a visiting assistant professor of acting and directing at Allegheny College. She has trained at Second City West Hollywood, Steppenwolf West, and the British American Drama Academy.

Rachel has several years of experience as a K-12 performing teacher, directing musicals/plays and developing arts-integrated STEAM lessons for companies like La Jolla Playhouse, Playwrights Project, and Arts for Lawrence. She loves to bring those creative activities to the surface and teach kids to create strong community bonds through experiential activities! For the past 10 years, Rachel has used her theater background and experience with children in varying roles within Family Biz Kids programs. 

Cody Angeles, Educator and Lifeguard

Cody holds a Master of Arts in teaching from Point Loma Nazarene University and a Bachelor of Arts in Medical Anthropology from California State University San Marcos. He is a credentialed special education teacher for students with mild to moderate disabilities in the middle and high school settings. He has experience working with and supporting students with Autism, learning disabilities, attention disorders, and other health impairments.

Born in San Diego, Cody loves the beach, surfing, and freediving. During the summer, Cody works as an EMT beach lifeguard while pursuing his love for ocean safety and drowning prevention. He has a passion for outdoor education with previous experience, including a marine naturalist aboard catamaran sailing excursions in Maui, surf camp director, and after-school recreation programs.

Cody's educational philosophy is creating a safe and welcoming learning environment for all students, emphasizing equity and inclusion, and developing mindfulness and critical thinking. This is Cody's third year with Family Biz Kids.

Katie Brown, Educator

Holding a Master of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction with a focus on Early Childhood Education from Arizona State University, Katie Brown is dedicated to supporting the development of young children. She currently works as an Early Childhood Professional in Northern Idaho, focusing on serving families within her community.

Her passion for education began in her youth through 4-H, which inspired her to pursue a career in early childhood. She has experience working in various early learning environments, always emphasizing age-appropriate practices and the importance of strong relational development between children and their caregivers. Katie is a strong advocate for early learning and community involvement. She volunteers her time with organizations like Safe Start and the Northwest Infant Survival and SIDS Alliance, where she previously served as President of the Board of Directors. Her commitment to child safety is further demonstrated by her work as a Safe Sleep Educator and Child Passenger Safety Technician Instructor.

For the past nine years, Katie has been involved with Family Biz Kids, contributing her expertise to programs that focus on age-appropriate relational development.

Shanna Crookes, Educator

Shanna holds a Master of Education in School Counseling from Central Washington University and a Bachelor of Science in Child and Family Studies from Portland State University. She is employed as a Graduation Support Specialist at a high school in Washington State, where she supports student success. Shanna's professional background includes significant experience working with adolescents in both social service and educational settings. She is a Washington State Certified School Counselor.

Shanna has extended her work with youth into summer camp environments, working at various camps throughout the United States. This is Shanna's twelfth year contributing to Family Biz Kids.

Outside of her professional life, Shanna is an active outdoor enthusiast. She enjoys traveling and has completed notable treks such as the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage and the Camino de Santiago.

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Austin Ohm, Art Specialist

Austin holds a Master of Arts in Creativity Studies from Union Institute and University, focusing on the connection between creativity and well-being. He also earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the Peck School of the Arts at UW-Milwaukee and a PK-12 Art Education Certificate from UW-Madison. Notably, he is a Washington State-certified teacher with over 10 years of experience and has been recognized with two prestigious awards: Washington State Art Teacher of the Year and Washington State Elementary School Art Teacher of the Year.  

Creative, confident, and skilled in working with diverse age groups and ability levels, Austin is deeply passionate about the healing power of art for individuals, communities, and the environment. He actively contributes to the art community, maintaining his own professional art career in painting and sculpture, with a consistent exhibition record of over 14 years.

Outside of teaching and art creation, Austin enjoys outdoor activities, gardening, cooking, and sharing meals with friends and family. He resides in Seattle with his wife Emily, their dog Frida, and their cat Sevilla. This marks Austin's eighth year with Family Biz Kids.

