About Us

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  I have been working in the field of Early Childhood Education for twenty two years. I have taught preschool and art in both the greater Seattle area and on the West Coast. I currently have an Associates Degree, and am working toward a Bachelors degree in art therapy. I am also a member of The North American Reggio Emilia Allianceiear My true passion lies in teaching, and I am constantly inspired by the curiosity, authenticity and creativity of children. I believe that teachers are collaborators who partner with children to help guide and facilitate their learning. As a child, I enjoyed swimming, making art and writing and preforming plays with my sisters. Now, I enjoy reading, photography, documentaries and painting.

 I will be teaching in the 3's, 4's and afternoon classes

I have a Bachelor's and Master's degree in Environmental Studies.  I worked for several years as a paraprofessional in an inclusive preschool, and taught environmental education in Australia and New York to preschool through college age students.  For 11 years I worked as an ornithologist, mostly in the San Francisco Bay, and enjoy sharing that knowledge with children. I love helping kids discover the natural world through science, art, literature, and play.

As a child, I loved exploring the forests (preferably by horseback)  where I grew up in Vermont and Massachusetts.  Now I spend my free time birding, gardening, nature journaling, camping, and hiking with my family. 

I will be teaching in the 3's

My background includes a BA in Psychology and Masters in Teaching in Elementary Education. I taught in the Highline School District in the primary grades for four years before becoming a parent. I’m thrilled to be working at the farmhouse school. The philosophy of the school is the most authentic learning I can imagine for preschool. I love observing preschool age children explore their world curiously and creatively, form friendships, and grow socially and emotionally. As a child I loved riding bikes with neighbors and playing imaginatively. I enjoy reading, hiking, playing with my kids, and enjoying the beauty of the Northwest.  

 I will be teaching in the afternoon 

Hi! I’m Rachel Gottschalk, and I’m so excited to be joining the Farmhouse family as a teacher! I’m a proud Farmhouse parent—my son Harris just graduated from the 5s last year—and I completely fell in love with the magic of this school. The warm community, amazing curriculum, and lasting friendships made it feel like home. So when the opportunity to teach came up, I couldn’t say yes fast enough!

I’m a mom of three: Mia (almost 17), Audrey (almost 15), and Harris (who’s heading off to kindergarten at 5 years old). I’m originally from Spokane and graduated from Washington State University—Go Cougs! I studied communications and apparel merchandising and textiles.

Even as a little girl, I was always setting up “school” for my dolls—teaching them how to draw, fold laundry, and play house. That early spark turned into a lifelong love for creativity, crafting, party planning (for both kiddos and grownups!), and organizing fun activities.

I can’t wait to bring that joy and energy into the classroom and get to know all the amazing kids and families at Farmhouse! Let’s have a fantastic year together!

I will be teaching in the 4’s

My background lies in clothing design for the outdoor industry, but it is through my experience in raising my two children, coupled with my involvement at their schools, that my passion for working with children was realized.  I feel that it is a true joy to witness and support a child as they explore and grow into themselves. It’s important to me to create a connection that fosters each child’s organic learning, and to honor a pace that feels comfortable and exciting for them. I believe that’s where growth becomes authentic and fun!  I have been involved with The Farmhouse School for the five years that my children collectively spent here, through subbing and helping with the garden program.  I’m thrilled to continue being a part of this community as a teacher!

As a child I was an avid soccer player, reader, and crafter.  Now, I love to spend my time gardening, sewing, reading, and enjoying the PNW outdoors with my family.

My background in early education includes an Associates degree in Early Childhood Education and am currently working toward my Bachelors degree in Elementary Education. I have spent most of my formative years in a preschool setting, as I grew up watching my mother and aunt teach and often accompanied them in the classroom. 

 I love getting to know a each child as an individual, observing their play and exploration, and creating strong bonds that help them feel safe. I value creating a space where children can explore their own interests, guide their learning, take appropriate risks and feel supported by their community. 

 As a child, I enjoyed singing, imaginative play,  and spending time with my grandparents! Now I enjoy spending time with my dog, hiking, painting, and going to the Oregon Coast with my family!

I will be teaching the 3's and 4's classes 

I fell in love with the Spanish language while taking classes in high school. I received my undergraduate degree in Spanish Education from Purdue University and have enjoyed a career in teaching the language since graduating in 2007.

For 7 years, I taught at the high school level in Wilmington, North Carolina. Upon moving to Washington, I first taught preschool classes at Evergreen Academy, and then spent 3 years at the middle school level at Open Window School on Cougar Mountain. After welcoming my first daughter in 2016, I began tutoring in the language and relished in being the primary caregiver for her and her sister. Both my daughters attended Farmhouse School. They thrived in the learning environment offered. I hope to offer a similar environment and consideration to the student’s interests with a focus on language acquisition.

Spanish Classes are offered to our 4 and 5 year olds on Tuesdays.