LEADERSHIP
Our Team
At Waldorf School at Moraine Farm our mission is to help students discover and develop their individual capacities so that they can fully engage in the world and contribute meaningfully to society. We aim to cultivate clarity of thinking, compassion and moral strength, and purposeful action in our students.
Faculty & Staff
Christine Garcia Akers
Daffodil Class Teacher
Leslie Arevalo
Spanish Teacher
Caitlin Auguste
Early Childhood Assistant
Heather Colllis Puro
Handwork Teacher
Molly Dumont
Sunflower Kindergarten Teacher
Laura Freysinger
First, Second and Third Grade Assistant
Evelyne Hebrault
Business Manager
Kelly Hiselman
Caregiver and Child Teacher
Yana Lapaix
Clover Nursery Teacher
Jessica Leathe
Sunflower Kindergarten Assistant
Gretchen MacKilligan
Main Office Manager
Lisa Maynard
Class 5 and 6 Teacher
Rachel McCarthy
Admissions Director
Matthew McCoy
Grade 3 and 4 Teacher
Liz Nugent
Early Childhood Assistant
Ana O’Shaughnessy
Games and Movement Teacher
Hannah Plummer
Dandelion Class Teacher
Kelsie Puttbach
Grade 2 Class Teacher
Anna Scalera
Grade 1 Class Teacher
Leah Schnirman
Toddler Teacher
Stephen Smith
Strings Teacher
Caitlin Auguste
Early Childhood Assistant
Caitlin attended Hawthorne Valley, a Waldorf school in Harlemville, NY, from 1st to 8th grade. Her father, Brian Macdonald, has over 30 years of experience teaching in Waldorf schools, and her mother also worked as a Waldorf Kindergarten teacher. Caitlin herself has a deep appreciation for Waldorf philosophy and education.
Caitlin’s connection to Waldorf education continues with her own children, as both of them attended Waldorf schools as well. Caitlin and her mother collaborated to establish a Waldorf-inspired home daycare program that catered to children from 6 weeks old to school age, operating year-round with a 50-hour week schedule. This daycare program lasted for 12 years, and Caitlin feels fortunate to work in an environment aligned with her beliefs and values.
Outside of her professional life, Caitlin has various hobbies such as gardening, traveling, taking walks on the beach, and spending quality time with her family.
Kelsie Puttbach
Grade 1 Class Teacher
I couldn’t resist Waldorf School at Moraine Farm’s commitment to educating the whole child while embracing the arts and the natural world. I am delighted to be a part of this community of talented educators and grow as a Waldorf class teacher. I am looking forward to moving with my class to second grade this year!
When I am not at school, I enjoy hiking, caring for my plants, reading, running, traveling, and photography. I love going on walks around Moraine Farm to Wenham Lake, the perfect place for a picnic or drawing!”
Hannah Plummer
Dandelion Class Teacher
I began my studies at the University of the Arts, majoring in Sculpture, before transferring to Gordon College, where I earned a Bachelor’s in Fine Arts with a concentration in studio art. Raised in Pennsylvania and Delaware as the youngest of four girls, our mother homeschooled us, and I’m incredibly grateful for the unique opportunities our “untraditional” education provided. My mother fostered in us a lifelong love of learning, reading, and nature – creating a classroom anywhere we went, from our living room to parks, libraries, museums, and more.
I’ve gravitated towards childcare roles since I was a child myself. I have 13+ years of experience working as a mother’s helper, babysitter, camp counselor, and nanny. After graduating, I worked as a nanny for a family with three young girls. I loved crafting daily rhythms that fostered a home environment where art, exploration, imagination, and education were paramount. Through teaching and interacting closely with their teachers at school, I was introduced to the world of early childhood education. This experience unlocked something inside me, and I knew exactly what I wanted to do next.
I sought out a school environment that mirrored my values, and that’s what I found at WSMF when I was hired in February of 2025. Teaching toddlers in the Dandelion classroom is genuinely the most fantastic job. I feel incredibly blessed to spend my days witnessing the magic of toddlerhood, in all its messy, spectacular wonder. WSMF cherishes the magic of childhood, and I’m honored to create a classroom where play and joy are at the center of learning.
Outside of teaching, I’m a practicing land artist, creating ephemeral pieces with natural materials outdoors. I love to create, explore, and learn, and I spend my free time cooking, reading, crafting, and traveling. My favorite place on campus is the meadow, specifically in the summer, with the tall grasses swaying in the breeze.
