She graduated from Lake Washington Technical College with a degree in Accounting and has more than 15 years of experience as a manager and accountant. She has been working in Sarodgini since 2012. Tamara also is a proud mother of two absolutely amazing children.

Olga is an accomplished educator with a rich background in psychology and pedagogy, providing her with a deep understanding of child development and effective educational practices. Her expertise enables her to recognize and support the diverse needs of young learners, collaborate with parents for optimal outcomes, and foster a thriving educational environment alongside talented teaching staff. With extensive administrative experience, Olga excels at managing daily operations smoothly and creatively solving problems. She is dedicated to building meaningful relationships with staff, children, and parents, ensuring a supportive and cohesive community.

Maria is a graduate of the Moscow School of Culture (specialty: choreographer, organizer, and leader of children’s groups). Graduated from the Moscow University of Culture and Arts.An instructor of folk dances and a teacher in Russian-language schools in the Greater Seattle area with over 20 years of experience.Director and choreographer of the dance ensembles “Ivan-da-Marya” and “Firebird.” For over 5 years, she has successfully worked at Sarodgini School as an educator, teacher, event organizer, and producer. Starting in 2024, she has also taken on the role of Principal Assistant Director at Sarodgini Private Elementary School. Director, producer, and choreographer of the “Classics” Theater Studio at the CLASS Sarodgini School. Maria is a dedicated professional with a rich creative background. She has two children, a French Bulldog, and a strong passion for theater and floristry.Active actress at the “Chameleon” Theater in Seattle, showcasing her love for performing art.Skilled in floristry, combining creativity and precision to craft beautiful floral arrangements. Maria values her big, loving family as her greatest source of inspiration and support.

Victoria was born and raised in St. Peterburg. She graduated from St. Peterburg State Electrotechnical University, named after Lenin. Before moving to America, she worked as a senior manager of the state kindergarten. Victoria is raising a son.

Oksana is a dedicated professional with a Master’s degree in Credit and Finance, extensive experience in management and strategic planning. Her passion for working with children and youth led her to volunteer with a Moscow sports organization, where she collaborated with Olympic champions and youth teams. In August 2023, Oksana joined Sarodgini Academy and School “CLASS”, where she focuses on organizing academic processes, planning events, and creating a supportive learning environment. “Working with children inspires me and motivates me to improve every day,” Oksana shares.

Elina was born and raised in Baku, Azerbaijan. She has a degree in early learning and music. She has spent ten years teaching at an elementary school in Baku. Elina has also raised two beautiful children.

Marina graduated from the Yerevan Medical Institute as a laboratory assistant. She has raised two beautiful children. She came to the USA in 2008 and has been working in Sarodgini since 2009. "I really miss my kids on the weekend! They somehow very quickly became my family, and their new skills, new words, and achievements are a joy for me."

Nina joined the Sarodgini family two years ago. She is a proud mother, Grandmother, and healthcare worker. Nina loves reading books, listening to music, and growing plants. “I came from the land of blue fields, dense forests, and impassable swamps. From early childhood, I learned the beauty and greatness of our surrounding world, which lies in kindness, affection, compassion, understanding, and great love for everything around us. I have been instilling these values into my students every day for over two years."

Yulia graduated from the Pedagogical University and has 15 years of experience working in primary schools. Her hobbies include reading, cooking, listening to music, and crafting. “I am glad to be part of Sarodgini, because here is a truly comfortable and safe environment created for the development, upbringing, and education of children.”

I love children and find joy in spending time with them, watching them grow and master new knowledge and skills. As a mother myself, I understand how quickly children grow and how precious it is to give each child personal attention and care. My background in educational psychology helps me better understand children's needs and support their development. I'm grateful to be part of the Sarodgini family, where I can make a meaningful difference in each child's journey.

