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Learning Center Teachers

Name: Phoebe Fortunate
Early Learning Center
Since: February 2010

Hi, my name is Phoebe and I am happy to be part of the Pass It On Learning Center team. I am a life-long Missoulian; I graduated from Loyola Sacred Heart High School in 2004 and The University of Montana in 2009 with BAs in Forensic Anthropology and Human Biology. I have also worked for many years in Aquatics, mainly as a lifeguard and swim instructor. This is where I discovered a love for working with children. When not working I can be found outdoors or training for marathons and triathlons with my family. I love being part of the Pass It On Learning Center crew and spending my days exploring the world with my young friends!

Name: Gaelan Sylvester
Early Learning Center
Since: June 2011

Hi! My name is Gaelan and I recently graduated from the University of Vermont in Burlington, Vermont where I received my B.A. in Sociology, Psychology, and Human Development and Family Studies. Having originated from a small farm town in western Massachusetts, I grew up with a strong love of animals and the outdoors. Along with my love of all things relating to nature, I have a great passion for spending time with children and watching them develop each and every day. My transition into the next chapter of my life has brought me here to the beautiful city of Missoula where I hope to accomplish some of my life-long personal and occupational goals. When I am not working, you can find me exploring all that this amazing state has to offer with my dog or out on the street training for the marathon that I hope to one day run. I am extremely excited to join the Pass It On team and I cannot wait to learn and grow alongside these inspirational young people.

Name: Beverly Steinbrenner
Early Learning Center
Since: July 2011

My name is Beverly Steinbrenner, and I have lived in Western Montana all my life. My experience with children began years ago while raising my two boys. While being an active parent in various social circles, I decided to make education my career. As I studied I worked as an early learning tutor in a private school. I acquired a BA from the University of Montana in Secondary Education/English in 2000 and accepted a position teaching high school and junior high. I wore many hats at this job and had a wide experience of responsibilities including yearbook, art, English, on-line school, assistant track coach, and sports publications. After teaching art with a provisional license for three years, I completed my K-12 Art Education degree in 2010.

I love children of all ages, and I look forward to joining the team at the Pass It On Learning Centers. As I prepare my entry into a master’s program, I am excited to share my gifts with children that have so much enthusiasm and curiosity.

Name: Misty Williamson
Early Learning Center
Since: January 2012

Hi, my name is Misty and I have lived in or near Missoula my whole life. I love this area, and though I like to travel and explore, I don't think I could ever leave.  I enjoy spending time with family, taking my son to the park and getting outside as much as possible! My experience with children started with the birth of my sister when I was 12 years old. I have had a passion for caring for young children ever since! I also have a young son of my own who has taught me more than I thought possible! I have provided child care in my home on and off since February 2010 for children 6 weeks and older. As my son grew older I was looking for a social and educational outlet that being at home could not provide, which led me to Pass It On Learning Center Preschool. where Jacob is enrolled, and we couldn’t be happier.  I am employed at the Pass It On Missoula clothing store Tuesdays and Thursdays, and am excited to also be a part of the Early Learning Center teaching team!

Name: Matthew Pierce
Learning Center Preschool
Since: November, 2009

Hello, my name is Matthew Pierce and I am very excited to be part of the Pass It On Learning Center! Born and raised in Southern California, I am thrilled (if not a little cold) to call Missoula my home. I come from a long line of teachers, in fact my passion for education began when I was only thirteen and had the opportunity to help my mother in her kindergarten classroom.

My hobbies and interests include all things musical-- guitar, piano, singing and drumming with any pencil, coke bottle or tin can I can find; art; theater; film; literature; dancing; cooking; and spending time outside. My goal in the classroom is to bring as much music, art, culture, and fun into the lives of my students and myself. I have a strong belief that art imitates life and that what a child imitates, he or she begins to understand. I look forward to meeting you all, parents and little ones a like!

Name: Lisa Shenk

Name: Mike Benvenga
Learning Center Preschool
Since: July 2011

My name is Mike, I’m a native to Montana originally growing up in Livingston. I’m currently in my second year attending The University of Montana on a elementary education degree. I am from a big loving family and have always found that helping and working with children has been my true passion. Sports, games, and anything outdoors are my favorite activities, I love to go hiking in the summer. I will bring my energy, fun, and creativity to the children of the Pass It On Learning Center!

Name: Jenny Douglass
Learning Centers Substitute
Since: September 2010

My name is Jenny, and I moved to Missoula from New Orleans, where I completed my B.S. in geology and creative writing. I enjoy hiking and looking at rocks, which I’ve found many more of in Montana than Louisiana. Having grown up in Massachusetts, I am also excited to return to a place where there are four distinct seasons. I love beets, crafts, and going to the dog park with my dog. I hope to someday have a farm that can be used to inspire self-sufficiency in children and grown-ups, and that on the porch, I have a beet colored rocking chair.

Name: Yancey Manhan
Learning Centers Substitute
Since: February 2010

Hello my name is Yancey. I am a father of 4 and happy to be a substitute provider!