Ashley Crosby, Educator

Ashley holds a Master of Arts in Elementary Education and a Bachelor of Science in Child Development and Family Relations from the University of Idaho. She has over 15 years of experience as an early childhood educator and is newly venturing into the field of elementary education. She is the Senior Administrative Assistant at the North Idaho College Children's Center and is passionate about advocating for quality early childhood learning environments and developmentally appropriate practices. She has served on her local National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) board and Safe Start, advocating for early childhood safety and best practices while serving as a certified car seat safety technician. She enjoys engaging in fun, educational activities and experiences with young children.

Ashley volunteers regularly and enjoys engaging in fun and interactive activities and experiences with young children in her community. During her free time, Ashley enjoys spending time outdoors with her husband and two children. This is Ashley's 10th year with Family Biz Kids.

Megan Lohrs, Educator

Megan Lohrs graduated from the University of Vermont with degrees in Elementary Education and Special Education and a concentration in mathematics. She also earned a Master of Professional Studies in Literacy Specialty from Manhattanville College. Megan has attended over 120 hours of training at Columbia University's Teachers College and has certifications in both literacy specialty and childhood education. In all that she does, Megan strives to foster literacy development, a sense of community, and a lifelong love of literature. She currently teaches second grade in Clearwater, FL. Megan is an instructor for PDclassesonline, where she shares her expertise in various areas, including literacy and differentiated instruction.

Originally from New York, Megan found her way to the Sunshine State when she moved to St. Petersburg, FL. In her free time, Megan enjoys kayaking, singing, attending Broadway shows, reading, and playing board games. She always pushes herself to grow and learn from others through new experiences. Megan became a new aunt last summer. She loves watching her niece, Charlie, explore the world around her. This is Megan's second year with Family Biz Kids.

James Cecil, Lifeguard and Outdoor Educator  

James Cecil, a lifeguard and outdoor educator at Family Biz Kids for the past three years, brings a vibrant passion for nature and extensive experience in outdoor education to his role. A third-year undergraduate at the University of Oregon pursuing a bachelor's degree in chemistry and physics, he plans to begin his master's program next year. His dedication to safety is paramount, as demonstrated by his Red Cross Lifeguard certification (since 2021) and his 100% safety record over four years working with children and aquatics, including experience as an assistant lifeguard with the YMCA.

A Seattle native, James's deep connection to the outdoors began in childhood, backpacking through iconic landscapes like Mt. Rainier, Olympic National Forest, and Zion. These experiences and his ongoing explorations in Oregon's wilderness inform his approach to outdoor education at Family Biz Kids. Since 2022, he's passionately shared his love of nature with children, inspiring them to discover their own connection to the environment. He seamlessly blends his aquatics expertise with his enthusiasm for outdoor learning.

Sarah Johnson, Educator

Sarah is a graduate of Mercer University in Atlanta, Georgia, with a Master of Arts in elementary education. Sarah also holds a Bachelor of Arts in early childhood education from Ashford University. Sarah has worked with children from birth to 6 years old. She has been a kindergarten teacher for the past three years. Previously, she spent most of her time working for Bright Horizons Learning Centers, which are dedicated to high-quality education and care.

Sarah is the mother of two boys who are actively involved in soccer and basketball. In her free time, she spends time with family and friends. Sarah loves the outdoors and spends most of her time reading, yoga, or going to the beach. This is Sarah's second year with Family Biz Kids.

Nicole Cantalupo, Educator

Nicole holds a Master of Arts in Theatre Arts from San Diego State University. She is a certified teacher, teaches high school Humanities, and is the department chair. as well as teaching credentials in English, Social Science, and College & Career Technical Education: Arts, Media, and Entertainment.

Nicole currently teaches theatre and technical theatre for grades 9-12. As a native of San Diego, Nicole has become very involved in the local theatre community. She has fourteen years of experience as a teaching artist and curriculum developer, working with Diversionary Theatre, La Jolla Playhouse, MOXIE Theatre, and Center Stage Children's Theatre, as well as various schools throughout San Diego County. Nicole specializes in devising new work with high school students, focusing on verbatim theatre and performance for social change.  

Nicole loves to travel, play board games, and work on creative projects in her free time. This is Nicole's 11th year working with Family Biz Kids.

Grace Crowley, Educator and Special Projects 

Grace graduated with a Master of Arts in Education and Curriculum Design and Instruction from the University of Washington and holds a Bachelor of Science in Outdoor Leadership from Warren Wilson College in Asheville, NC. She is currently working toward a Ph.D. in Learning Sciences and Human Development from the University of Washington, teaches at Edmonds College, and supports adults with disabilities in achieving their goals and dreams.

