Our Staff
Jennifer Golden, Ed.S
Director of Early Childhood Education
My name is Jennifer Golden, and I am the Director of Early Childhood Education. I have a passion for early childhood education. I believe these are the most important years for establishing a life-long love of learning.
Miss Sherri
AtelierMy name is Sherri Cohen, I am the Atelierista at Oak Park Neighborhood Preschool since 2002. As the Atelierista, I serve as the visual voice of our school and follow the interests of the children to guide their creative expression. In Italian, "Atelierista" translates to "art teacher." Each year I introduce a variety of art forms, materials, and techniques to our students.
I hold a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Art, as well as a master's degree in Higher Education and Business. Additionally, I have completed further studies in Early Childhood Education. For the past 30 years, I have worked in both elementary and preschool settings, where working with preschoolers has been incredibly fun and rewarding. I look forward to working with your children—it’s always an exciting adventure!
Miss Lisa
Room 16My name is Lisa Strumwasser, and I am a passionate preschool teacher with over 20 years of experience at Oak Park Neighborhood Preschool. I hold a Bachelor's degree in Liberal Studies from California State University, Northridge and pursued extensive graduate courses in education. Additionally, I hold a Site Supervisor Permit in Early Childhood Education. I have a strong foundation in the Reggio Emilia approach, having attended numerous workshops and participated in a group study held in Reggio Emilia, Italy. This experience has deeply enriched my teaching philosophy, emphasizing creativity, exploration, and child-centered learning. I am proud to have been part of the OPUSD community for over two decades, fostering a love of learning in our youngest students and creating a nurturing environment where they can grow and thrive.
Miss Lynda
Room 17
Hi! My name is Lynda Skaggs. With over 30 years of experience in nurturing young minds, I am dedicated to creating a warm and supportive environment where children can grow.
I have been teaching at OPNP since 2005, and I love being part of this wonderful community. Before joining OPNP, I spent 12 years teaching at Little Oaks Preschool, where I gained valuable experience working with young children and helping them reach their full potential.
I earned my early childhood education units at Moorpark College and have continually updated my skills and knowledge to stay current in the field. My teaching philosophy centers on the belief that every child is unique and capable, and it’s my goal to help each child develop their confidence, curiosity, and creativity.
I look forward to continuing to inspire and guide the next generation of learners at OPNP!
Miss Nicole
My name is Nicole Hanson. I have worked at OPNP since 2011, where I am an Assistant Teacher who enjoys helping facilitate the children's exploration, discovery, growth, and development.
Prior to OPNP, I taught at the International School of Stuttgart in Germany.
I have a Bachelor's degree in Sociology with an Art minor, as well as a California Multiple Subject Teaching Credential from CSUN, and additional Early Childhood Education Units from Moorpark College. I also participate in Reggio-based educational workshops and conferences when possible.
Miss Sarah
Hi. My name is Sarah Sommer. I have been an assistant teacher at OPNP since 2008. Prior to working here, I worked at 2 other local preschools, but I truly feel like I’ve found my forever school here.
I received my Early Childhood Education units from Moorpark College where I gained valuable insight into the joy of preschoolers.
I enjoy going to Reggio conferences and workshops and learning new things to bring to the classroom.
I look forward to many more years at Oak Park Neighborhood Preschool.