Teachers & Staff
The staff of the Woods Hole Day Care Cooperative, at 24 School Street, is comprised of highly qualified individuals: a Director, Preschool Teachers, Toddler Teachers and Teacher Assistants. During summer months the school is located at 68 Main St. in Falmouth. This is in the First Congregation Church on the Village Green. Staff members are added according to the regulations during this time. All staff members meet licensing requirements and often take courses and workshops throughout the year to continually update their teaching skills. Our staff members, through their warmth, care, and dedication, strive to provide a nurturing environment for the children that is both fun and educational.
Tonya Sarkinen
Director/ Lead Teacher
BS in Early Childhood Studies, EEC certified Director II , EEC Lead Teacher certified Infant, Toddler, and Preschool.
Tonya joined the Co-op this past December 2024. She has teaching experience in early childhood education across public, private, and charter schools, along with successfully owning and operating her own school here on Cape for 13 years. Throughout her career, Tonya has built lifelong relationships with the families and staff she has worked with. She is passionate about creating a safe, meaningful, and joyful environment.
FAVORITE CHILDREN’S BOOK: There are so many, if I had to pick just one - ‘Paperbag Princess’ by Robert Munsch or 'Guess How Much I Love You' by Sam McBratney
FAVORITE UNIT TO TEACH: ‘Space’ and ‘Fairy Tales’
Kim Fiske
Toddler Teacher
BA in Health Education and Psychology, EEC certified Infant/ Toddler Teacher and Preschool Lead Teacher.
Ms. Kim joined the Coop in 2017 after 15 years of running a home daycare while raising her two children. At our school, she wears two hats, also serving as our Assistant Director. Kim is known for her unwavering dedication, consistent care with the children, and deep knowledge, making her an invaluable member of our team.
FAVORITE CHILDREN’S BOOK: 'The Hat' by Jan Brett and 'Bear Snores' on by Karma Wilson
FAVORITE UNIT TO TEACH: Winter!
Shaylee Dutra
Toddler Teacher
EEC certified Infant/ Toddler Teacher and Preschool Lead Teacher.
Ms. Shaylee joined us in the winter of 2016, bringing with her years of experience working with toddlers and preschoolers through nannying and her time at a local children’s museum. Over the years, she has taught in both of our classrooms. Her fun, consistent, and calm demeanor is the perfect match for our little learners!
FAVORITE CHILDREN’S BOOK: ‘The Lorax' or 'Horton Hears a Who' by Dr. Seuss
FAVORITE UNIT TO TEACH: Primary and secondary colors.
Elizabeth Kirk
Lead Preschool Teacher
BA in Political Science, enrolled in MA program for Elementary Education, EEC certified Preschool Lead Teacher.
Ms. Lizzie joined our full-time teaching team in the Fall of 2024! She has been with our program for a very long time in various capacities and we were all thrilled to have her step into the role of Lead Preschool Teacher. Lizzie began in the Minnow room six years ago, has subbed with us throughout the years, and is currently working on completing her Master's in Education. Lizzie is passionate about teaching the wonders of the natural world and fostering a strong sense of community.
FAVORITE CHILDREN’S BOOK: Favorite books: ‘Swashby and the Sea’ by Beth Ferry
FAVORITE UNIT TO TEACH: Trees!
Becky Kirk
Preschool Teacher
MA in Early Childhood Education, Montessori-trained, EEC certified Infant/ Toddler Teacher and Preschool Lead Teacher
A mother-daughter duo! Ms. Becky has been with the Coop since 2011. She brings a deep understanding of early childhood development along with an intentional, holistic, and exciting curriculum to our preschool classroom! Her commitment to providing children with an engaging space, primed with opportunities for learning and exploration, guides her practice in the classroom every, single day.
FAVORITE CHILDREN’S BOOK: ‘One Morning in Maine' by Robert McCloskey
FAVORITE UNIT TO TEACH: Space and the Earth, our Home.
Basia Au-Blusztajn
Preschool Teacher
MA in Psychology, EEC certified Infant/ Toddler Teacher and Preschool Lead Teacher.
Ms. Basia has been with WHDCC for an incredible 32 years! She joined our school in 1993 and has been a cornerstone of our program ever since. Her vast experience, warm & playful temperament, and unwavering dedication to children make her a true rockstar in our community. She is beloved by kids, families, and coworkers alike!
FAVORITE CHILDREN’S BOOK: All books by Eric Carle.
FAVORITE UNIT TO TEACH: Bears!