Grace's pedagogy centers around experiential education and using outdoor and service learning activities as opportunities to expand, reflect, and grow. She has taught service learning courses through the University of Washington's Center for Experiential Learning and Diversity and the Community Education and Leadership Empowerment Center, where she supported undergraduate volunteers as they tutored across Title I schools. She regularly utilizes volunteer projects in the community as an opportunity for her students to engage in self-advocacy and workplace readiness skills.

As a dedicated outdoor educator, Grace has obtained certifications such as Wilderness First Responder, Lifeguard, Wilderness Water Safety, and Leave No Trace. Grace is certified in conflict resolution, group process, and Youth mental Health First Aid. She completed an Outward Bound Instructor Course focusing on teaching backpacking, whitewater canoeing, and rock climbing.

Grace joined Family Biz Kids in 2014. In her free time, she can be found in her garden, at a community event, or caring for her three-year-old. 

Lizz Zitron, Educator

Lizz holds a Master of Library Science (MLIS) from the University of Illinois and a Master of Arts in Journalism from the University of Missouri. She loves working with youth. Much of her career has focused on this passion and purpose  Lizz was a librarian for ten years, focused on instruction, children's and young adult literature, and creative programming for ages 0-18  She has lived all over the US and held various jobs ranging from zoo educator to ropes course facilitator to cookbook publicist to dancer to others (just ask!) Lizz decided exploration would be her life's path when she was six years old, inspired by the greater world she saw in books. S.  is now happily settled as a professor in the higher education world, focused on helping students transition to college and explore their passions and purpose.

 Lizz is a single mom to a young child who keeps her on her toes  In her free time, Lizz loves laughing with her son, backpacking, hiking, taking her Stand Up Paddle Board (SUP) out on the water, reading, and traveling  Lizz challenges herself to grow and learn from all she does  She loves helping youth find their passions and purpose through play, discovery, and community-building  This is Lizz's fourth year with Family Biz Kids.

Kathleen Miller Green, Educator

Kathleen finished her Master of Arts in Interpersonal Communication/Public Speaking from the University of Montana, and then invested the next thirty-six years working for and teaching early childhood providers, students, community agencies, young children, and their families as a professor, mentor, and advocate. Kathleen is co-author of the inclusion curriculum, Child Care plus+ Curriculum on Inclusion, which is used for training early childhood providers in inclusive practice across the country. She has been active for 21 years with Idaho's Early Childhood Professional Development System (IdahoSTARS) as a trainer, evaluator, and advisor. Previously, she taught Child Development at the University of Montana and now teaches at North Idaho College.

Kathleen is a "newbie" to Family Biz Kids (she is in her second year) but certainly not new to the passionate care and education of our youngest charges. She is number 4 of nine Montana farm kids, has over 50 nieces and nephews, has a son and daughter, and a beautiful 3-year-old grandson. Kathleen strives every day to fulfill this quote from JFK - "Children are the living messages we send to a time we will not see."

Megan Adams, Educator

Megan holds a Master of Arts degree in English Language Learning from Western Governors University and a Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies (k-8) Education, also from Western Governors University. She is currently a 5th-grade teacher. Megan has worked with children of all ages. She is passionate about helping every child learn and grow, and find what learning style works best for them. Megan strongly believes every child is unique and can learn to be whatever they put their minds to. She also believes play is vital to any child's development and learning.

In her free time, Megan enjoys hiking, camping, and being outdoors with her husband and two kids. She also really enjoys movies, reading, and quality family time. This is Megan's second year with Family Biz Kids.

Daejah Parks, Educator

Daejah is a Howard University graduate with a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education. She has experience teaching first grade and has worked in Montessori-based education, tutoring K-5 students, and supporting early childcare. Daejah is pursuing a Master of Social Work degree at Louisiana State University.

Daejah is passionate about fostering young learners' academic, social, and emotional growth. She is committed to creating engaging, student-centered environments that promote critical thinking. Her work in education has been recognized in Kidsburgh and Remake Learning, where she was featured for her contributions to innovative programs supporting future teachers of color. This is her second year with Family Biz Kids.