My name is Vian Faraj and I’m a lead teacher at Sarodgini Children's Academy. I have been an educator for 24 years teaching kindergarten ages. For my education, I have a diploma in agriculture and a certification in Montessori teaching. I love teaching because I can make an impact on children’s lives and watch them grow and learn, and I’m happy to be a part of Sarodgini Children's Academy. We at Sarodgini work very hard to achieve the best and have high standards and expectations from all students. The school environments are educational, academic, challenging, stimulating, diverse, safe, supportive, inclusive, innovative, and engaging. Your support, kindness, and understanding means the world to me, and I am so grateful having the opportunity to teach at Sarodgini Children's Academy. My hobbies are cooking, traveling, and listening to Music and enjoying life.

Early childhood education is undoubtedly one of the most important professions. It is during the early years that the foundation of a child's personality is shaped, impacting their future development. I graduated with honors from Kyiv Pedagogical College, in the field of Early Childhood Education and Psychology, with a Major of Educator – Methodologist, which helps me connect emotionally with each child I work with. Over the years, I have conducted methodical training sessions for preschool teachers. I believe in the crucial importance of physical activity for child development, as I am personally passionate about sports, seeing them as essential for both growth and well-being.

My name is Ekaterina, and I work as a teacher's assistant. I love children for their sincerity, curiosity, and ability to find joy every day. I enjoy spending time with them playing, sharing new things, and watching them discover the world around them. Before working in early childhood education, I tried different fields, but here I truly feel I’ve found my place. I love being part of the children’s world full of warmth, joy, and genuine emotions.

My name is Anna. I graduated from Vladivostok Medical University and have always been interested in child development and creating a supportive environment for kids. I have a daughter, and I really love children. I enjoy helping them learn, play, and grow every day. I’m happy to work at Sarodgini Academy, as I feel part of a caring and positive place where children feel safe and loved.

Juliia graduated from Khabarovsk State Technical University and the Academy of Public Administration. Juliia has been working at Sarodgini Academy since 2022. She has two children. “I love being part of the Sarodgini family. That work gives me endless energy and creative inspiration, and I want to share the warmth I receive from children."

I graduated from the Ural Federal University in Russia and have a Master's Degree in Linguistics and Lexicology. I speak Russian, English, and French.  Working with children of different ages and backgrounds, I discovered a love for teaching. I found great joy in helping kids learn and grow, and I am happy to continue this rewarding work at Sarodgini Academy.  I am confident that my experience in working with bilingual kids, coupled with my passion for education and working with children, is committed to creating a positive and engaging learning environment where students feel motivated and supported in their academic journey.

I am an experienced and caring teacher who works with children of all ages—from toddlers to school-age students. I began my teaching journey as a volunteer in children's summer camps, helping kids discover their creativity and curiosity. For two years, I taught arts and crafts in summer educational programs and later gained valuable experience working in American playcare and family childcare settings. I currently work as a teacher at Afterschool Sarodgini, teach arts and crafts at CLASS School in Sarodgini, and also serve as a substitute teacher. I genuinely love working with children. I find joy in their curiosity and creativity, and I'm passionate about helping each child grow in confidence and in their love of learning.

My name is Joan Henderson. I have been teaching grades K-6 in a variety of settings for 34 years. I am Washington State Certified to teach K-8 th grade and have an Advanced Montessori Certificate. I graduated from Seattle University in 1991. I love the Montessori method of teaching and in my classroom, you will see a variety of approaches to teaching. I have high expectations for my students and challenge them to meet these expectations by holding them accountable. I have a strong desire for each student to learn and set up my classroom in a way that allows each individual to grow and succeed. I can accomplish this by being dependable, highly organized, flexible, and creative. I successfully build a positive rapport with children and maintain open and honest communication with parents and peers. In my experience, learners are most engaged when their day is filled with inquiry and creativity. I have seen that when students are able to make personal connections to a topic and are given choice in their learning, they progress on their journey toward becoming intrinsically motivated, lifelong learners. I love nature and the quiet solitude it offers. I enjoy reading, cooking and baking, scrapbooking, hiking, and searching for beautiful rocks and beach glass. I spend my summers sailing in the beautiful Pacific Northwest, from the Puget Sound to the San Juan Islands and up into Canada.

