ENC Nature Preschool Team

Vanessa Sener ENC Nature Preschool Director

email me | 949-629-1044 ext. 201

Vanessa, a lifelong Orange County resident, discovered her passion for the natural world during her formative years exploring the scenic beauty of her hometown, San Clemente.

With a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Pacific Oaks College of Education, Vanessa brings over 20 years of expertise as an inclusive Early Years Educator to the ENC Nature Preschool. Her journey with the Environmental Nature Center began even before the preschool’s inception, transitioning from ENC Member to Camp Naturalist. Over the years, Vanessa advanced within the organization, taking on pivotal roles such as Lead Nature Teacher in the Bear Classroom and our program’s Curriculum Coordinator.

Vanessa is passionate about nurturing children’s growth through play-based, child-led philosophies. She is committed to creating an environment where every child feels valued, inspired, and empowered to explore, reflect, and develop a strong sense of self. Her approach focuses on fostering curiosity, independence, and meaningful connections that support lifelong learning.

Vanessa’s contributions to the field of early childhood education have earned her significant recognition. In 2022, she was awarded Outstanding Early Childhood Education Professional of the Year by the Orange County Association for the Education of Young Children. In 2024, she received the Outstanding STEM Educator of the Year in Early Education award, from The OC STEM Initiative, honoring her innovative integration of STEM into early learning experiences.

A dedicated mentor and leader, Vanessa continually strives to elevate her impact in the field of early education. She is an active member of the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and proudly serves on the board of the Orange County Association for the Education of Young Children (OCAEYC), a NAEYC affiliate.

Nicolle Callan ENC Nature Preschool Assistant Director

Kathy Satchell Enrollment and Program Administrator

email me | 949-629-1044 ext. 200

With over 35 years in Early Childhood Education, Kathy has dedicated her expertise to children from Toddlers to Pre-K. Her last 25 years have been marked by significant contributions in an administrative capacity.

Serving as the essential glue for the Nature Preschool, Kathy has been an integral part of the team since its inception.
Having earned a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education with a minor in Sociology from California State University Fullerton, Kathy is grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with an outstanding community that shares a deep passion for both nature and children.

Growing up in the serene mountain community of Wrightwood, Kathy found herself surrounded by nature, fostering a childhood filled with immersive outdoor activities. From exploring the wooded trails to embracing the tranquility of the mountains, her upbringing in this quaint locale shaped a connection to the natural world.

Kathy finds joy in camping with her husband and two daughters, taking walks with her dogs, and immersing herself in creative crafting projects. Refugio State Beach holds a special place in her heart, as it’s her family’s cherished spot for spending Thanksgiving.

Garden Specialist at ENC Nature Preschool

The Garden Specialist at ENC Nature Preschool spends time with children daily. Children work directly in the soil and garden, strengthening their connection and understanding of the physical world around them. The seasonal transformation that happens in a garden sparks immeasurable learning. Children engage in hands-on experiences, developing a genuine understanding of cause and effect, growth, living, dying and decay. They also develop an insightful understanding of life cycles. This is seen in both plants and animals – from seed to eating or composting, or from egg to larva to pupa to adult. Children learn which plants and animals can be garden helpers or garden harmers and are dutiful with protecting the garden from what might cause harm. Children experience the colorful world of fruits and vegetables by planting, transplanting, harvesting, preparing, and tasting the foods that they’ve helped to grow. Our Garden Specialist bridges connections from home to school by asking children about their home experiences with gardening, cooking, and composting. Through these conversations, children grow a profound respect and love with not only the garden, but the entirety of nature. Nothing is more magical than seeing children explore the meaningful dynamics of a garden! “If kids don’t touch and experience nature, why would they want to save it?”

Devon Kate O’Connor Nature Teacher, Class 1 “Tortoise Classroom”

Devon was born and raised in Ireland where she completed her Bachelor of Science degree before moving to the United States. She has been working with children ages 2-5 for 8 years and has a passion for language development and nurturing independence. When she’s not in the classroom she can be found playing on multiple sports teams, trying out new vegan recipes, or learning something new!