In her free time, Daejah enjoys taking long walks with her dog, spending time outdoors, and working out.

Briana Bremer, Educator 

Briana earned a Bachelor of Science in Child Development and Family Relations from the University of Idaho. She has over 22 years of experience with several age groups and finds joy in working with children from infancy through preschool. Briana has been a team coordinator, lead teacher at Head Start, and a classroom teacher at the local high school childcare, where she supported teen moms as they finished school. Presently, Briana is a lead teacher at North Idaho College Children's Center. She has also volunteered for the Inland Northwest SIDS Foundation. Briana believes early childhood education sets the groundwork for children's growth and development. She embraces the crucial role of play, the lens through which children are constantly learning, asking questions, experimenting, and being hands-on in their environment.

During her free time, Briana enjoys being with her children and enjoying the outdoors by

 the water. She also loves golfing and watching football and college basketball. This is Briana's seventh year with Family Biz Kids.

Cara Turningrobe, Educator

Cara possesses a Master of Business in Management and Leadership and a Bachelor of Science in Child Development and Family Relations from the University of Idaho. Her professional background includes seven years as a civilian employee supporting the U.S. military at Fairchild Air Force Base. During this time, she held positions including Assistant Director of the Child Development Center, where she contributed to the oversight of care for over 180 children, and Family Child Care Coordinator, responsible for licensing and educating in-home preschool providers.

Cara also has direct experience as a lead teacher for children from infancy to age two. Demonstrating a strong commitment to child and family well-being, she currently serves as Board President for Saft Start, a national nonprofit organization providing resources and support in safe sleep practices, car seat safety, and grief counseling.

Living on a small family farm where she enjoys caring for animals and tending plum trees with her children, Cara is dedicated to fostering an appreciation for nature, responsibility, and curiosity. With a focus on exploration and discovery, Cara aims to cultivate a sense of wonder and lifelong learning. This is Cara's first year with Family Biz Kids.

David Johnson, Educator

David holds a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education with a minor in language arts from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Clarie. He has worked with children of all ages in various programs since he was 16. Working for Bloomington Public Schools' Summer Program in his native Minnesota, David sparked a passion for developing youth's social and problem-solving skills working with students ages 4-13. Currently, David teaches 5th grade in Colorado, focusing on teaching Language Arts and Leadership through real-world applications.

Dave is an athlete at heart and fond of all things involving sport. Growing up in Minnesota, David was exposed to ice hockey at a young age and continued to play throughout his collegiate years. Since moving West, David has picked up golf, skiing, and fly fishing. This is his second year with Family Biz Kids. 

Emelia Gatz, Educator

Emelia holds a Bachelor of Arts Science in Physical Education and Health Education from the University of Minnesota Duluth, with minors in Adaptive Physical Education and American Sign Language.

Professionally, Emelia is dedicated to teaching Adaptive Physical Education in Minneapolis, MN, where she creates engaging and inclusive learning experiences for her students. Her commitment extends to her volunteer work with Special Olympics sports teams, where she supports young athletes in achieving their goals. Emelia's background includes extensive experience working with children in various recreational and classroom environments, allowing her to develop strong leadership skills and a knack for fostering welcoming atmospheres.

In her leisure time, Emelia enjoys hiking along the beautiful North Shore, spending quality time with her family and their golden retrievers, exploring new destinations through road trips, and staying active through running and weightlifting. Emelia is in her third year with Family Biz Kids, bringing her passion and experience to the team.

Sarah Twardy, Educator

Sarah Twardy is a graduate of the University at Albany in NY, where she was a Division I track and field athlete and holds a Master of Arts in United States History and a Bachelor of Arts in Social Studies Education. She has been a United States History, Government, and Economics high school teacher for 13 years and recently moved to Florida. She has also been teaching Advanced Placement classes at her local high school. In 2006, Sarah was among 26 educators from around the country chosen to participate in a three-week Holocaust Studies trip led by the Museum of Jewish Heritage in NYC and Holocaust survivors who traveled to Poland, the Czech Republic, and Austria to study at Holocaust sites and learn from world-renowned scholars.

