Meet Our Teachers and Staff!

Anna (Chickadees)

Hello, my name is Angela Shindelus and I've been an Early Childhood Educator for sixteen years.  Before that, I was an Au Pair for twenty years to many families in Marin County.  I have an education in ECE, but more importantly I have a lifetime of being with children.  My passion is working with children, to help them thrive in life and to encourage their curiosity.  I specialize in the Outdoor Classroom, teaching children about nature and all that it has to offer.  I have spent my life exciting children about the world around them, encouraging them to explore and to ask questions.  I have lived in Marin County for the last thirty-two years, and I have two beautiful daughters who are the light of my life.  My goal is to share many various experiences with the children, so they can learn more about the world that surrounds them.  I look forward to meeting all of our families, and to make wonderful memories together throughout the years.  Namaste...

Yoseline (Chickadees)

Hello! My name is Yoselin. I am from Guatemala and I am the proud mother of three beautiful children — two girls and my baby boy. I have been working in the early childhood education field for one year and I truly enjoy supporting young children as they learn and grow. My goal is to continue taking early childhood education classes so I can expand my knowledge and provide the best care and learning experience for every child.

Ang (Bluebirds)

Ang Papia is a Teacher in the Preschool (Bluebirds) room at SGCC.  She has worked with children for over 30 years as a nanny, childcare provider, First Five Kindergarten Readiness teacher, and preschool teacher.  Ang received her Early Childhood Education training from the College of Marin and holds a State of California Early Childhood Teachers Permit. She loves to play, be active and creative, and is committed to forming genuine relationships with the children in her care. Ang is the mother of two sons and was born and raised in the San Geronimo Valley.  She has a deep connection to the community and passion for teaching young children.

Lillian (Bluebirds)

Hi, my name is Lillian Ayroso. I was a preschool teacher for 15 years before taking a 14-year hiatus to raise my two beautiful boys, Micajh and Eli. I am now back doing what I love. I have a BA in Child Development and have been trained in Conscious Discipline. I am excited to be part of the San Geronimo Child Care Center team and look forward to teaching and loving your children.

Bernice (Redbirds)

Bernice West is the Redbirds teacher at SGCC and has taught in all three programs. She has worked with children for over 50 years; assisting in her mother’s home day care, teaching elementary school, and then preschool and childcare.  Bernice has a special fondness for early childhood development and the concepts of learning through play, exploration, and cultivation of language.  She has a BA in liberal studies, a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential (From CSU Sacramento), and additional ECE credits from the College of Marin.  Bernice is the mother of 2 adult daughters who both attended SGCC. She has lived in Lagunitas for 30 years, and Marin County for four generations.

Rosa (Redbirds)

Hello! My name is Rosa Victoria Manzo. I am a passionate preschool teacher who believes that every child learns best through play, creativity, and exploration. I have over five years of experience working with young children and I love creating a warm, nurturing classroom where every child feels safe and valued. My goal is to help children build confidence, develop social skills, and foster a lifelong love of learning. When I’m not teaching, I enjoy reading, crafting, and spending time with my four kids.

Sophia (Cook / Afternoon Program Teacher)

Hi, I'm Sophia Adams I grew up in Guatemala and am now the proud mom of a wonderful three-year-old who inspired my deeper interest in early childhood development. I've been caring for children from infants as young as 3 months to kids up to 9 years old since I was a teenager, and I've always loved working with families. I also have 13 years of experience in the restaurant industry, including several years as a cook, I found joy in teaching little ones one of life's most beautiful skills, cooking! I love painting, music, and dance, and enjoy bringing creativity into everyday learning. I'm also learning and growing alongside the children every day, which is one of the most rewarding parts of this journey. I feel so lucky to be part of such an amazing and supportive team. Since moving to this beautiful area six years ago, I've come to truly appreciate the sense of community and kindness that lives here. I'm excited to be part of helping children learn, grow, and feel loved.

Amber (Aid)

Amber Simon is a proud alumna of our program and a third-generation resident of the San Geronimo Valley. Her deep roots in the community, combined with her passion for ceramics, music, art, and nature, bring warmth and creativity to the classroom. Amber's enthusiasm for hands-on learning and connection to the natural world enrich our program whenever she is with us. She has been a wonderful addition to our substitute teaching team, and we are grateful to have her as part of our school community.

Graciela (Aid)

Hi my name is Graciela Lopez. I like working with children and accompanying them in their development in a safe, loving and learning environment. I enjoy fostering their creativity, independence and confidence through play and daily activities. I have experience in the care and education of young children, and I strive to provide them with a space where they feel happy, respected and valued.

Jeanette (Substitute Teacher)

Jeanette West is a proud alumna of our program and a second-generation teacher, working alongside her mother, Bernice, our Lead Redbird Teacher. With an extensive background in musical theater, Jeanette brings creativity, energy, and joy to the classroom every day. Her passion for the arts enriches our curriculum through music, movement, storytelling, and imaginative play, creating engaging learning experiences for children. We are incredibly fortunate to have Jeanette as part of our teaching team and school community.

Sadie (Administrator)

Sadie Carter is our Administrator and also provides part-time classroom support. A lifelong resident of the San Geronimo Valley and a second-generation SGCC alumna, she has a deep connection to both the school and the community it serves. Sadie holds a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature and Greek, Latin & Ancient Mediterranean Studies. Her love of gardening, hiking, and the outdoors is reflected in the experiences she brings to our program.

Kelley (Director)

Kelley Wheatley is an early childhood education leader with more than 15 years of experience supporting children, families, and educators. She holds a Master of Arts in Education from San Francisco State University and has spent much of her career in Head Start and Early Head Start programs, leading high-quality, inclusive learning environments. Kelley is passionate about building strong partnerships with families, mentoring staff, and creating programs where children can thrive. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her daughter, Trulee, who continues to inspire her commitment to early learning and community.