Team
Many of our teachers are fluent in both Vietnamese and English, and instruction is delivered in both languages to immerse students in Vietnamese culture and hone their bilingualism.
Gloria Hodge
Center Director
I’ve been in the education and early learning field for over 20 years. My experience includes work in South Korea, Southern California, and Washington. I also volunteer for the Renton School District in various capacities. During my free time, I enjoy spending time with family, watching movies, and traveling.
I’m passionate about ensuring a nurturing learning environment for children at the center. I love being able to engage with students in the classroom and see children reach their goals. I look forward to working with Hoa Mai parents and community to build a solid support and foundation for our children.
Chi Bui
Program Administrator
With over a decade of experience in hospitality and as a former business partner in healthcare technology, hardware supply, and logistics sectors, I have developed strong skills in customer service, communication, and organizational leadership within fast-paced, dynamic environments, enabling me to contribute meaningfully to the Hoa Mai and Dragon’s Den community.
Born and raised in Vietnam in a large family with eight siblings, where caring for others was essential, spending time with my nieces and nephews has always brought me great joy. I see the warmth and sense of family at Hoa Mai and Dragon’s Den. I’m dedicated to applying my skills to support the program missions and find great satisfaction in seeing children laugh, learn, and grow each day. It’s rewarding to see the happiness it brings to parents, knowing their children are well cared for. I’m proud to be part of a team that nurtures children and supports families everyday.
Mary Hendrix
Preschool Teacher
I’ve been in the early childhood education field for 28 years. I worked at Zion Preparatory Academy for 23 years and have taught all preschool grade levels from toddlers to pre-K.
I am a mother of six children and grandmother of two. Four of my children are grown and the two youngest are in middle school.
I received my AAS in early childhood education from Shoreline Community College in 2008, and I’m hoping to start on my BA from North Seattle Community College this winter.
Yolanda Allen
Preschool Teacher
Originally from Texas, I relocated to Seattle and have worked in the education field for almost 20 years at Zion Preparatory Academy School. During my career, I have taught kindergarten through second grade and have worked with preschool-aged children.
I have a C.D.A. and am continuing working towards another degree in early childhood education.
I have a son, Robert, who graduated from the University of Washington. He worked in art administration and education here in Seattle.
In my free time, I enjoy reading, watching movies and sports, and spending time with my family.
I look forward to working with Hoa Mai families and the teachers and hope to make a positive impact on our students and their families.
Iz Zah
Toddler Teacher
Xin chao! I was born and raised in Vietnam, and I’m currently a college student at Seattle Central College, where I’m studying education.
I’m actively involved in my community and recently had the opportunity to volunteer as a student teacher at Bailey Gatzert Elementary. I am blessed and excited to be part of Hoa Mai family and hope that my experience can contribute to our mission and values.
Duong
Toddler Teaching Team
My name is Duong, I have been in the U.S. for over two years and lived in Seattle for one year. I am proud to live in a city that is the largest in the state. I am also happy to live in a city with famous companies like Amazon and Boeing, a state known for its evergreen slogan.
Hoa Mai is a preschool I looked for and chose for my son to attend. It is fortunate and coincidental that I am now accepting work and joining the team at Hoa Mai. I am very excited about this job! I look forward to communicating, listening, and helping the children improve their Vietnamese language and learning the culture of Vietnam. Moreover, it is very special to be able to accompany my child in the early stages of life when going to school. I look forward to Hoa Mai’s team to help coach, support and assist me in accomplishing goals that wait for me ahead. Thanks to all.
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