The staff is comprised of fully qualified teachers and aides who bring with them a variety of personal and professional experiences. Teachers are required to continue their education each year by attending classes or workshops relevant to their work with young children. Once a year, an in-service day is taken by the staff.

Reina Rogers, Director, is very excited to begin her second year at Oneonta this fall. She attended University of California, Santa Barbara to earn her Bachelor of Arts degree and went on to attend University of California, Irvine to earn her Multiple Subject Clear Teaching Credential with CLAD Emphasis. After earning her credential, Reina taught elementary school for 10 years in Irvine and La Cañada. As an Oneonta parent, she served on the Parent Executive Board for six years in multiple capacities. In her last year, Reina demonstrated her strong leadership skills as she served as the Board President. As her children’s preschool experience came to a close, Reina was offered the role of School Director. She has taken several Education Administration courses at University of California, Los Angeles. Reina’s interests include spending time with her family, reading, and enjoying the outdoors.

Karen Vahala received her B.A. in Studio Art from Scripps College in 1985 and a Certificate Degree in Textile and Surface Design from FIDM in 1988. Following a career as a graphic artist, she took a hiatus to start a family. She joined Oneonta as the three-year old teacher in 2006 after having been on the parent board for four years during the years of her two children’s attendance. Currently working towards her certificate in Early Childhood Education, Karen also enjoys spending her time gardening, reading and hiking.

Dolores Alvarez joined Oneonta Cooperative Nursery School in 2002 as the Teacher’s Aide for the three year-old classes. In March 2008, she was offered and accepted the position as a teacher for the four day four-year-old class. Dolores started her career in Education while her two children attended Arroyo Vista Elementary School in South Pasadena. She progressed from classroom volunteer to employment as Yard Supervisor. Dolores received her Child Development Permit in Early Childhood at Pasadena City College, and is certified in CPR and First Aid. Dolores plans on continuing her degree in Education while teaching at Oneonta. She also enjoys spending time with her family, reading a good book, and making creative chocolates.

Ellen Main joined the Oneonta teaching staff in 2010. However, she is not new to the school. Her four parent board positions spanned the course of five years and two children. She is thrilled to now be a part of the staff, and to share her experience with the community. Ellen worked as an elementary school teacher for eight years, taught preschool throughout her college years, and continues to be an active volunteer in her children’s classrooms. Ellen received her Masters of Teaching and Teaching Credential from Occidental College, her BA from California State University, Chico, and her AA in Sacramento. Her interests include reading, relaxing, and good friends.