Emily Pavlik Nature Teacher, Class 1 “Tortoise Classroom”

Keely Hare Nature Teacher, Class 1 “Tortoise Classroom”

Keely, a native of Orange, CA is about to finish an Associate Degree at Orange Coast College this Spring. Following this milestone, she plans to pursue further studies at a university. With seven years of experience working with children aged 0-8, she is deeply committed to nurturing the social and emotional growth of young ones. Keely firmly believes that emotions and needs underlie every behavior. In her leisure time, she indulges in activities like collaging, painting, yoga, movie-watching, and having picnics with friends.

Coley Tull Nature Teacher, Class 1 “Tortoise Classroom”

With 14 years of dedicated experience in early childhood, Nicole is passionate about fostering a love of learning in young children. Over the years she has cultivated a nurturing and creative classroom where every child feels valued and encouraged to explore their unique potential. 

Nicole holds an AA Degree and acquired her child development courses through Orange Coast College. Her teaching philosophy centers on the belief that play is essential to learning, and she integrates hands-on activities, music, storytelling, and imaginative play into daily lessons. 

When Nicole is not in the classroom, she loves spending time with/making memories with her husband, friends and family. Some of her favorite activities include cooking, swimming, singing at church, hiking, camping, and fishing.

Emma Ripplinger Nature Teacher, Class 2, “Coyote Classroom”

Emma is thrilled to be a part of the ENC team! She has been teaching preschool in various capacities for the last 8 years and has loved and learned from each experience. Emma received her BA in Education Sciences, with minors in Psychology and Social Behavior and Philosophy, from UC Irvine in 2018 and she has a M.A. in Early Childhood Development from Pacific Oaks College of Education. Working with children is, in her opinion, the most rewarding occupation out there! She strives to be her best self for her students, at all times. Both teaching and nature are fundamental passions of Emma’s, and she attributes this to her parents – her mom the educator and her dad the hiker. Emma was quite literally raised hugging trees, searching for bears in the mountains, and in wonderful classrooms all over! When she’s not teaching, she can be found hiking, splashing in the ocean, or playing rugby! Emma loves being a part of our incredible school and its mission.

Hannah Knott  Nature Teacher, Class 2, “Coyote Classroom”

Bri Talbot Nature Teacher, Class 2, “Coyote Classroom”

Bri is excited to combine her passion for early childhood education with her love for the outdoors! Holding an Associate’s Degree in Social/Behavior Sciences near her hometown in Palmdale, California, she has returned to Orange Coast College to further her studies in Early Childhood Education.

Before joining the ENC, Bri excelled as the Lead Teacher in another local program, realizing her lifelong dream of working with children. Growing up, she spent every summer on camping adventures across California with her family, fostering a deep appreciation for the great outdoors. Bri aspires to explore all National Parks one day.

Beyond her professional and academic pursuits, Bri finds joy in painting, reading, geocaching, swimming, and collecting seashells. She cherishes moments with her family and their four dogs, creating a fulfilling blend of outdoor exploration and creative hobbies.

Jeanine Raymond Nature Teacher, Class 2 “Coyote Classroom”

Jeanine earned her B.S. in Child Development from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo in 2018, and has over 10 years in the early childhood education field. Her role as a lead teacher in a parent participation co-op preschool merged her passions for nurturing young children’s growth with supporting caregivers. This experience inspired her to pursue her M.Ed. in Parent & Family Education from the University of Minnesota, which she completed in 2023. 

Jeanine advocates for experiential learning, emphasizing the benefits of hands-on play and developmentally appropriate risk-taking in children’s development. As Alfie Kohn aptly puts it, “The way kids learn to make good decisions is by making decisions, not by following directions.”

As a Bay Area native, she grew up enjoying the Santa Cruz mountains, and is still working on convincing her Orange County husband of the joys in camping. In her free time, Jeanine enjoys going to concerts, spending time with her cat, Stout, and taste testing local food trucks.

Kelsey Defeo Nature Teacher, Class 3 “Bear Classroom”

Kelsey has a deep passion for Early Childhood Education, as well as the outdoors, nature, and all living beings. She graduated from California State University of Fullerton with a B.S. in Child and Adolescent Studies and is currently working towards Master’s in Education in Curriculum and Instruction from University of San Diego.

In her free time, she can be found spending time with her boyfriend and cats, adventuring outdoors, going to sporting events, hiking, going to the beach or pool, trying out new restaurants, and doing puzzles.