"I have been an elementary school teacher for the past four years working in both private and public schools. I have my BA in Social Science/ Education from Ashford University. I am currently pursuing my MA in Education from the University of the Cumberlands in Kentucky. I have a passion for sparking children's creativity through project-based learning. I feel children are able to reach their full potential when their strengths are recognized and learn best through hands-on experiences and through the magic of play."

I was born in Washington and spent a decade in Colorado, where I pursued my passion for teaching. I earned my degree in Elementary Education from Colorado Mesa University, specializing in conceptual math and the science of reading. Now in my eighth year in the classroom, I am dedicated to fostering curiosity, critical thinking, and a love of learning in my students. I currently hold a Washington State Teaching Certificate and have worked in Impact Public School-Public Sound Elementary in Tukwila, WA since 2022. I have also worked as a private tutor and adult learning facilitator since 2017. I live in Kirkland with my family and enjoy exploring the area's beaches, lakes, and mountains. In my free time, I love traveling—especially road trips along the West Coast—reading, and creating art.

Elena graduated from pedagogical courses based on Gymnasium No. 63 for preschoolers. She studied at St. Petersburg State Polytechnic University and then worked at the Wildlife Center of Scranton Zoo, Scranton, PA.

I have been teaching programming for two years in the United Kingdom and am now continuing my journey at Step Computer Academy. With extensive experience as a programmer, I am passionate about helping students develop their coding skills and creativity. I believe that programming is not just about writing code—it’s about problem-solving, logical thinking, and bringing ideas to life. My goal is to make learning programming engaging, accessible, and fun for everyone.

I worked as a Russian language teacher in several schools in the USA. I try to make each lesson interesting for students and find forms and methods that can explain complex material in a simple and accessible way. I also try to add a twist to each lesson and make the kids interested in it.

It is always difficult for me to find the right words to determine how I feel about my young students. I graduated from a magistracy at the university, taught students studying Russian philology, then taught Russian at the university, and then became a teacher for entrants of the Federal University, and now I am here in kindergarten. My whole professional biography is an ascent to children. They teach me and make me grow, and develop, rejoicing in the purity of hearts and pure love.

Anna Kotok graduated with honors from the Faculty of Philology at the Northern International University (Magadan) in 2003, specializing in Russian Language and Literature. During her university studies, she also earned a certification in "Artistic Speech Club Leadership." In 2020, Anna completed additional training as a Speech Therapist at the Federal Institute of Advanced Studies and Professional Retraining (Moscow). Anna has experience as a Russian Language and Literature teacher in a Magadan region school. She has also served as an editor for educational publications at the Northeast State University Publishing House and worked on various editorial projects in a regional publishing house, including proofreading and creating corporate image books. Anna has been actively involved in organizing educational initiatives, such as “Total Dictation” and the All-Russian Geographic Dictation. Additionally, she has experience as a teaching assistant in an American kindergarten.

With a degree in education and 15 years of experience in elementary education, I’m thrilled to be part of the Sarodgini team. Here, we have created a truly nurturing and safe environment for children’s growth, development, and learning. Working with these young minds is a constant joy—they are curious, full of energy, kind, and wise beyond their years. Their boundless optimism and imagination inspire me daily, teaching me the joy of appreciating life’s little moments. Nothing compares to the excitement in their eyes as we explore the world around us together.

Mihail graduated from the Army Institute of World Languages in 1983, specializing as an Interpreter in Chinese Language. With a strong background in the field, he has authored numerous reports and essays on the Chinese language and culture. Currently, Mihail works at the Chinese Information Service in Seattle, where he is passionate about teaching Chinese to children aged 6 and older.

Marina is a magician who effortlessly turns learning into an exciting adventure. She has nurtured generations of children, becoming a true legend in our community. Under her loving care, children feel confident, and parents gladly entrust her with their most precious treasures. The culinary class created especially for Marina has become a true celebration of creativity and flavor. Her dishes are not just meals but little culinary wonders, easy to recreate thanks to her secret ingredients: love and imagination. Children learn to cook with joy and then delight their parents with delicious and surprising dishes made with their own hands.

