Our Team
Dr. Khuyen Camden
Dr. Khuyen Camden, on her journey to becoming a first-time parent, found herself exploring childcare options and saw an opportunity to create something truly special.
Inspired by the belief that early childhood education should nurture the whole child—mind, body, and spirit—she founded Pinecone Childcare to offer a holistic and harmonious approach to learning.
They say it takes a village to raise a child, so Dr. Camden set out to build that village—a vibrant, supportive community where students, teachers, and parents can grow and thrive together.
Founder
Rachael Sherman-Shockley
As a lifelong performer and lover of the arts, Rachael brings a deep passion for music and live theatre into the classroom. Before coming to Pinecone, she taught music integration in the California public school system through the Sacramento Theatre Company, where she created and led her own curriculum focused on helping children thrive through music and dramatic play. Rachael believes that the arts are a powerful way to support young children as they grow, explore, and navigate challenges.
Having traveled extensively throughout her life, Rachael also deeply values cultural exploration and honoring the diverse backgrounds of the children and families she works with. She fosters curiosity and a sense of global citizenship, encouraging children to feel proud of their heritage while embracing the richness of the world around them.
Lead Toddler Teacher
Edie Mahle
Being raised in Fort Worth, Texas by a family of artists and educators, Edie Mahle cultivated a profound love for integrative and inclusive education from a young age. Working as an educator since 2017, Edie has been actively learning how to curate a space for children to explore their creative needs. Graduating from Portland State University with a Bachelor of the Arts in Art History and a Minor in Spanish, Edie’s transdisciplinary education reflects her creative, community-based ambitions and passions. With an interest in cultivating a community through art practices, she has over four years of working in early art education through Fort Worth, Texas and Portland, Oregon’s Young Rembrandt's programs. Edie has also gained experience in art therapy and translation through her work with Portland’s local nonprofit organization EQFoundations, bringing art and creative therapy to kids and teens living in government facilities.
Edie’s goal coming into Pinecone’s Primary classroom as an assistant is not to instruct children, but to encourage their developing interests and entertain their curiosities through the various, inspiring education philosophies highlighted in Pinecone’s program.
Primary Assistant
Elizabeth “Izzi” Stewart
Elizabeth “Izzi” Stewart is honored to be part of the Pinecone community as Lead Primary Guide and Pedagogical Coach. With over 25 years of experience in Montessori education, Izzi is an AMI/AMS-certified guide deeply committed to fostering creativity, inclusion, and mindful, child-centered learning. She is passionate about supporting each child’s unique gifts by creating a warm, prepared environment where independence and confidence can flourish.
Izzi has a special love for hands-on, curiosity-driven learning and delights in teaching Botany, Zoology, Astronomy, Geology, and the Arts. She values strong partnerships with families and believes collaboration between home and school is essential to a child’s growth.
Originally from Southern California, Izzi has called the Pacific Northwest home since 1994. Outside the classroom, she enjoys horseback riding, hiking, gardening, permaculture, woodworking, fiber arts, photography, music, and dance—many of which naturally weave into her work with children. At home, Izzi shares life with her partner Jonathon, co-parents their three children, and welcomes a lively assortment of animals.
Lead Primary Guide & Primary Pedagogical Coach
Jacqueline Aguilar Uluan
Jacqueline Aguilar Uluan graduated from Portland State University with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and went on to volunteer for two years at Randall Children’s Hospital in Portland, Oregon. While there, Jacqueline worked directly with children and their families, offering emotional support, comfort, and care during some of the most challenging moments of their lives. Whether helping to uplift children’s moods through thoughtful engagement or providing a compassionate presence for families navigating difficult circumstances, Jacqueline gained a profound understanding of how to nurture resilience and foster hope. This experience solidified her passion for supporting young children and their families in meaningful ways.
Raised in Beaverton, Oregon, Jacqueline is Guatemalan by heritage, fluent in Spanish, and a proud mother to her daughter, Mia. Her upbringing in a large family and experience working with children at her church in Cedar Hills have shaped her belief in creating a sense of connection and belonging in the classroom.
At Pinecone, Jacqueline is excited to share her love of Spanish to enrich the children’s early learning experiences. Her warmth, dedication, and nurturing approach make her an invaluable part of the Pinecone family.
Toddler Assistant
Vivian Aubrey
Vivian is a lifelong student and educator with over 25 years’ experience in Montessori classrooms and in leading extracurricular programs like creative summer camps, wilderness experiences, and socio-emotional groups for all school ages. In the classroom, she specializes in working with children ages 0-6 to help prepare young people for a lifetime of confident steps and wise choices.
A Certified Professional Coach, Vivian has expanded this work to adult groups and individuals across the States and overseas. She helps them prepare for and integrate new life stages, align values, improve interpersonal connections, and make room for necessary growth.
After so many years working with individuals at the beginning of their lives as well as those in the full maturity of adulthood, she has found it to be true that ‘the more we change, the more we stay the same.’ She approaches all facets of her work with the same respect for and trust in the individual, and deep empathy for our shared human condition.
Program Director
Philippine Kennedy
Coming soon!
Toddler Assistant
Micah Camden
Chef Micah Camden brings his love of cooking and passion for food to Pinecone. As the chef and culinary instructor, he prepares wholesome meals and teaches children the joy of cooking, exploring fresh ingredients, and learning about safety and composting. His goal is to help kids build a lifelong connection to food and healthy eating.
Beyond the kitchen, Micah works closely with his wife, Dr. Khuyen Camden, to design, build, and bring Pinecone’s vision to life. He ensures that the facilities and grounds are well-maintained, creating a safe and welcoming environment where children can learn, play, and thrive.
Head Chef & Operations
Alex Camden
Alex Camden brings his years of restaurant experience to Pinecone, where his warm heart, youthful energy, and love for kids shine every day. Whether he’s leading outdoor adventures, sparking creativity through hands-on activities, or simply ensuring little ones feel safe and supported, Alex is always ready to help kids explore, grow, and thrive. His enthusiasm and caring nature make him a beloved part of the Pinecone family.
Chef & Operations Support