Heather Ostebo, Director,
Taft Avenue School

I first knew I wanted to become a teacher when my grandmother took me to work with her. My grandmother was a Social Worker in an elementary school, and I was fortunate enough to have had the opportunity to spend time with her in a kindergarten classroom.

Since that time, I have devoted both my professional career and personal interests to early childhood education and child development. I earned a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education with an endorsement in English as a second language from the University of South Florida. Currently I am working toward a Master’s degree in Early Childhood education. My studies have been based greatly on the works of Reggio-Emilia, Waldorf, and Montessori. Last summer I spent six weeks in Italy studying the integration of arts and education. I enjoy my friends and family, hiking, reading and going on new adventures.

My professional experience in education began six years ago, primarily as a kindergarten teacher. In 2008 I was honored to be named as an “Outstanding New Educator.” In addition to my responsibilities in the classroom, I served as professional development coordinator and served as a mentor to young children.

Teaching has always been my calling. As a child, I worked with my grandmother at summer camps and workshops focused on early childhood learning; as a teen I volunteered in the Pre-K and Kindergarten classrooms. I love watching children bloom, their enthusiasm, creativity and inquisitive natures are simply a few of the many reasons why I love to work with them.

As educators, I believe it is our responsibility to create a safe and caring learning environment enabling each child to reach their highest potential, through self- discovery, while fostering their individual strengths. I believe that by giving each child the love, compassion, and understanding they deserve, each will truly showcase their unique abilities. Rockridge Little School has this type of thinking immersed throughout, showcased through the classrooms, students, teachers and parents. When the opportunity came to be a part of this rich school culture I knew it would a perfect fit.