Jessica Leathe
Sunflower Kindergarten Teacher
I began studying Early Childhood Education at Gordon College in 2016. In 2018 I decided to explore a different career path, and I began working with adults with intellectual disabilities. I fell in love with working with this demographic of people and decided to explore a career in Special Education. I spent some time as an administrator for a group home for adults with intellectual disabilities but began missing working with children. I decided to continue schooling in early childhood education and soon became a Lead Preschool Teacher in Beverly. My goal was to eventually work at a Waldorf School! I am beyond thrilled to be an educator at WSMF and I am looking forward to putting down roots at this school.
During my time away from school, I enjoy traveling, crafting such as knitting and embroidering, skiing, as well as going for hikes! I currently live in Wenham with my husband, my brother, sister-in-law, and their son. I love taking my family and friends to the Fairy Bower on our campus! One of my favorite things to do at the Fairy Bower is to sit under the large pine trees, reflect, and admire the meadows.
Molly Dumont
Sunflower Kindergarten Teacher
I graduated from Gordon College right here on the North Shore where I double majored and double licensed in early childhood education and special education. Ever since my early college days I have been eyeing the Waldorf School at Moraine Farm, but never dreamed I would be able to teach here so soon! I’ve admired Waldorf my whole life, especially since my mother raised and homeschooled my siblings and I in a very Waldorf way. What I love most about WSMF is the amount of time we get to be outside with the children and the play-based, student-lead approach to learning that Waldorf offers. Outside of school I like to explore the outdoors, crochet, and spend time with my family and friends. I am still getting to know the beautiful campus our school has, but so far my favorite place to be is the Maple Grove. What a peaceful place to sit and take in nature’s beauty!
Matthew McCoy
Class 3/4 Teacher
I earned both my Bachelor’s degree in Theatre and my Master’s degree in History and Archives from Keene State College in Keene, New Hampshire. I grew up part of my life on a high school boarding school campus in NH, and the other on a working farm. Because of my love for theatre, and my upbringing, I have a deep appreciation for storytelling, the outdoors, and education.
After spending nine years in the field of education, I began my journey into Waldorf teaching, drawn to its holistic approach and the deep connection it fosters between curriculum and the natural world. Most recently, I taught second grade at the Waldorf School of Lexington, where I immersed myself in the rhythms and rich traditions of Waldorf education. I am still growing in my understanding of this wonderful philosophy and take every opportunity to share in the journey of this education.
I am delighted to be joining the Moraine Farm community as the teacher of the combined 3rd and 4th-grade class. I bring with me a love for the arts, a thoughtful and grounded presence in the classroom, and a strong commitment to helping children grow both academically and personally. I am always ready to share the knowledge I have gathered in my lifetime with the kids, and I encourage them to create their own wealth of life experience.
I am particularly looking forward to the sugaring season. My family made maple syrup when I was growing up, so those early spring days carry a lot of meaning for me, and I’m excited to share in that joy and tradition with the students.
When I’m not in the classroom, I enjoy wandering the Trustees of Reservation properties, exploring local museums, watching Broadway musicals, playing board games, and curling up with my cats and a new book.
Evelyne Hebrault
Business Manager
I studied Special Education in France at the University of Montpellier. I moved to Germany for 2 years and returned to France and worked at The European parliament Daycare center in Strasbourg as a multilingual child care provider.
I took time off work to raise our Daughter and moved to the US in 2002. I became very interested in dual language education and getting back to active life ran a French after school program in Winchester and Cambridge,through a non profit organization. In a few years I transferred my credentials and studied to become school Director.
After years observing children in classrooms I felt the need to look at different Educational Philosophies or models and became interested in outdoor education. I worked opening and running a Waldorf inspired program and had an opportunity to visit Moraine Farm and felt it was such a special place for children.
The past 3 years my new passions have been finances and administration building and extending my skills with a local non profit organization that supports refugees.
I am grateful to be part of the team at Moraine Farm to use all my skills to the Business side of the school.
At home I’m always welcomed by my orange cat Buddy, and on weekends you’ll most likely find me close to the ocean or taking pictures of nature’s wonders.
I still have to explore the campus to find my favorite place!
Leah Schnirman
Assistant Toddler Teacher
I have been working as an early childhood teacher since 2022, and studying early childhood education at the University of Vermont and Community College of Rhode Island since 2021. Education and Mother Nature have been my two biggest passions and when I found WSMF it felt like such a wonderful fit. I am so grateful for my journey and career as a young teacher to continue at such a beautiful community as WSMF.
In my free time I enjoy traveling through and exploring the outdoors, connecting with the natural world around us. When I’m not outside I’m working on my recipes and crafting in the kitchen.
Yana Lapaix
Clover Nursery Teacher
Born and raised in the Black Forest region of Germany, I have always felt a close connection to and appreciation for nature.
In my journey as a mother, I recognized the importance of nature as a resource for young children in today’s fast-paced world.
