Dear Families, thank you for exploring our website and considering Apple Tree University (ATU) for your family. As the owner and director of ATU, I bring with me a wealth of experience and education in the field of Child Development. I hold a Ph.D. and Master’s degree from the University of California, Santa Barbara, in Education with an emphasis in Child and Adolescent Development. My academic journey began with a B.A. in Child Development from California State University, Northridge.

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In my professional journey, I have had the privilege of serving as the Preschool Director at Woodland Hills Private School, overseeing 225 children and managing a dedicated team of 25 staff members. Additionally, I served as the Preschool Director at Little Explorers Preschool where I led a team in caring for 120 children ranging from infants to pre-K. My journey in early childhood education began as a Preschool Teacher at Trinity Lutheran Preschool in 2005 where I taught three and four year olds for nine years. Prior to working in preschool, I had the rewarding experience of owning and operating a Family Childcare in my home.

 

While I enjoy learning about all things Early Childhood, my graduate research and interests focused on preschool curriculum development, science curriculum, nutrition and physical activity in early childhood and kindergarten readiness. I also love educating others about developmental science and have been teaching in the department of Child and Adolescent Development at Cal State Northridge since 2014. 

 

I absolutely love teaching university undergrads knowing that I am inspiring them to give their best to the families they work with. However, I’ve always dreamed of being able to operate my own preschool so I could implement all that I’ve learned to benefit children and their parents. I am truly passionate about early childhood care and education, and I am dedicated to maintaining a warm, nurturing, and enriching environment for the children entrusted in my care. 

 

​Warmly,

Dr. September