Meet Our Team
Dedicated educators committed to nurturing young minds.
Shayna VanKooten
Owner/Director/Lead Teacher
After more than a decade of experience in education, I opened Little Trails as a home-based preschool in 2022. My teaching philosophy is that learning should be an active (and sometimes messy) endeavor! Children learn best through play and exploration. I strive each day to provide a variety of fun, hands-on activities, such as sensory play, dramatic play, singing and dancing.
I graduated from Fort Hays State University in 2009 with a Bachelors in Science: Health and Human Performance. In 2013, I went on to get a Master’s Degree in Education. This is the best decision I ever made because it allows me to spend each day doing what I love!
Heather Savickas
Assistant Teacher
My journey in teaching began by volunteering in my sons’ classes and as their Cub Scout Den Leader. I became Early Childhood Education Lead Teacher qualified in Colorado while working at Exploring Minds Academy. I was able to further my skills at The Acorn School.
I graduated Cornell University in 1992 with a degree in General Studies. I’ve completed several ECE trainings including EQIT, Pyramid Plus and Touchpoints. I enjoy helping children develop their identities and learn their personal strengths and interests!
Liz Chandler
Assistant Teacher
This is my first role in the teaching field, and I am truly loving the journey. Helping shape these little people each day has been an absolute joy! My goal is to continue learning how young minds work so I can better understand, connect with, and support each child at their level. I love being part of the Little Trails team.
I am married to my sweet husband, Mike, and we have a daughter along with our three fur children. We recently made our first horse purchase: a mini horse named Taffy! When I’m not working at Little Trails, I run my own photography business, capturing meaningful moments for families and individuals. I also enjoy spending time outdoors, traveling to new places, and making memories with my family and friends.
Breana Hagberg
Assistant Teacher
I started as a parent of two students attending Little Trails and was so impressed with the school that I sought a job here! I've worked at Little Trails since 2024 and have loved every moment of growing alongside our preschoolers. Before diving into early childhood education, I spent over a decade in adult training and development in the corporate world. My past experience continues to shape my work here; I help create resources for classroom use and write our monthly newsletter.
I graduated magna cum laude from California State University, San Marcos in 2011. I obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication, with a minor in Spanish. I look for ways to incorporate Spanish into our everyday, so don’t be surprised if you hear our students greeting you in Spanish too!