I studied Early Childhood Education at the University of Hamburg, Germany, and Pedagogy Design at the Aalto University of Helsinki, Finland. My teaching experience includes working with babies and toddlers in a Montessori environment, educating immigrant children in Germany, and teaching psychology to young adults. Throughout my career, I have been reminded of the key role of the early years and the joy of a personal connection with each child. Assisting in the parent and child classes often brought to mind my own Waldorf-inspired elementary school experiences in Germany. In many ways, coming to Moraine Farm feels like home.
I also host a German language-learning podcast, and my passion as an environmental and social justice artist often inspires me in other areas of life.
My favorite place on Moraine Farm are the winding paths in the forest, and the meadow where one can watch the woodpeckers.
Laura Freysinger
Main Office Support, First and Second Grade Afternoon Teacher
Laura received her BFA from Tufts University and The Museum School of Fine Arts and for 30 years has worked in the clothing design and manufacturing industry.
She completed two courses of Foundation Studies in Anthroposophy and studied at Emerson College, England with master Waldorf teachers. Laura was a Co-Chair of the Waldorf Community Association, has served on various committees and has been a handwork assistant for 8 years.
Laura came to Waldorf School at Moraine Farm as a parent in 2002 and has volunteered and/or worked at the school in various positions since 2006. She enjoys yoga, gardening, all sorts of handwork and sailing with her family. Her son is a 2016 graduate from Waldorf School at Moraine Farm.
Gretchen MacKilligan
Main Office Manager
Outside of work I love singing with my family and friends and hanging out with my chickens.
Lisa Maynard
Grade 3 Teacher
Rachel McCarthy
Admissions Director
Ana O’Shaughnessy
Games and Movement Teacher
I graduated with a degree in Psychology from the University of New Hampshire and a minor in Human Development and Family Studies. After graduating, I decided to continue my studies bringing my attention to the anatomy of movement. Ultimately, I became a certified yoga instructor to further my belief in holistic living. It was through teaching yoga, that I discovered my voice as a teacher.
My interest in teaching and my belief in the Waldorf philosophy brought me to WSMF. Growing up, I was homeschooled with a Waldorf approach to learning, and I still strongly believe in the values it instilled.
One thing I love most about WSMF is the community and its dedication to the student body. I love the way we are constantly helping one another for the betterment of the children, I find it inspiring.
Outside of work and on weekends, I enjoy long walks on the beach, running outdoors, cooking new recipes for the people I love, and last, but not least gardening, I am currently selecting what I want to plant this coming spring.
My favorite place on Moraine Farm Campus is the Maple Grove on a breezy afternoon.
Heather Collis Puro
Handwork Teacher
After graduating with a Political Science and English degree from the University of Richmond, I worked nationwide for over ten years as an environmental organizer. This work eventually brought me to Massachusetts, where I met my husband and started a family. Finding the Waldorf School at Moraine Farm for our child’s education allowed us to fulfill our beliefs that children should be educated with respect and idealism to find their place in the world.
I wasn’t looking to become a teacher; however, I had been an avid maker since childhood and soon found myself assistant teaching in Handwork. Several years later, I completed my Waldorf Applied Arts Training and now am a Program Director in the same Spring Valley, NY program.
When I am not at school, I like to travel with my family, and I do handwork in my spare time to keep up with our talented students. My favorite spot on campus is easy to share: The beautiful quad garden that is cared for so lovingly by the Outdoor Life committee with all of its inspiring colors.
Anna Scalera
Grade 5 Teacher
In 2008 I completed my Masters in Education degree and Waldorf Teacher Education Certificate at Antioch University. The following year I accepted a position at Cape Ann Waldorf School (the former name of WSMF) and met some of my current colleagues. Thus began my journey of working as a class teacher. Since 2008, I have carried two groups of students over multiple years of learning in the elementary and middle grades. I also experienced the younger years while working as an early childhood educator at Cairn Hill Nature Preschool in Lynn, MA. I am thrilled to begin a new journey with the first grade class this year!
The value Waldorf education places on the arts was a primary reason for choosing this unique work. The visual arts were a large part of my undergraduate coursework and in recent years I have been able to bridge this interest professionally by teaching drawing and painting to Waldorf teachers-in-training in Antioch University’s summer program in Wilton, NH and as part of the Building Bridges program offered by the Center for Anthroposophy.
I love working at WSMF because my position allows me to work with students over multiple years and to share my passions with them. Together we are in the fortunate position of being able to learn on an extraordinary campus and with a wide array of enlivening educational tools and traditions. One of my favorite places to visit on Moraine Farm is the shoreline along Wenham Lake. In my time away from school I enjoy cooking, running, gardening, and various crafts. I reside in Marblehead with my husband and our two sons.
