Meet the Preschool Team
2021-2022
Waverly’s preschool teachers have substantial knowledge of child development, years of experience working with young children, and a strong commitment to the philosophy of the preschool program.
Connie Rodarte
Connie is the preschool director/teacher. Connie has a B.A. in Spanish and human development from the University of California, Davis. She previously worked at The Little Preschool as a preschool teacher and summer program director. Connie says, “Every day is a new learning opportunity when working with children. Their daily discoveries serve as a reminder of the importance of creating an environment that supports their developmental needs.” (Email)
Stephanie Brito
Stephanie is the preschool associate teacher. Stephanie graduated with a Bachelor’s in child development from Humboldt University. Most recently, she worked at Altadena Children’s Center with the toddler group.
Marina Dahlen
Marina is a preschool teacher. She has an A.A. degree from the College of the Redwoods with an emphasis in early childhood education. Marina is one of the founding teachers of The Waverly School and has worked with young children for more than 30 years. Marina says, “I am inspired by how the students are willing to teach as much as they are willing to learn.” Marina’s son Emmett ‘08 graduated from Waverly. (Email)
Cheenu Kashyap
Cheenu is a preschool teacher. She has a B.A. from the Government College for Women in Punjab, India, and has studied early childhood development and education at Pasadena City College and through UCLA Extension. Of Waverly’s approach to teaching, Cheenu says,“Above all, we appreciate that every student will have a different path, and that it is incumbent upon us to understand each student’s journey thus far as well as the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. We provide students with tools to reach farther, a supportive platform where they are comfortable taking risks, and a culture of celebrating values-based decisions.” Cheenu loves to cook and she has two sons, one of whom also teaches at Waverly. (Email)
Nancy Ortega
Nancy is our long-term substitute teacher in the preschool. Nancy graduated Los Angeles Mission College with an Associate’s Degree in child development. She most recently worked at New Horizon School in Pasadena as a preschool teacher.