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.
Thuy Nguyen
Program Administrator
I was born and raised in Vietnam and relocated to Seattle in 2016. I previously worked in the environmental health and safety field for 10 years and have both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in this field. Through prior work, I gained experience in community outreach, public relations, and administration. These skills are of great help in my job as an administrator at Hoa Mai.
I have a passion for helping people, especially children, improve their development and health. Hoa Mai is an incredible space for learning that allows me to fulfill that passion.
In my free time, I love traveling, reading books and doing outdoor activities such as biking, hiking, and kayaking.
Mary Hendrix
Preschool Teacher Lead
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 Assistant
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.
Izzah
Toddler & Preschool 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.
Zaynab Bao
Preschool Teacher Assistant
I was born and raised in a small village in central-south Vietnam where I graduated from high school.
I studied college for one year as a geography teacher for middle school, then my family moved to the USA. I’ve been living in Seattle for 5 years and I have been studying early childhood and families at South Central College. I received a state initial certificate in 2018.
My goal is to continue to study and complete my degree in the future. I have been enjoying my time at Hoa Mai and look forward to continuing to work with our incredible students.
Yenny Ma
Preschool Teacher Assistant
I was born and raised in Canton, China and came to the United Stated with my family in 1997. I got my AAST in the accounting field at Renton Technical College in 2007. I can speak Chinese and English.
When my son was in preschool, I was a volunteer at my son’s preschool room and discovered that I love to work with children. I received my Child Care Basic Training in 2004. I have been working as a preschool teacher at Associated Recreation Council for almost 8 years. I enjoy teaching and playing with children.
In my free time, I like to bike, hike, and camp with my family and friends. Also, I like to bake and gardening.
Still have questions?
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