Maria graduated from the Moscow College of Culture in the class of choreographer-director of children's dance groups and the Moscow Institute of Culture. Since 2008, she worked as a choreographer, founder, and director of the dance ensemble "Ivan-da-Marya". A couple of years ago, she began working on a youth folk dance project of the same name.

Artiom musician who can play almost everything, composer, and sound maker. Artem joined our team in 2021 and became so popular among students. As of now Artem teaches guitar, drums, bass guitar, piano and saxophone, and also Artem creates youth band which performs every year at our school and in multiple locations in Great Seattle. Artem graduated from the School of Art in Kishinev. In 2022 Artem and Sabina created a duet that became very popular around the Russian Speaking community.

Sasha has experience working with children in educational institutions in Ukraine, Canada, and the United States. Since 2014, Sasha has been working at Sarodgini Academy, helping hundreds of children develop their communication and conversational skills.

"It is important to me to give all the warmth of my heart, the maximum support, and acceptance to every child when working with children."

Marina Mamedova began her gymnastics journey at the age of six, performing weekly on a national TV show. At just eleven, she was selected for the National Team of Azerbaijan. By fifteen, she had earned the prestigious title of Master of Sport in the USSR (1977). She became State Champion in Baku, Azerbaijan, and proudly took part in the Opening Ceremony of the 1980 Olympic Games in Moscow. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education and Teaching and has been coaching artistic and aerobic gymnastics since the age of 22. Her career spans both Russia and the United States. Since 2003, Marina has coached in Washington state—first at Emerald City Gymnastics in Redmond, and currently as a Team Coach at Alpha Gymnastics in Woodinville.

Svetlana graduated from Irkutsk State University with a degree in Mathematics (1987). She worked as a mathematics teacher in various educational organizations, such as Mathnasium Education Company, Da Vinci, and Doctor Tutor Education Company, and as a tutor for SAT/SAT-2, calculus, algebra, and geometry at Eastside Education and WyzAnt.

My name is Tetiana Yehorova, and I have dedicated my life to working with children. I was born in the beautiful city of Sevastopol and spent part of my childhood in Cairo, Egypt, where I studied at the British Council. After returning home, I graduated from Sevastopol Humanities University with a degree in English Language and World Literature, and a focus on developmental psychology for preschool and school-aged children. Throughout my journey, I’ve explored many paths—from guiding children’s mountain hiking tours in Crimea to working in real estate, running a small business, and pursuing art. But no matter where life took me, I always felt a deep connection to working with children. That calling led me to become a preschool teacher and nanny, caring for children from infancy through early elementary age. After moving to the U.S., I continued working in daycare and private homes, supporting young children in their early development. I am also a proud mother of a teenage daughter, which has given me even more insight into the beauty and complexity of childhood and parenting. In my free time, I love painting, hiking, rock and electronic music, photography and exploring new places. I’m passionate about creativity in all its forms and enjoy bringing imaginative, hands-on projects into the classroom. I believe that children thrive in an environment where they feel safe, inspired, and respected—and I strive to create that every day. I’m truly happy to be part Sarodgini school and excited to share my experience, energy, and heart with the children and families I work with.

Danil Klimov is a committed Sambo assistant coach with a unique focus on training young learners in self-defense. Originating from Tunda, Danil’s journey in martial arts began with Sambo, later expanding in Blagoveshchensk, where he dedicated 7 years to training in Muay Thai and swimming. Today, he brings his expertise and enthusiasm to children, helping them build self-confidence, discipline, and a love for fitness. Beyond coaching, Danil actively hones his skills and represents Jiu-Jitsu at the Orion Sports Club in Kirkland.

Born and raised in St. Petersburg, Anastasia initially pursued a degree in linguistics and French language instruction. After moving to Seattle, she studied graphic design and began her new career. Anastasia has always had a passion for drawing, and becoming a mother inspired her to share this love with her daughter. Together, they explore art history and the fundamental principles of design through drawing.

