The Open School teachers work together to design, coordinate, and implement a program that promotes independent play and exploration. The program develops students’ self-esteem while addressing the needs of each individual child. The teachers provide a well-rounded program, working together to allow the students to experience language arts, social studies, science, and mathematics. The staff strives to achieve continuous progress in all areas of child development. Students explore academics through appropriate activities such as music, language classes, cooking, arts and crafts, physical activities, and field trips. Teachers communicate with parents regularly and encourage parental involvement whenever possible.
Each cooperative group of teachers includes a lead teacher and full-time and/or part-time teacher aides as the schedule and enrollment demand. Teachers actively support the Open School philosophy and values. Teachers play an important role in accomplishing the mission and meeting the needs of The Open School Students. Teachers have Bachelor degrees in Early Childhood related degree programs or Elementary Education degrees. All teachers and staff also satisfy DFS licensing requirements for certified child care centers, including required education, training, experience, background check, positive references, CPR/First Aid, etc. Teachers continue their education annually to stay current in early childhood best practices.
Director:
Shelly McFate- Director. A member of The Open School team since September of 2009. Bachelor of Science, Human Services/Early Childhood – Montana State University-Billings, Member of NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children).
Email: openschool1@hotmail.com
Lead Teaching Staff:
Laura Shuler – PreKindergarten Teacher. A member of The Open School team since August of 2014. Bachelor of Science, Family & Community Services- University of Wyoming.
Email: prek1class@laramieopenschool.org
Reanna Schuckman – Transitional Kindergarten Teacher. A member of The Open School team since August of 2001. Bachelor of Education – University of Wyoming; Associates of Arts in Education/Child Development – Laramie County Community College.
Email: tkclass@laramieopenschool.org
Brea Moralez – Preschool Teacher. A member of The Open School team since August of 2020. Coursework completed at University of Wyoming, Member of NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children).
Email: preschool@laramieopenschool.org