Peachblossoms Preschool (ages 3-6)

Laurel Gourrier

Peachblossoms Lead Teacher

I am a native of Ohio but have called many places home and lean into those experiences as I navigate life. With a Master's in Special Education from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, I began my journey of supporting families first as a special education teacher, then as a family advocate, specifically serving children on the Autism spectrum. The birth of my children shifted my own work in some ways. I started a podcast called Birth Stories in Color and began working as a birth/ postpartum doula, supporting families throughout Central Ohio and in New Orleans. My family was introduced to Waldorf education during our time in New Orleans, and we are thrilled to be a part of the Juniper School Community. After a year working with the aftercare program, I am looking forward to taking the lead in the full-day early childhood class.

Maddie DiSalvo

Peachblossoms Assistant

I have always had a passion for teaching and helping youth experience life in a fun and creative way. Growing up, I’ve always wanted to be someone who could inspire and make others feel empowered with their own strengths and uniqueness in life. In my freetime, I enjoy crafting and creating art, practicing yoga, and connecting with nature. I also teach BodyFlow, a yoga-style fitness class, at the YMCA which brings me peace and serenity. I graduated from The Ohio State University with my Bachelor’s in Social Work in May of 2022 and received my LSW soon after. During my time at OSU, my internships allowed me to gain perspective working with individuals from all backgrounds, as I supported youth and have always been an advocate for mental health. I feel gravitated towards Waldorf education, as my own perspective and values in life reflect with the essence of Waldorf principles. It feels so natural for me to be apart of the Juniper community, and I plan on going back to school to pursue my Master’s Degree in Waldorf education.

Rosebuds Preschool (ages 3-6)

Jeny Kuss

Rosebuds Lead Teacher

 I grew up among the pines in Alexandria, Ohio which inspired my magnetism toward nature and the outdoor world. I studied sociology and community studies at the University of Colorado before a multicultural study in Australia, completing my undergraduate work. I lived and had my first daughter in Oregon, enjoying the green moss and of the Pacific Northwest. There, I spent my working hours coordinating special needs international adoptions and free time on the mountain and enjoying the creativity that surrounds the area.

After moving back to Ohio, I found the Juniper School. There is a richness and depth here that truly cultivates kindness, compassion, imagination and critical thought. The Juniper School is a warm place filled with beautiful, teachers and community members whose passion and authenticity inspire me daily.

 When I’m not spending time with my two girls, I can be found dreaming up travel adventures or in Alexandria, OH hosting weddings and events at my family’s historic barn.

Waterlilies Kindergarten (ages 5 and 6)

Amruta Ghanekar

Waterlilies Lead Teacher

In my pursuit of new creative endeavors, I was excited to find the Waldorf Kindergarten Teacher opportunity with The Juniper School. As a progressive professional with Waldorf Kindergarten experience, I believe that I can bring valuable contributions to the faculty.   My philosophy is that introducing fresh perspectives and new techniques allow schools to evolve and grow.  I am Certified Walforf Kindergarten Teacher who fosters growth and development in children while encouraging strong connection with families. I strive to be a teacher who connects to the young child at multiple levels -body, soul and spirit, which enables to create an environment of love, care and warmth for the learning to unfold in the most natural way.

Tiffany Jackson

Waterlilies Assistant

I grew up in Pennsylvania and am happy to be in Columbus with my four children (But I can often be found driving back to Pittsburgh to visit family!)  My professional background is in art and graphic design. I’ve also worked in a natural food coop and appreciate the balance and health that comes with eating fresh and local. I am humbled to be a part of this school. I look forward to watching the children learn and grow in this wonderful healthy and peaceful space.

Marigolds: Grades One and Two

Nicole Graf

Marigolds Lead Teacher

I am originally from Dayton, OH and attended school at Miami University for Early Childhood Education. I’ve taught preschool through third grade in Western Australia, California and Minnesota and earned a Masters degree in Education from University of Minnesota Duluth. I have also taught the Early Childhood classes at The Juniper School for the past eight years. As a Certified Simplicity Parenting Coach, I’m delighted to offer parent/community classes at The Juniper School. I am committed and eager to formalize my relationship with Waldorf Education as I pursue my path to a formal credential.

Sunflowers: Grades Three and Four

Marcelle Gilkerson 

Sunflowers Lead Teacher

Ms. Marcelle grew up on the coast of Connecticut and moved to Ohio in 1992. She has always had a passion for working with children and her experience as an educator includes teaching puppetry and rocketry at YMCA camps in her teenage years, teaching K-5 art at Ecole Francaise, assistant teaching the early childhood program at Briar Rose Children's Center, co-directing a Family Camp in Barnet, VT for five summers and mentoring at the Columbus Learning Cooperative alternative school for self-directed learning. Marcelle has a BFA in Graphic Design and also has fifteen years of experience working in design on creative teams and as a freelancer. She has two children who are now young adults and inspire her immeasurably.

Clovers: Grades Five and Six

Kate Curlis

Clovers Lead Teacher

I am from rural Wyandot County, Ohio and was raised on a multi-generational family farm there. I have been teaching for over 15 years: with Peace Corps Thailand, as a Special Education Teacher in the public schools of Chicago, Boulder and Columbus, and at the Juniper School. I hold a Master’s Degree in Special Education. Along with other Faculty, I am engaged in the Waldorf Foundation Studies Course through the Cincinnati Waldorf School and have taken coursework through the Sunbridge Institute as our school grows.

To touch the world of a child’s imagination and heart in such a way that allows them to cultivate their own intelligence is an art and a practice. May countless children and families grow strong and kind through their time spent at the Juniper School!

Grades Specialists

Zaryana Bezu

Art Specialist

I was born and raised in the old and beautiful city of Kiev, Ukraine. I came to the U.S. in 1998 to study art at Columbus College of Art and design where I got my BFA majoring in illustration. My passion to work with children led me to teach art classes for many years and in 2010 I founded Children’s Art Program (CAP) an after school art classes for children ages 3-15 y.o. The Waldorf educational methods and approach always were my guide and inspiration to introduce art to young children.

Since 2014, I have worked at the Juniper School and I have taken a  number of classes at the Waldorf Institute of Southeastern Michigan. Knowing how important these early years of childhood are in the overall development of a child gives me a great honor and delight to be able to be a part of this beautiful magic-filled time.

Working with young children, storytelling and puppetry, also, greatly influenced my work as an artist. You can see my artworks at: www.bezuart.com

Roselyne Foley-Rabasse

French Specialist

I was born in Reims, France and studied liberal arts. I worked as a translator/interpreter when I moved to Columbus in 1995. I have found my calling in teaching French to children for the past 15 years. I have very much enjoyed teaching French in enrichment programs at various elementary schools in metro Columbus as well as private lessons/tutoring.

I am very excited to join Juniper school with its unique form of education combining body, mind, and spirit. I will introduce French through songs, stories and games to develop their cultural awareness.

Administration Staff