About Our Teachers

Heike Burr, owner and teacher ~

I began teaching preschool in 2000 when my son and daughter were littles. Teaching and learning with young children quickly became my passion and I opened the doors to Whittier Heights Preschool Inc. in 2004. My education philosophy is that young children learn best through play mixed with structured instruction. Play, song, reading and art, as well as early literacy, math and science concepts are all important to help foster a lifelong love of learning. Where discipline is concerned, I believe a loving hand is best, using words and understanding. Over the years I’ve watched many children transition from small child to adult, and I’m thrilled that the majority of families who have been with me keep in touch. I am blessed to be doing exactly the work I was meant to do in my life and am grateful to the families who share their beautiful and precious children with me.

Claire Schorn, lead teacher ~

Claire was the beloved nanny ten years for a longtime WHP family and earned her Masters in Early Childhood Education in 2023. She began working at WHP in September of 2023.

Teacher statement: " My role as a teacher is to provide a safe and enriching environment by providing a variety of materials and methods for learning where children have the freedom to play and experience joy as well as work through challenges they may be experiencing. As part of my role as a teacher, I must be a model of the behaviors I am asking to see, such as respect, understanding, and care of others. Additionally, a very important teacher role is to wonder with my students and show that I, too, am learning with them. This will ensure engagement for my students which will foster retention of important information and skills that will build a strong foundation for future learning. "

Audrey Burr, part-time teachers aid ~

Audrey, the daughter of Heike, grew up in the preschool world. After high school she was an au-pair in Germany, then worked at a childcare center during college while earning a degree in wine growing and making. In the last couple of years she's worked at a preschool in Ravenna and as a full-time nanny before landing a job with Salmonberry goods where she can use her food and wine talents. We are delighted that she still has just enough time for the little's.