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Meet the Teachers 

Our teachers have a deep passion for our inclusive,
Reggio Emilia-inspired, nature-based learning environment
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Director/ Preschool Teacher

Amy Magrinat

My name is Amy Magrinat, and I hold a Masters Degree from UNC-CH in early childhood education, early intervention, and family support.  I'm a certified nature-based educator through ERAFANS, a certified Wunderled educator, and have a BA in Psychology from NCSU. Before becoming involved in early childhood education, I spent time working in the music industry and in holistic health.  

I love creating a magical experience on the farm! I really enjoy spending time with children and seeing the excitement on their faces when they discover something new or exciting.

 When I'm not teaching or furthering my education, I love to garden, see live music, go hiking, travel, and spend quality time with my husband, Tommy, two children, Walker Blue and Aubrey, and my dogs, cats, bearded dragon and backyard chickens.

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Asst. Director/ Preschool Teacher

Andrea Mazade

My name is Andrea Mazade and I have been a preschool educator for ten years. It’s a pleasure and a privilege to say that I have been with Lupine since its founding in 2018. Over the last several years 

I have also worked in an administrative capacity with several entities specializing in issues related to children’s residential mental health.

 

I'm eagerly anticipating the opportunities for learning we will have on our new farm  - there will be so much to explore and discover! I believe deeply in the philosophies of our school and the impact of connecting with children through their eyes, their perspectives, their curiosity and interests, and through honoring their feelings. 

I have a BA in Psychology from Guilford College and a love of crafts and culinary arts, both of which I enjoy incorporating into teaching. 

Outside of the classroom I love spending time with my husband Eduardo, our daughter Luisa, our pup Chili. 

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Preschool Teacher

Taryn Bonner

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My name is Taryn Bonner, and I am thrilled to join the Lupine Community. I graduated from Guilford College with a Music Performance degree in Voice and I am a Licensed Natural Hair Care Specialist. My favorite thing to do with kids is sing and dance. I now spend my days studying psychology, education and pedagogy.

I am an active member of my church where I lead the children’s choir. I can be found occasionally coaching youth Ultimate frisbee. I am dedicated to setting children up for success in achieving overall wellbeing and resilience.

 

In my free time I am finding every opportunity to sing and build community. I love doing small art projects, finding new recipes, exploring new places and playing games with friends.

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Kindergarten Teacher

Tiffany Palombi

I’m Tiffany Palombi, and I’m so excited to be co-teaching The Lupine School’s kindergarten class!

 

Originally from Charleston, SC, I hold a Bachelors degree in Elementary Education from the University of South Carolina.  I am passionate about child-led, constructivist learning and am overjoyed to have the opportunity to create a learning experience primarily outdoors and in touch with nature.

When I’m not teaching, I can be found hiking with my kids and dog, gardening, curled up with a sci-fi book, playing complicated board games or cooking overflowing meals for friends and family. ​

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2nd Grade Teacher

Maxwell Rees

My name is Maxwell Rees. I’m thrilled to take part in this program!

Having grown up in Florida, I studied English Literature and Spanish at Flagler College before spending a couple years working in childcare as I earned my teaching certification. My first teaching job was at a literacy-focused Montessori school in Cocoa, Florida, where I spent a fantastic year teaching creative writing. I soon moved further South and began to teach 8th grade Intensive Reading at a public middle school in Melbourne. The two years I spent teaching 8th grade were immensely valuable and fun, but they also made me nostalgic for the time I spent teaching elementary!

My main goal as an educator is to be a positive presence and foster a bit of curiosity about the world and empathy for others. I also strongly believe that learning should be fun and flexible so that every student can engage with education however they can. 

Outside of work, I love to read, hike, take care of my plants, play guitar and find new things to do. I also love ultimate frisbee, and play pick-up soccer whenever I can!


My main independent academic interest is in linguistics; I’m currently studying Portuguese as well as ASL. Feel free to grill me if given the chance; I’ll take any opportunity to practice! 

I’m so happy to be here, and am looking forward to an amazing year.

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2nd Grade Teacher

TARA LAWSON

My name is Tara Lawson and I’m excited to be joining the Lupine Community! My daughter is in the preschool program and every day is her “best day ever!” The outdoor classroom is like a second home to me and I am excited to be on the farm with your children. 

 

I grew up in New Jersey exploring the Pine Barrens, coastal communities and farmlands. My interest in farm-based education began while I was working for a small environmental and agricultural education center with livestock and vegetable production. I have spent over ten years teaching and developing programs in Reggio-inspired, farm and forest classrooms for preschool and elementary students. I appreciate the genuine enthusiasm and learning that comes when students are inspired by their environment. I enjoy facilitating this process and helping children develop a sense of community with their peers and a love of the natural world. 

 

In my free time I enjoy spending time with my wife, Kimberly, children Oliver and Tessa, and our pets. Our family loves hiking, camping, boating and exploring. I enjoy sports, especially baseball, and I have coached little league. I love to see kids realize their potential! I always root for the home team for college athletics, (Go Heels!), but I am a Philadelphia sports fan at heart! 

Get in touch

Reason for contact
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At Lupine Community School, we do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by law. Our goal is to foster an inclusive, respectful, and supportive community where all students, staff, and visitors can thrive. 

Lupine Community School is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization

919-322-8131

3217 Damascus Church Road, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27516

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