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
Diana Blackwood
Willamette Kids CDC
Director
Hi, I'm Diana. I have three kids of my own: two teenagers and a preteen. Life is a constant adventure! We've been in Eugene since 2012. I joined the Willamette Kids family to serve the community by providing a safe and loving place for kids here. I believe God has gifted me with the skills and passions to work well with His beautiful little ones and the teachers He has placed here to do His work. 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'm blessed to be part of His plan for coming alongside families and helping children know Him.
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Mandy Renfro
Pre K Teacher
Awesome Owls Classroom
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! This year I am moving up with my class to the Awesome Owls and I am excited to continue to build that bond with the students while watching them grown and learn. 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 Gallaher
Pre K Teacher
Awesome Owls Classroom
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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Kristen Alvarez
Preschool 2s Teacher
Happy Hedgehogs Classroom
Hello, my name is Kristen. I will be the teacher in the Happy Hedgehog classroom! I have been working with children ranging from infant to four year olds off and on for about six years all together. My experience is mainly with twos. I also assisted in children's ministry for several years spreading the Word of God to the littles. I am very passionate about helping children learn and express themselves through art, songs, and creative play!
Jacqueline Smith
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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Irene Koenig
Preschool 2s and 3s
Happy Hedgehogs Classroom
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Justinne Quintos
Support Staff
Hi! I'm Justinne. I am a substitute teacher and a parent to one of our Awesome Owls here! My background is in child development and I have worked with children for nine years now. I love Jesus and I'm passionate about exemplifying His way for all.
Andrea Leik
Willamette Kids
Ministry Director
I serve full time with Willamette Christian Center as the Children's Ministry Director, a position I have enjoyed for ten years, and love the relationship I get to build with kids and families in the community by serving also as the ministry supervisor of WKCDC. I have two teenage boys, two loving and large dogs, and a wonderful husband. Fun fact about me: I also have twin sister - she and I look nothing alike.
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Tracy Allen
Support Staff
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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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