My name is Kim Cortez and I teach the Cubs and Teddies class. I started at Nature’s Pointe Cooperative Preschool as a parent, in
2013. My family and I feel so fortunate to have found a school that offered a play-based, child-centered approach, as it was certainly best for our children. This preschool and I have grown
together, looking for ways that best meet the needs of each child where they are at. Our staff and parents are phenomenal, as we care for one another and engage in best practices for
developmentally appropriate learning. I continue to research early childhood in my roles as a preschool teacher, and now graduate student.
 
I have my B.S. in Elementary Education from Illinois State University, and have taught for thirteen years — twelve were at preschools. I enjoy children of preschool age because their excitement for discovery is contagious! When you see a child’s eyes light-up, it is like watching connections, realizations, and fascination happen at once!

 

My husband and I have three children, one dog, two cats, one bearded dragon, and recently we acquired a fish. Our two daughters are fourteen and twelve, and our son is nine. This past year
we enjoyed games, movies, baking, and camping together. I liked walking, gardening, biking, hiking, reading, and art. Our big adventure this summer was a three week camping and National
Park tour. I can’t wait for our next trip!