Heart in Hand Teachers
Many hands for little hearts
At Heart in Hand, our teachers share a deep reverence for childhood and for the simple rhythms that nourish young children. Through storytelling, imaginative play, meaningful work, and time spent in nature, we strive to create a warm, home-like environment where children feel safe to explore and grow.
Each teacher brings their own experiences, gifts, and love for this work, helping to cultivate a caring community for the children and families of Heart in Hand.
HeyZeus Oak
Owner and Head Teacher
Cultivating wonder through rhythm, story, and meaningful work.
I come from a place where rivers meet and mountains stand in quiet watchfulness. The beauty and stillness of that landscape continue to inspire my work with young children and shape my reverence for the rhythms of the natural world.
I hold a bachelor’s degree in Art Practices and a master’s degree in Educational Leadership and Policy, with a focus on Gender, Race, and Nations & Sustainability Education. I completed Waldorf Early Childhood training through the Sound Circle Center and am a certified mentor through the Center for Anthroposophy, supporting other teachers as they deepen their work in Waldorf early childhood education.
At Heart in Hand Preschool, I strive to create a warm, home-like space where childhood can unfold through seasonal rhythms, storytelling, song, and meaningful work. Outside the classroom, I enjoy making music with my son, exploring nature, and cycling through our vibrant town.
Jordan Staznik
Lead teacher
Supporting children’s growth through nature, movement, and creativity.
My work with children is deeply influenced by my own childhood education, where learning through play, art, and time in nature was an important part of each day. I continue to feel grateful for that experience and the way it shaped my path toward working with young children.
Growing up in the Northeast gave me a love for the changing seasons and time spent outdoors. I especially enjoy sunshine and the simple joy of being outside, noticing the rhythms of nature throughout the year.
In the classroom, I enjoy sharing activities that bring children into meaningful connection with the world around them, including yoga, gardening, crafting, cooking, movement, and caring for plants and animals. I feel deeply aligned with Waldorf philosophy and am grateful to be part of the Heart in Hand community.
Ophelia Aubin
Extended Day Teacher
Creating warmth, imagination, and joyful connection through play.
My teaching centers on wonder, imagination, warmth, and kindness. I strive to create a nurturing environment where children feel safe and joyful, with space to explore the world through play, creativity, and meaningful connection.
Growing up in a warm southern climate surrounded by sunshine, tall trees, and abundant wildlife shaped my love for the natural world. Time spent outdoors continues to inspire the way I approach my work with young children.
I previously worked at Cedarwood Waldorf School as the lead extended day teacher, where I helped create a gentle rhythm for this tender part of the school day. My work in early childhood education began in a cozy in-home preschool in Portland, and I am delighted to return to that home-based setting at Heart in Hand.
“The healthy social life is found, when in the mirror of each human soul, the whole community finds its reflection. And when, in the community, the virtue of each one is living”
— Rudolf Steiner, founder of Waldorf Education