Erica Stuckey
Owner/Chief of Laughs
In 2017, I embarked on an ambitious journey to establish Wind Rose, driven by a vision to create not just a school, but a thriving community. As the founder and leader of Wind Rose, my journey has been one of constant evolution, adapting to the growing needs of our diverse student body, dedicated staff, and supportive parents. My commitment to this community has been unwavering, as I continuously seek innovative ways to enhance our educational environment and nurture a sense of belonging among all.
My background as a lead teacher, staff trainer, mentor, and administrator has been integral in shaping the ethos of Wind Rose. My expertise in curriculum development, with a special focus on yoga, music, and foreign languages, continues to inform our unique approach to education, deeply rooted in Montessori principles. After completing my Bachelor’s degree in Biology from the University of Arkansas, I returned to Las Vegas to earn my AMS teaching certification from the Montessori Training of Southern Nevada, further solidifying my dedication to this educational philosophy.
Beyond education, my passions include the natural world and artistic pursuits. I enjoy mushroom hunting and bird watching, immersing myself in the tranquility of forests. Additionally, composing children's music on the ukulele and photography are creative outlets that enrich my life and inspire my approach to education, blending science, art, and well-being into our curriculum.
Bec Forbes
Assistant Director
Bec has been dedicated to teaching young children since 2011 when she started her teaching degree while living in China. It was here that she established her own pre-school nursery in the hustle and bustle in the alleyways of Beijing—or “hutongs” as they are referred by locals. During her eight years of being owner and lead nursery teacher she developed a passion for the Montessori pedagogy and philosophy, and slowly infused Montessori inspired aspects into her classroom environment— and in 2020 she received her AMS Montessori teaching credential.
Bec strongly believes that children should experience education. That is, they should not simply be given education, but rather, teachers should create opportunities through carefully prepared environments that provides what they need to nurture the inherent impulses that appear at the onset of sensitive periods of learning. Her deep trust in the child means she offers authentic experiences that enable them achieve self-discovery and exploration through a holistic approach to education—thus, helping children grow into independent, confident, and curious individuals who seek lifelong learning.
As a newcomer to Seattle (coming from a three-year stint in beautiful Peru), you will find Bec enjoying her weekends with her husband, daughter and her 12-year old forever puppy, Balthazar, as they explore the sights and tastes of Seattle.
Emily Bull
Shire Teacher
Emily, the oldest of four, has been in a teacher role for as long as she can remember. As a teen, she built her own babysitting network, which led to nannying and eventually earning her degree in Early Childhood Education. For the past five years, Emily has been teaching preschool with a primary focus on the Reggio Emilia philosophy and is excited to dive into Montessori learning. Her favorite aspect of teaching is fostering community and supporting the interests and curiosities of the children. In her spare time, Emily enjoys knitting, record collecting, reading, baking, graphic design, and spending time with her dog, Ivy. She loves connecting with others through music and is always eager to discuss what you’ve been listening to lately!
Megan Coon
Shire Teacher
My love for working with children started early, helping in my mother's Sunday school and volunteering in our church nursery, then expanding as I ventured into nannying, where I witnessed children's development from infancy through preschool. My formal journey in early childhood education deepened when I discovered Montessori, starting as an assistant toddler teacher in North Bend, captivated by the independence and capabilities of young children. Adventures later led me to West Seattle, where I became a lead teacher at a mindfulness-focused school, exploring young minds' depth with concepts like compassion and presence, and integrating outdoor learning. Outside the classroom, I'm a writer, yogi, meditation enthusiast, and an explorer of the metaphysical, passionate about crystals and Tarot, and a certified Reiki II practitioner. At Wind Rose, I am drawn to the balanced approach of indoor Montessori work cycles and enriching outdoor exploration. I deeply respect the values at Wind Rose and am eager to contribute to our community, looking forward to growing alongside our students and exploring new adventures.
Kimie Gammon
Rivendell Teacher
Kimie has been teaching since 2018, though her passion for working with children started back in high school when she helped with her elementary school's before and after school care program. After earning her degree in Elementary Education in Minnesota, she spent the past five years teaching preschool, primarily in a half-day morning pre-K classroom, while also working with 2.5 to 3-year-olds in the afternoons. Kimie truly treasures the curiosity, joy, and wonder that children of this age bring to school. As an early childhood teacher, she cherishes the opportunity to be part of a child's first journey in school as they discover the joy of learning.
Originally born in Hawaii, Kimie moved to Minnesota at a young age and has spent most of her life in the Midwest. She now lives in Seattle with her boyfriend and their sweet rescue mutt, Gunther, and she is excited to explore everything Washington has to offer. When not teaching, you can find her hiking with Gunther, trying new restaurants, or illustrating and creating watercolor art.
Jes Funk
Rivendell Teacher
Jes grew up playing in the waves and sand down in the Lowcountry of Charleston, South Carolina. From a young age, she showed an interest in the arts, particularly acting and creative writing. This led her to auditioning for a creative arts school, where she majored in theatre. After seven years of study at Charleston County School of the Arts, she left having written several sketch scenes, performed in dozens of plays, directed choreographed stage fight scenes, all eventually leading her to create a one act, one-woman show. However, one of her favorite aspects about theatre is the use of imagination; it so easily translates to young learners and dreamers.
After many adventures, Jes enrolled at the University of Washington for her degree in early childhood and family studies. There she focused on the benefits of social emotional development through play and outdoor exploration. Her love for education in the outdoors strengthened when she conducted her student teaching in Trondheim, Norway. There she had her first dose of the outdoor pedagogy: peer-to-peer scaffolding, risky play, and the importance of having time for children to learn through their play.
In 2020, Jes launched a new outdoor preschool site in Sequim, WA for Magnolia Forest Preschool. Seeing the wonder on a little child's face when they finally climb over a challenging log for the first time, or discover a new friend, or being able to recognize what is happening with their emotions- is irreplaceable. Having this special time to explore, teach, and learn has strengthened her own love of keeping a sense of wonder about the world.