Daniel is a chess instructor with 3 years of experience teaching students ages 5-65 y.o. in both group and one-on- one settings, in person and online. Founder of Polonsky Academy since 2023, an online chess school serving over 30 students and employing multiple instructors. Specialized in teaching young children through structured, engaging, and age-appropriate lessons that build focus, patience, and problem-solving skills. Fluent in English and Russian. Experienced working in classroom settings with young children and maintaining a safe, structured learning environment.

She has worked at Sarodgini since 2018. Natasha is the mother of two children. She graduated with honors from the Samara Pedagogical School, specializing in kindergarten teacher, and also the Samara Pedagogical Institute, specializing in Preschool Pedagogy and Psychology. She graduated from the Samara State Academy of Economics. She used to work as a jurist for a short time. Then she realized that music is her vocation. Natasha taught children music, working in Russian kindergartens, organizing music competitions, celebrations, and performances for more than 10 years. She has a truly inexhaustible fantasy. All of our holiday events are her merit. Children enthusiastically look at Natasha, and she gives them a beautiful world of music, dance, and, most importantly, the desire to appreciate music, the desire to feel it.

Nadezhda is a dedicated piano teacher and choir director with over 15 years of experience. A graduate of Yoshkar-Ola Music College, she has worked with adult and children’s choirs in both Russia and the United States. Since 2001, she has been teaching piano and furthered her education as a teaching assistant at Green River Community College from 2010 to 2013. Passionate about community engagement, Nadezhda organized charity music festivals for children from 2010 to 2019 and served as the director of the cultural and sports club "Heritage" at the Spiritual and Educational Center in Bellevue from 2017 to 2019.

Olga is a talented pianist and dedicated teacher with a degree in Piano from Music State University in Baku. In addition to her role as a concertmaster at classic ballet schools, Olga works with children of all ages, introducing them to classical music through a thoughtful, engaging approach. Her teaching method focuses on correct hand positioning—a fundamental skill for budding musicians—and incorporates rhythm exercises and games to develop a solid musical foundation. Many of Olga’s students build on this early training to pursue their own musical careers, a testament to her inspiring mentorship and expertise.

Ballet has been a part of Kaiya’s life since she was a young girl, and it has shaped who she is. It has taught her to be hardworking and driven, and also to work well with a team. When she teaches ballet, Kaiya wants to help inspire young minds, just like she was inspired, to continue with the beautiful art and the virtues that come with it. Education: Emerald Ballet Academy from age 4 to currently. Types of dances: Classical Vaganova Ballet, Character, Contemporary. Study period: from 2012 - currently Work experience: 3 years, with the children’s beginning ballet and substituting for a variety of dance styles and classes. Children's age: from 2 - 9 years. Achievements: YAGP 1st Place Ensemble 2024 Semifinals, YAGP 3rd Place Ensemble 2018 Semifinals, Scholarship to Ballet West Summer Intensive 2023.

Callie has loved ballet since she was little and has always had a passion for it. Performing in nutcrackers, performances, and competitions has always been one of her favorite things. Ballet brings Callie so much joy and her whole life revolves around it. Education: Emerald Ballet Academy since age 11 Types of dances: Classical Vaganova Ballet, Character, Contemporary, and Modern. Study period: from 2017 to 2024. Work experience: 2 years, teaching children's beginning ballet and substituting for different classes. Children's age: from 2 years to 9 years. Achievements: Character ensemble dance “Summer” - 1st place at Seattle YAGP semifinals. Callie has gone to three ballet summer intensives at San Francisco Ballet, Boston Ballet, and Colorado Ballet.

Irina grew up in Bellevue, WA, and has been dancing at LaVida Studio her entire life, beginning from the moment she could walk. She trained in a wide variety of styles, including hip hop, jazz, contemporary, and international ballroom and Latin, and has competed and performed in numerous productions. Irina is also a Sarodgini alumna, having graduated from Sarodgini Preschool herself, while continuing her dance journey at LaVida, makes her return as a teacher especially meaningful. She is currently in her second year coaching the Latin Junior Competition Team at LaVida Studio and teaches a Hip Hop & Acro class at Sarodgini on Fridays for children who are just beginning their dance journey. Irina is passionate about creating a safe, fun, and encouraging environment where children can build confidence, coordination, and a love for movement. She believes dance is a joyful way for every child to express themselves and grow.