Board of Trustees
The Board’s is primarily accountable for defining the school’s strategic direction and managing its fiscal health. In addition, the Board partners closely with the School Director, providing guidance and oversight so that goals and priorities are implemented. The Board is responsible for all legal concerns of the school and works to ensure the school is in a strong and sustainable position to achieve its mission.
Nursery Classes
In Nursery, through a play-based curriculum, Waldorf lays the foundation of skills that are needed to succeed later on in academic studies. Through daily rhythms of free play, outdoor time, circle time, story time, visual arts, handwork and practical activities, children exercise their creative muscles, develop their fine motor skills and create a strong foundation for their emerging literacy skills.
We offer mixed-age Nursery classes for children age 2 years, 9 months old to 4½ years old, with options for 3-, and 5-days per week. These classrooms are vibrant communities of young learners who accomplish so much each day. Classes begin at 8:10 am and end at 1 pm, with aftercare available until 3:00 pm or 5:30 pm.
Please click here to learn more about our daily rhythm.
Marlene Dickinson
Marlene enthusiastically joined the board in the spring of 2023, she has been involved with Waldorf Education since 1997 and is delighted to have this opportunity to serve the Waldorf Community in a meaningful and impactful way.
Marlene is the founding Director of “Tot Spot,” an infant toddler and preschool still serving the Landmark School in Beverly Farms. In addition, she is the former President of Sandy Bay Preschool in Rockport and former Director of Religious Education at the Unitarian Church in Rockport. She is a professional in the health and wellness field with over 30 years experience in holistic health, teaching and business development.
Marlene is passionate about Waldorf Education and excited to bring her experience as an alumni parent, kindergarten through 8th grade; as well as, her experience as an educator and coach to the board. She holds degrees and certifications in Psychology, Wellness Coaching, Food as Medicine and Reiki. Marlene continues her education through the Center of Mind Body Medicine at Kripalu and currently works in her own private practice Sacred Wellness LLC.
Marisa Kobus
Marisa is an ’03 Alum and very excited to share her voice on the board! She studied at Elon University where she nurtured her love of Spanish and culture, earning a dual degree in Spanish and International Studies and also completed the Leadership Fellow program. Marisa is passionate about leadership and project management in business and currently works as the Sr. Manager of an Operations team at a restaurant technology company to help their customers do what they love, and thrive. Marisa loves all things food from baking to the grill, saving a soft spot for cinnamon rolls! Marisa enjoys spending her free time sailing around the North Shore, traveling anywhere, spending time with family and friends and curling up with a thrilling read.
Joanne MacInnis
Rachel McCarthy
Rachel holds a B.A. in communication from the College of St. Benedict and an M.S. in nonprofit management from Johnson & Wales University. She is the Director of Admissions and joined the board in the fall of 2023. She found Waldorf School at Moraine Farm while searching for a school that fosters a spirit of curiosity and growth in its students. Rachel is the parent of a grades student and lives in Lynn with her family, and two dogs. She is grateful for the opportunity to serve Waldorf School at Moraine Farm as a member of the board.
Karl Pulkkinen
Karl and his wife Jane were among the founding parents of the Waldorf School when it was located on Cape Ann. Karl and Jane have had two sons go though the full Waldorf experience. Karl has maintained his love for the school as a class parent, founding Board member, and long time Hawks basketball coach. Professionally, Karl was a founding staff member of the Landmark School and served as a tutor/teacher, coach, administrator, and public school liaison at Landmark for 50 years. Recently having retired, Karl wants to give back to the Waldorf School at Moraine Farm by serving on its Board.
Rebecca Rugo
Rebecca Rugo joined the Board in October 2021 and is currently serving as Chair. Rebecca grew up in suburban New York and attended Green Meadow Waldorf School from nursery through high school. She holds a doctorate in molecular biology from Harvard University and worked as a research fellow at MIT. She and her family became acquainted with Waldorf School at Moraine Farm when her two children were first enrolled, starting with parent-child classes. She began a second career as a Waldorf teacher at WSMF eight years later and received her certificate in Waldorf Teaching from Antioch NE. Rebecca and her family are grateful for the important role this school and its teachers had in her children’s learning.
Timothy Spittle
Samantha Vona
Samantha, a 2006 WSMF grad, is honored to serve as Treasurer on the Board and to give back to the school that helped shape her. After Waldorf, she attended Rockport High and then Babson College, where she further developed her interests in finance and entrepreneurship. Samantha is a Financial Advisor and Certified Divorce Financial Analyst® and a founding member of ETHOS Strategic Partners, Strategic Divorce Planning, and Vesta Divorce. She lives in Maine with her husband and their son, who will attend the Seacoast Waldorf School in Eliot, ME.