Our Staff
The teaching staff at Woodlands Tree House is comprised of professional educators with knowledge and experience in teaching young children. All employees meet the licensing requirements to teach in a licensed facility in the State of Texas, including background checks, and FBI fingerprints.
We strive to hire dedicated and nurturing teachers with a passion for teaching young children. We are committed to building on that enthusiasm by supporting their professional training and continuing education. In order to work at Woodlands Tree House Preschool, all teachers and teacher assistants must receive 24 hours of in-service training every year in addition to training in CPR and First Aid.
Meet Our Teachers
Cecilia Sanchez | Director
Veronica Becerra | Office Manager
Julie Blount | Private Kindergarten Teacher
I am originally from England but Texas has been my home since 2005. I am married with two grown-up children, one grandson and live in The Woodlands. I worked for many years as head teacher at two preschools in England. I have a Diploma in Preschool Education earned in the UK and hold numerous certifications in related fields. Above all I am passionate about working with children. I have worked at Woodlands Treehouse Preschool for 7 years and I am very happy to be part of the “Treehouse Family”. As each school year comes along I look forward to working with and getting to know both the children and their families. My goal is to provide a safe and happy learning environment whereby children are excited to come through my classroom door each day. I believe if you can achieve this a child will naturally flourish.
Carmen Sanchez | Spanish Teacher Kinder & 3-Year-Olds
I was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina. I have a Bachelor Degree in Psychopedagogy (Psychology in Education) from El Salvador University, Argentina. I have a degree in Spanish as a Second Language Teacher, and a Masters in Learning Disabilities from Vic University, Spain.I have moved several times (following my husband’s job) and worked in schools in different cities and countries. I know the importance of being bilingual today and love to teach Spanish and see how the kids have fun learning.
Maria Robles Gil | English Teacher 4-year-olds
I was born in Mexico City and when I was 9, my family moved to the U.S., I grew up speaking Spanish and English. I am an AMI (America Montessori International) Teacher and have worked (on and off) with children ages 3-6 yrs since 1994. I’m passionate about teaching four-year-olds and my mission is to inspire my students to love learning through structured yet fun activities. I have been married for 23 years and have two daughters. I’m very excited to work with your children.
Maru Elizondo | Spanish Teacher 4-Year-Olds
Originally from Mexico, I have been living in The Woodlands since 2001 and began teaching preschool in 2007. I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Business and Finance and enjoy reading, playing tennis and spending time with my family. I am extremely caring, nurturing and demonstrate a very patient approach in the classroom. I am excited to be working at the WTHP with your children.
Vanessa Dawson | English Teacher 3-Year-Olds
I’m thrilled to be a part of the Woodlands Treehouse Family! As the daughter of veterans, I grew up all over America but spent most of my time in California and I consider myself a true West coast girl! In California, I studied Early Childhood Education and Social Behavioral Sciences and before joining Woodlands Treehouse I spent 3 years at The Learning Experience and another 3 years at Bear Branch Elementary working with Special Needs children. I absolutely love working with children and watching them progress every day! It’s a joy to be a part of the team and I look forward to the upcoming school year!
Ana Gabriela Ramirez | English Teacher 3-Year-Olds
I was born in Boston but was raised in Mexico. I have lived in The Woodlands since 2014 and am a graduate of The Woodlands High School. I have a degree in marketing and a minor in education from the University of St. Thomas. I have always loved being around children and I am very excited to be able to work with all the children at WTHP this year.
Jimmarie Rodriguez | English Teacher 3-Year-Olds
I am a native of Puerto Rico and have lived for 13 years in Mexico. I moved 1.5 years ago to the Woodlands with my husband and 3 children. As a homeschooling mother, I have seen the need for positive self-talk and emotional regulation in my children. I found myself emerged in Becky Bailey’s “I love you Rituals”, Conscious Discipline, practicing children meditations, working on Brain Gym, as well as Learning without Tears. Using these tools early on in life will higher the probability that they will become self-regulating adults. The best students ask lots of questions and explore their ideas openly. My job is to inspire questions and positive self-talk. I want to give students the tools they need to find their own answers and help them shine their true loving light. Whether leading a hiking group, sketching, crafting, or singing I infuse my days with imagination, love, and curiosity. My heart is in everything I do. Creativity is at the core of all of the activities I teach.
Andrea Etcharren | Spanish Teacher 3-Year-Olds
Alexa Fernandez | Spanish Teacher 3-Year-Olds
I was born in Mexico. I moved to The Woodlands almost four years ago with my husband (Mauricio) and two children (Rodrigo and Patricio). I have a degree in business and I’ve been working in early education for 7 years. I love laughing and enjoying everyday kids’ activities. I’m very happy to be part of the Woodlands Treehouse family.
Claudia Herrera | Lead Teacher 2-Year-Olds
Paloma Llanes | Lead Teacher 2-Year-Olds
I am originally from Mexico but I’ve been living in and out of the United States for more than 17 years. I have a degree in Montessori Education from NCME San Diego and I have been working with little ones for 15 years. I’m looking forward to working with the 2-year-olds this year.
Daniela Anaya | Lead Teacher 18-Month-Olds
Merrie Decker | Gardening Teacher
Emily Reynolds | Music Teacher
I was born and raised in Texas. I’m married and have two young children. I am a registered Nurse and have a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing and Community Health. I recently returned to Texas with my family after living abroad for over 7 years. During that time, I worked at the British International School of Stavanger, Norway as a Preschool Teacher and First-aid Responder. While living in Singapore a few years later, I worked as a staff nurse for the US Embassy assisting Military Personal and their families until my son was born. My family and I later moved to Perth, Australia where my daughter was born. Over the years, I have developed a passion for children, teaching, medicine, and the arts. I can’t wait to share my love of music with your child.