About Us
Our Teachers
Stacy Zimmerman Ferrell
Our Executive Director and co-founder, Stacy Zimmerman Ferrell, brings more than 20 years of Early Childhood Education experience to Explorers. Stacy holds a Masters Degree in Child Development from Tuft University and an AMS Montessori Credential with an Early Childhood Reading Certificate. Her years in the field have taught her patience, compassion, and the importance of authentic exploration.
Katy Howell
Katy Howell is Deputy Director, co-founder, and one of the Lead Teachers at Explorers. A teacher for over 15 years, Katy specialized in Outdoor Education before changing focus to Early Childhood Education for the past 9 years. Katy graduated from Western Washington University with her Bachelors in Environmental Education and loves getting outside with students to uncover the myriad discoveries our earth has to offer.
Anna Newman
Anna Newman is a senior at Fort Lewis College, majoring in sociology and minoring in psychology and forensic studies. She is a kind and attentive teacher, with a knack for quickly connecting with all students, gaining trust and building a strong rapport. Anna is currently working as our Afternoon Supervisor, guiding our students through creative afternoon explorations.
Ahna Yar
Ahna Yar is a Durango native, mother to three young children and the President of the Board. In August Ahna will stepping down from her role as President to join our teaching team in the Infant classroom. Ahna has a Family Studies and Human Development bachelor's degree, an AMS Montessori Credential, and has taught in several Montessori schools. Ahna's heart is for Explorers to become an integral part of the community where children develop a lifelong love for learning.