Shoya Kai Karate Club, practice WKF (World Karate Federation) Karate – the only Olympic-recognized style of karate. Our mission is to bring world-class karate training and competition opportunities to the Seattle area. Unlike other local clubs, we aim to compete on the national and international stage, including the WKF Karate 1 Premier League and major championships. There is currently no club in Seattle that regularly participates in these top-level competitions – and we are here to change that. Shoya Kai Karate Club goal is to inspire and prepare the next generation of karate athletes, helping young students reach international tournaments and even become part of the USA National Team. At Shoya Kai, you will experience not only professional competition training, but also exclusive seminars and workshops with elite athletes and coaches from the UK, Ukraine, USA, and other countries. About Shoya Kai Karate Club President & Head Coach – Sensei Yaroslav Pitko - Former member of the Ukrainian National Karate Team - Multiple-time medalist at the Ukrainian National Championships - Bronze medalist at the British Championships - Winner of many top-level international tournaments, including: - Central England Championships (UK) - Elite Karate Championship (UK) - Hungary Tatami Cup (Hungary) With his unique international experience and achievements, Sensei Yaroslav is dedicated to building a strong karate community in Seattle and leading students to success at the highest levels.

Anna has built a distinguished career in journalism and public communications, serving for more than a decade as head of a municipal press office. In this role, she managed comprehensive media coverage of city life, organized press conferences, briefings, and interviews, drafted press releases, and oversaw the development of official websites and social media channels. Her achievements in media and communication have been recognized internationally. She has been a frequent participant and award recipient in the prestigious competition “City in the Mirror of the Media,” organized by the International Assembly of Capitals and Major Cities.

I am a Biology graduate from the University of Washington with minors in Neuroscience and Chemistry. Formerly a medical scribe, I'm gearing up for a Masters in Neuroscience this September. Beyond work and academia, my life is filled with moments spent cherishing my French Bulldog, experimenting with new cake recipes, indulging in diverse coffee varieties, and immersing myself in captivating books. For the past two summers, I had the delightful opportunity to impart the wonders of biology to eager young minds at Sarodgini summer camp, and for the past year I worked in different groups as an assistant. Now, I eagerly look forward to bringing my passion for learning to "Academics" classroom.

Hello! I’m originally from Vynohradiv, in western Ukraine. Since I was young, I’ve taken care of my younger sister, who is eight years younger than me, and I always cooked for her. It became a family tradition for us. My grandmother taught me how to cook—she was not just a mentor to me, but like a real mother. She passed down to me not only recipes but also the understanding that food is a way to show love. I’ve worked as a cook in a restaurant and have completed all the necessary training and certifications. Now, cooking for children in the kindergarten, I feel like I’m passing on that same care and warmth—into every dish and every day. I love children for their sincerity and spontaneity. They fill the world around them with bright colors, and I’m happy to be part of their lives. Every day, I will share with you what delicious meals your children had, and please let me know what they liked the most, so I can take that into account and continue bringing them joy. Wishing you all a good appetite!

My name is Vlad, and I’m excited to volunteer at Sarodgini Elementary School, where I enjoy inspiring creativity and learning in students from kindergarten through 5th grade. I hold a Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering, have over 10 years of experience tutoring and teaching college-level mathematics, and bring hands-on expertise in electronic assembly and manufacturing. This blend of skills allows me to share both technical knowledge and creative problem-solving with Sarodgini students. At Sarodgini, I love engaging students through fun, hands-on activities like building cardboard robot models, using a patient and imaginative approach to make STEM exciting and accessible. My experience in designing educational materials helps me create lessons and projects tailored to different age groups. In my free time, I enjoy hiking, playing guitar, and singing songs in Russian. I’m committed to supporting STEM education and imaginative play at Sarodgini, and I look forward to contributing by assisting with activities, guiding crafts, and encouraging a love for discovery in every student.