Amanda Willson Nature Teacher, Class 3 “Bear Classroom”

Amanda has loved every minute of her 6 years of teaching! She attended Orange Coast College and received an Associates in Science degree in Early Childhood Education. She has a Child Development Teacher Certificate and Permit, and her added experience helps her feel confident in guiding and teaching young children. Amanda is heavily art influenced in multiple medias, specifically in ceramics which she loves bringing into the classroom. She has a love for animals, enjoys being in nature, and is excited to share its beauty and importance with children.

“We don’t stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing.” -George Bernard Shaw

Sara Hannon Nature Teacher, Class 3 “Bear Classroom”

Sara is a California native with a love for the outdoors and education. She completed her Associate Degree in Behavioral Science at Saddleback College and a Bachelor Degree in Child Development at California State University Fullerton. Since hearing about nature education as an undergrad, she dreamed of working in a nature preschool one day. She is new to a classroom setting but no stranger to working with preschoolers and kindergarteners. In her free time, Sara loves spending time with family, antiquing, or finding a new trail to explore.

Kate Williams Nature Teacher, Class 3 “Bear Classroom”

Kate, a Costa Mesa native, finds joy in the simple and meaningful moments that connect her to her family, community, and the natural world. As a mother of three and the owner of a lively pug, her home is filled with laughter, curiosity, and creativity. She loves spending time with her husband and children outdoors, exploring through camping, hiking, and photography. Her family shares a passion for hands-on discovery, whether it’s conducting science experiments, learning about the environment, or simply getting messy and having fun. When indoors, they create memories through games, movies, dancing, and crafting.

Kate earned her degree in Child Development from Orange Coast College, along with several certifications in early childhood education. Teaching in the early years is not just her profession but her calling, deeply rooted in her belief that childhood is a magical and transformative time. She credits her studies with shaping her perspective, helping her grow as a mother, a friend, and an educator.

As a teacher, Kate is dedicated to nurturing the whole child by fostering empathy, inclusion, and respect. She values the uniqueness of every child and celebrates their authentic selves, creating a positive environment where they feel secure and valued. For Kate, teaching is about more than academics—it’s about building relationships that guide and inspire children through the wonders of growth and discovery. Her work reflects her unwavering belief in the importance of joy, connection, and encouragement in the early years.

Kaylee Hoff Nature Teacher, Class 3 “Bear Classroom”

Kaylee is an Orange County native and currently lives in Huntington Beach with her husband and their dog. She has worked with children in some capacity for the last 15 years. She coached youth sports during high school and after high school she coached high school basketball for 2 years. She then went on to work with people with disabilities and enjoyed that for several years. Kaylee now is finishing her BA in Early Childhood Education at National University and will graduate May 2022. Over the last two years Kaylee has worked with children who are on the autism spectrum and has experience in ABA. She has a passion for working with our newest members of society and enjoys being outdoors. She believes hands-on experiences are the best way for children to learn. She also believes nature is the best learning environment for young children and is excited to be part of the ENC community. Kelsey compares her teaching strategy to that of a gardener. Seeds will be planted, and we must create the best environment for each individual child to grow. In her spare time, you can find Kaylee camping, cooking, gardening or at a concert. She is excited to be at the ENC Nature Preschool in the Bear Classroom, supporting each child on their education journey.

Araceli Martinez “Guest Nature Teacher”

Araceli graduated from California State University, Long Beach with a BA degree in Child Development and Family Studies. She has over 20 years experience educating young children. Araceli enjoys being part of children’s growth and development. Her hobbies include hiking, scrapbooking, traveling and all things Disney.

Lacée De Grasse  “Guest Nature Teacher”

Lacée De Grasse is a preschool teacher by day and a writer and artist by night. With a playful ease and deep love for empowering children, she enjoys making creatively rich environments where children are free to be themselves.

She received her Bachelor’s Degree in Family and Consumer Science from California State University of Long Beach and is working towards her Lead Teacher Certification through the Early Childhood Development Program at Orange Coast Community College.

In her free time, Lacée enjoys writing poetry, painting, thrifting, and spending time with the people she loves. She finds endless inspiration through the natural world and believes children, like a garden, must be tended to with love and watered daily with encouragement in order to fully blossom.