Sarah enjoys traveling, running, and coaching track and field, and her sons’ baseball teams in her time. Born and raised in rural Vermont, she loves the outdoors – hiking, exploring, paddleboarding, and playing. This will be Sarah’s ninth year working with Family Biz Kids.

Elizabeth Cruz, Educator

Elizabeth holds a Master of Arts Degree in Early Childhood Services from Arkansas State University and a Bachelor of Arts in Child Development from California State University, Fullerton. She has over seven years of experience working with children of various ages ranging from infancy to preschool and high school. She is currently a Child Development CTE Instructor, where she teaches high school students human development theories and current early childhood teaching techniques and strategies while preparing them for employment in early childhood centers. She also volunteers at her alma mater, CSUF, where she mentors first-generation college students in college and career preparation.

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Elizabeth lives in Southern California with her husband and nine pets. Her most unique pets are a mini pig and a 65-pound tortoise. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, spending time with loved ones, and hiking. This is Elizabeth's third year with Family Biz Kids.

Steve Swortz, Educator

Steve Swortz has a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education and K-8 Elementary School Education from Central Washington University. He also has a Special Education Endorsement from Pacific Lutheran University. He has been working with children for 12 years. Currently, Steve is a certified teacher in Washington State and works in the Clover Park School District. He has taught Kindergarten, Middle School Language Arts and Social Studies, and Special Education, worked as a reading and writing interventionist, and is currently a high school special education teacher at Clover Park High School in Lakewood, Washington. Steve is a soccer and tennis coach at the middle school level and a certified Professional Ski Instructor at Crystal Mountain in Washington State.

Steve has been married to his wife Brandi for 24 years and has two children, Riley and Reagan. In his spare time, he likes to spend time outdoors gardening and camping. This is Steve's sixth year with Family Biz Kids.

Tanya Honey, Educator

Tanya holds a Master of Arts in Special Education from Grand Canyon University and a Bachelor of Arts in Educational Studies from Western Governors University. She began her career in education as a paraeducator, where she discovered her passion for supporting students with diverse learning needs. This experience inspired her to pursue a teaching certificate and a dedication to creating inclusive and supportive learning environments. Alongside her professional achievements, she spent five years volunteering for the Special Olympics of Washington and is passionate about community service and inclusion.

Tanya enjoys making memories with friends, her husband, and children, as well as traveling and snorkeling in warm water destinations. Recently, she has also taken up golf and snowshoeing. This is Tanya's second year with Family Biz Kids.

Molly Carlson, Educator

Molly holds a Master’s Degree in Public Health from Portland State University and a BA in psychology from the University of Washington. She has held many positions related to children and teaching, from teaching assistant to running after-school programs to tutoring in elementary schools. Additionally, she owns her own business as a personal chef, where she cooks healthy, family-friendly meals for her clients.  

Molly lives in Portland with her husband, two teen children, and a dog. In her spare time, you will find her cooking for anyone and everyone, playing, watching, and coaching soccer, camping in their trailer, Clementine (her family spent three months traveling the Western United States in it), and spending as much time outdoors as possible. This is Molly’s ninth year with Family Biz Kids.

Kathy Schott, Educator

Kathy is a certified teacher and a graduate of the University of Washington, where she earned degrees in speech pathology and elementary education. Until recently, Kathy served on the administrative team of an independent school on Bainbridge Island, where she taught their nationally acclaimed kindergarten. Developing curriculum, supervising staff, community outreach, and serving on accreditation teams for the Northwest Association of Independent Schools contributed to her professional growth. Kathy is well-informed on the developmental stages of children from infancy to young adulthood. She brings her commitment to establishing strong relational development to her work with Family Biz Kids. 

For over 25 years, Kathy has worked with Family Biz Kids and the multi-generational Family Businesses they serve. During her tenure, she has worked with teens, 3 to 5-year-olds, infants, and administrative capacities. Kathy’s established leadership builds relationships of cooperation and trust between staff, parents, and the children as they learn, work, and play together.

Ashley Estrella, Educator

Ashley graduated from San Jose State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Child and Adolescent Development. She continued at San Jose State and earned her Multiple-Subject Teaching Credential. Over the last nine years, she has taught both kindergarten and preschool.

