Our Teachers
Teachers are the heart of Early Discoveries. Their loving, caring, warm and responsiveness builds trust with children and their families. This trusting relationship supports their learning and development. Teachers have many roles; however, the first role as a teacher is to facilitate. Techers must be intentional in how they facilitate so that each child has the opportunity for positive learning experiences according to their individual needs. Other roles include note takes, observers, listeners, and communicators. Teachers learn how to observe and take notes to see which skills children have mastered or need more support. Teachers are listeners, and know how to communicate ideas, suggestions, questions and/or concerns with others
Every teacher attends special trainings in early childhood education to support their understating of the different stages of children's' development. Understanding growth and development helps them guide behavior with patience and understanding.
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We believe that parents are the most significant adults in a child's life therefore, our teachers are dedicated in building a team with parents to provide the best possible education and care. Together we can do an excellent job in guiding your child's development.
Isela Fajardo
Ms. Isela was born and raised in the valley, and her first language is Spanish. She comes from a rich cultural background, with roots in both Mexico and Guatemala. Her love of travel began with family visits to her parents' homelands, and she has now explored three countries, including Canada.
As the oldest sibling, Ms. Isela enjoys spending time with her younger sister, who is currently in high school. She also adores her family’s pet rabbit, Bluebell. In her free time, Ms. Isela loves visiting local coffee shops, exploring new towns and states, attending community events, playing tennis, and watching Broadway musicals. She also has a passion for camping and four-wheeling.
Ms. Isela values building strong, meaningful connections with each of her students. She believes in fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment where every child feels seen and valued.
Makenna Lake
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Hello! I am Ms. Makenna. I was born and raised here in the Wenatchee Valley. I live in town with my husband, our husky, Simba, and our cat Fiona. I am in my second quarter at the University of Washington to earn my bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Care and Education. I have been caring for children for well over a decade and have been in a classroom setting for 8 years. My teaching philosophy involves educating through play and focusing on social-emotional learning. When I' not in a classroom or doing homework, I am crafting, reading, or out in nature! My last name is Lake so I feel most comfortable between a body of water and a forest.
Jordan Adams
Jordan grew up in the small town of Waterville and is currently attending WVC for Early Care and Education. She loves the outdoors, camping and dirt biking. Her interest working with chidlren started when she was in middle school and started babysitting for a local family. When she graduated, she knew she wanted to work with chidlren and their families. "Children are so unique and special as they are a new life in this world". She loves the connections she has with each toddler and their families while watching them grow and develop into their own personalities. Jordan has been with Early Discoveries for over two years and is currently the lead teacher of he toddler room.
Verne Hibbard
Facility Manager, Co-owner
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Verne is the facility manager and co-owner. He brings many years of management and organizational skills to the program. In addition to this, Verne keeps Early Discoveries up to date with the latest technology programs, apps and services.
Krystal Wrynn
Krystal is 21 and will soon be attending Wenatchee Valley College to obtain her AAS-T. She loves kids and loves teaching them and helping them learn new things.
Linda Hibbard
Director, Co-owner
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Linda is the director and co-owner of Early Discoveries. In addition to over 30 years of experience in many early childhood development related programs, she has her bachelor’s degree in early childhood education from the University of Washington and her masters degree in education from Eastern Washington University. She is currently working on her Elementary Education teaching certificate.