As Director at Parker Core Knowledge Preschool and Junior Kindergarten, I bring over 25 years of experience and a passion for fostering early childhood education. I’m committed to creating a nurturing, stimulating environment where children thrive.

As a parent of five, ages 9 to 23, I understand the importance of a safe and supportive space. My degree in Early Childhood Education has equipped me to design a comprehensive curriculum that promotes growth, curiosity, and academic success. With 24 years of marriage, my family’s support fuels my dedication to helping children build a strong foundation for their future.

As the Director of the Preschool and Junior Kindergarten, I am dedicated to providing an exceptional early childhood education experience for every child who walks through our doors. I am committed to fostering a love for learning, nurturing curiosity, and instilling a strong foundation for future academic success.

Hello, my name is Abbey! I am a native to Colorado. I have lived in Franktown since I was 4 years old and spent all my primary school years in Douglas County.  I was inspired by many of my former teachers to continue my learning in the field of education. In addition to my degree, I hold a Level 6 in the Professional Development Information System in the early childhood field. I spent the last 10 years working with young children at various childcare centers and public schools. 

Outside of work, I love spending time outdoors and planning for my upcoming wedding. I am also delighted in taking care of  all my animals (goats, chickens, rabbits, dogs, cats).  I enjoy my weekends spending quality time with my family and adventuring around Colorado.  I spend most of my time in the world of arts and crafts. 

This is my third year working at Parker Core Knowledge and I am excited to work with new parents, children and staff of PCK!

My name is Mrs. Diefenbach,  I  have an Associate Degree in American Sign Language as well as Early Childhood Education from Pierce College.  I have been a teacher for over 30 years and have worked with numerous ages infants up to adolescents.  I have a passion for early learning education, especially guiding young minds through insightful  experiences and watching children thrive and grow.

I have been married for 30 years and I have 3 adult children, and two grandsons.  In my free time I love to spend time with my family,  go camping,  and interact with my pets.  I have worked at Parker Core Knowledge for two years and love every minute of it.

My name is Grace Mikkelsen and I am the Assistant Preschool Teacher in Room 104. I graduated from the University of Wisconsin - River Falls with my degree in Communication Studies in May 2022. 

I am originally from southern Minnesota and moved to Parker in February 2024 with my boyfriend. We have been enjoying our time here and exploring many new places. In my free time I enjoy going for walks/hikes, watching movies, going to concerts, spending time with family and friends, and much more. 

My name Abigail Merlette and I am the Lead Teacher in Room 105 for Junior Kindergarten.  I am a native to Colorado and have lived in Parker my entire life.  I graduated from the University of Northern Colorado with a degree in English. 

In my free time I enjoy watercolor painting, and going on walks with my puppy, Milo. 

This will be my third year working at Parker Core Knowledge.  Teaching these wonderful kids is an incredibly rewarding experience, and I feel so lucky to get to play a role in the beginning of their educational journey. I am so happy to be a part of such an amazing school and community! 

This is my sixth year as a Preschool/Pre-kindergarten teacher. I  have an associates degree in Early Childhood Education.  I also have a CNA license.  

I cannot wait to watch your kiddos grow socially and academically throughout their time with me, and most importantly have fun!

A little about myself, I am a Colorado native  and enjoy a quiet country life with my wonderful husband, dog and two cats. You can often find me outdoors fishing, binge watching tv shows, or scrapbooking! 

This is my second year at PCK and I am excited to be a Lead Teacher in Room 106 this year!  I have over 15 years of experience in Early Childhood Education from infants to preschool.

I am originally from Minnesota, but I moved to Colorado in 2008 where I met my husband.  In the past 7 years his job has moved us to Spokane, WA, Andover, MN and back to Colorado!  I have two children of my own ages 11 and 8 that also attend PCK.  Our family enjoys being outdoors, camping, fishing, hiking and traveling!

Hello, my name is Teja. I’ve lived my entire life in Parker, Colorado. I hold an associate’s degree in Criminal Justice with a minor in Psychology, and I’m currently continuing my education at Metropolitan State University, where I’m working towards my degree with a second minor in Sociology and Bachelors in Criminal Justice.

I’ve spent over five years working with children, and I’m incredibly excited to bring that experience to my role here. 

Outside of work, I’m a huge sports fan, especially when it comes to basketball and football. From September to February, you can find me dedicating my Sundays entirely to football. I also love spending time with my friends, family, my boyfriend, and my dogs.

My name is Juljana and I have been dedicated to teaching Pre-K since 2018! I’m so excited to start my third year at PCK and cannot wait to meet you all the new children! 

As a Colorado native, I am deeply rooted in the community and passionate about Early Childhood Education. My teaching philosophy revolves around creating a nurturing environment where children can thrive and develop a love for learning. 

Outside of the classroom, I share my home with my fiancée, two cats, and a lively puppy! I love camping, hiking, baking, and preparing for my upcoming wedding in May 2025! 

My name is Renee and this will be my second year teaching at PCK! 

I was born and raised in Colorado but attended Georgia State University where I received my Bachelor’s of Science in Respiratory Therapy. After working as a respiratory therapist for 4 years, I decided to pursue my true passion, which is working with and teaching children. 

This job has been so fun and so incredibly fulfilling. I genuinely love what I do and I am so excited for this upcoming school year. In my free time I enjoy reading books, watching Disney movies, and hanging out with my husband and our 2 dogs, Tofu and Gizmo.

Hello, my name is Heather and I am so excited to start my first year as a full time teacher here at PCK! I have been working in the preschool for the past two school years and love it. I have three children in the main school and have been a part of this community for the last 6 years. I love working with kids and am happy to take on this full time role. 

I was born and raised in Utah but have been in Colorado since 2008.  In my free time I am usually hiking or on some sort of an adventure with my kids and husband. I love spending time hanging out with my dogs and doing yoga. The Denver Nuggets are a big part of my life and I love cheering them on.  I am excited to get to know you and  your child this year.