Meet Our Team
Each staff member at Willamette Kids Child Development Center is carefully selected for their passion and care to work with young children. They not only meet the education required by the Oregon Department of Education Early Learning Division but also exemplify a high standard of Christian teaching skills, and Christian living.
Teacher / Child ratio at Willamette Kids is state licensed to have up to 15 students in each classroom, with one head teacher and one second teacher or aid. Which means your children get excellent care and learning on a more individualized level than many other programs.
Leadership & Staff
Stephannie Rodin
Willamette Kids
Interim Director
Email Me!
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My name is Stephannie. I grew up in Central Minnesota. I have lived in either Minnesota or Oregon throughout my life. My family moved to Oregon in 2010 and have been here since. I have been caring for children all my life: from helping with my siblings, babysitting and nannying, working in childcare facilities, teaching or tutoring, including homeschooling my own children. I believe children need to be allowed to just be kids. This is why my schooling philosophy is based on child-led, play based learning, with classical elements focused on a Christian worldview. I have taken courses in Accounting and QuickBooks to expand my knowledge and be a good leader. This job has allowed me to put my love of working with children and my love of numbers and organizational skills together. When not at work, I enjoy spending time with my daughters, our friends, learning something new, and serving where I can.
Raylee Culp
Pre K Teacher
Sparrows Class
Hi, I’m Ray. My favorite color is yellow. I love avocados, building Legos and working with children. I was born and raised in Springfield, Oregon where my mother has been teaching in elementary for 20 years. Since I can remember I have always dreamed of becoming a teacher, just like her. Growing up in a house with a mother who taught me what it means to have unconditional love for others has implemented a deep-seated love for kids and helping them reach their full potential. It has been my greatest joy being able to be a part of these kids’ lives. I believe that all kids can and will be successful with the right kind of guidance, love and support. Watching that light bulb click in their little minds is what truly drives me. Children have a rare, authentic, untainted view on life and a beautiful sense of hope that inspires me. If you pay enough attention, kids will teach us all something every single day.
Mandy Renfro
Preschool 3s Teacher
Doves Class
Hi, my name is Mandy. I’m born and raised here in Eugene and I absolutely love the Oregon weather! I’ve been working with young children for five years and have cherished every moment. I started at a center working with ages 1-5 and I did a little bit of everything. I worked with all age groups, saw how the center ran, and made breakfast and lunches for the children daily. Eventually I was blessed enough to end up co-teaching in the toddlers class, and never had so much fun! While not at work, I love going to the beach with my husband and standard poodle, Rosco! I love camping and hiking when I have the time. I also love to bake and make special treats for people I love! My main goal working with young children is to give them the tools they need to become great leaders and the skills they need to become independent thinkers!
Shawnee Gallagher
Preschool 3s Teacher
Doves Class
Hello! My name is Shawnee. I’ve been married to my best friend for nearly 35 years and we have three wonderful kids of our own. I have been a part of educating children for the past thirty-plus years. From pre-school to elementary students, I have walked with children as they have learned to grow, explore, and be good friends together. As a small child, the impact teachers had on my life was foundational. It brings me joy to hear the hearts of little kids and to help them feel seen and heard and valuable, just where they are.
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Lori Whipkey
Preschool 2s Teacher
Larks Class
Hello! My name is Lori Whipkey.
I was born, raised and have lived most of my life here in Eugene. I love that we are just a day's drive from the coast, the mountains and the desert. I have loved working with young children since teaching Sunday School when I was twelve years old. Since then, in one way or another, I have been involved in Early Childhood Education. I teach because I have a strong desire to plant the seeds of God’s love in young hearts, hoping they will carry it forward through the rest of their lives.
Family is everything to me. Presently, my son and his family lives in Texas. More relatives are located in New Mexico. At home I busy myself with two sweet dogs and one mischievous creamsicle cat, When I have the time, I love shopping- for anything & everything from home decor to pet accessories to unique foods-just shopping. I also enjoy road trips and travel, when I can.
Diana Blackwood
Preschool 3s Teacher
Doves Class
Hi, I', Diana and I absolutely love working with children! I have three kids of my own, two teenagers and an eleven year old. We've been in Eugene since 2012. I am currently assisting Ms. Lori with the Larks 2 year olds class. My specialty is active play, music, dance, and conflict resolution. I believe God has given me the special gift of extra patience and love for His beautiful little ones. My goal is to help children feel safe and at ease in a childcare environment. My hope is that they will explore and learn at their own pace, guided by their loving teachers and the consistency we provide together. Jesus is the center of my life and the King of my heart. I pray constantly and follow His lead as much as possible throughout my day. His love for me tends to overflow into my work. I'm blessed to be part of His plan for coming alongside families and helping children know Him.
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Jacqueline Welch
Preschool Assistant
I joined the Willamette Preschool Family The end of March 2022. I bring with me 20 plus years of caregiving experience, majority of those year working with Children 10 years and younger. I Truly believe it is one my God given gifts. I love helping people and making new friends. I’ve been Blessed with a Beautiful Daughter In 2002 who after Jesus is the Love of my Life. I enjoy outdoor actives such as hiking, drives in the country side and coast and outreach ministry work.
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Want to join our team?
Career Opportunities at
Willamette Kids
Child Development Center
We are looking for substitute and teaching positions. If this is a team you are interested in being part of, we'd love to hear from you. To access our online application and submit your resume, click the link below.
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