She is passionate about early childhood education and play-based learning. She believes "play is the work of childhood" and enjoys finding ways to encourage exploration and allow learning to thrive from children's curiosities.

Outside of teaching, Ashley enjoys the outdoors, baking, and spending time with her husband and three daughters. This is Ashley's first year with Family Biz Kids. 

FKyle Ryan, Educator

Kyle Ryan is a psychology student at Allegheny College, currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree with a minor in Communications. He has over 150 hours of hands-on experience supporting kids with social-emotional and behavioral needs, including an internship at Bethesda Lutheran Services, where he co-facilitated, created, and led group therapy sessions. Kyle has also volunteered in local schools, helping elementary students build emotional regulation skills, healthy relationships, and healthy habits.

Kyle brings an energetic, thoughtful energy to Family Biz Kids programs. His background in behavioral psychology helps him connect with children and teens in a fun, supportive, and intentional way. He also serves on the board of Allegheny's Ultimate Frisbee Club, where he leads practices and mentors teammates.

Outside of work and school, Kyle loves being outside. He spends his free time hiking, disc golfing, and exploring nature whenever he gets the chance.

Natassia Pham, Educator

Natassia graduated from Cal State Long Beach with a degree in Liberal Studies. She has over 20 years of experience working in early learning preschool programs with all age groups and serving as an Assistant Director. She is a Career and Technical Education aide in Child Development, assisting high school students in a preschool setting, helping them gain real-world experience and prepare for future careers.

Natassia's curriculum is deeply rooted in the value of play, recognizing it as essential to a child's growth, supporting cognitive development, enhancing social skills, and fostering creativity and emotional resilience.

She lives in Southern California with her 13-year-old daughter. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her daughter, taking walks, going to the beach, and discovering new restaurants together. This is Natassia's first year with Family Biz Kids.

EmilyRose Keehnel, Educator

EmilyRose is a Central Washington University graduate and holds a Master of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis on middle-level mathematics. She previously earned a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education with a Reading Literacy Endorsement. Currently, EmilyRose is a certified teacher in Washington State and works in the Clover Park School District. She has experience in fifth through ninth grades teaching middle school mathematics and science. She also works as an adjunct professor for Central Washington University in their Education department.

As a life-long learner, EmilyRose enjoys gaining new knowledge and experiences through teaching, reading, traveling, and working with others. This is EmilyRose's sixth year with Family Biz Kids. 

Chelsea Wilson, Educator and Specialist

Chelsea is a graduate of Texas A&M and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Nutritional Sciences and Accelerated Teacher certification. She is a trauma-informed Yoga instructor. In addition to her Yoga classes, Chelsea teaches aerobics, dance, and nutrition classes in Coronado, CA. Chelsea enjoys teaching, especially her experiences as a camp counselor. She has worked with Family Biz Kids for the past 13 years. Family Biz Kids allows her to utilize her nutrition, education, dance, and fitness background to motivate kids to seek an increased quality of living in a fun and safe environment!

Chelsea’s interests include fitness, yoga, nutrition, authoring children’s cookbooks, health promotion, reading, surfing, and meeting new people!

Duane DeStefani, Educator

Duane holds a Master of Science in Counseling from California State University, Fullerton, and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, with a minor in Physical Education from the University of La Verne. Duane was a High School Career and Guidance Counselor in the Poway California School District for many years. He has experience working at summer camps as well as teaching and coaching several sports.

Recently, Duane was the waterfront director and lifeguard for several San Diego summer camps and surf and swim team coach at the Army and Navy Academy in Carlsbad. This is Duane’s 10th year with Family Biz Kids.

Jan Dillingham, Educator

Jan is a certified teacher in the state of New Mexico. She holds a Ph.D. and Master of Science in Physical Education and Education/Athletic Administration from the University of New Mexico. Jan also earned a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education from Colorado State University. Jan taught science and health at the Bernalillo County Juvenile Detention Center for the Albuquerque Public Schools. During her teaching career, she was fortunate to work with students from elementary to young adults.

Jan has been involved with several programs to improve science education in the state. She started a program where students grow food throughout the year to improve their nutritional awareness, experience and appreciate nature, the science of growing food, and gain life skills to improve their families and communities. This is Jan's 20th year with Family Biz Kids.