FOUNDER

Hello, everyone! My name is Rhonda Thompson and I am the owner/founder of Little Roots Preschool. I have seen many children come through my classroom doors in the past 15 years, and it never gets old hearing, “Mrs. Thompson!”, hollered across a room or sports field. My passion is teaching children, and creating a warm environment where my role sets them up for a life time of learning. I think of it as the beginning point to their entire school years to come. It is equally important to me that parents feel good about handing their precious child over, and that they know they are loved and cared for while in my care. I have taught in the community for ten plus years before opening Little Roots Preschool in the fall of 2018. I love Jesus and hope that even if someone is not a believer, they see His light in my heart. I am very proud of Little Roots and what our students leave our doors with, both in character and academically. Although my role in the classroom has changed a bit as our little school has grown, my passion for our students has not!

TEACHER

I’m Mrs. Hyder and am so excited to be in my third year of teaching the 3-4’s class at Little Roots Preschool! I have lived In McMinnville since I was 10, so this little town is very special to me. In 2009 I received my B.A. in Liberal Studies from Oregon State, with my heart set on being in the classroom. When I’m not running my own children to school and activities, I enjoy baking, exploring 3rd Street, and anything Disney.

TEACHER

Early Childhood Education is my passion and my joy! I've spent 15 amazing years teaching preschool and kindergarten. I have a BS in Early Childhood Education from Western Oregon University and additional certifications in social emotional learning and in supporting children experiencing trauma and disabilities. I especially enjoy sharing read alouds, creating classroom community, and helping children investigate topics they care about. I'm always looking to integrate art, music and movement into the school day! I live in McMinnville with my husband, 15-year-old daughter, 14-year-old son and two cats. Together we enjoy overlanding/ exploring and camping throughout remote areas of the Pacific Northwest. I am so grateful to be a part of the Little Roots team!

TEACHER

Hello Little Roots Families! My name is Amber Prusso and I’m so excited to be a part of Team Little Roots! I love working with kiddos and preschool age is my very favorite. I live in Dayton with my husband, 3 kids and our zoo of fun animals! I’m a watercolor artist on the side and LOVE getting lost in a painting, cooking, camping with my family and shopping!

TEACHER AIDE

Hi, all! I’m Sophi, Rhonda’s daughter. I have enjoyed the opportunity to work with these special little humans for the past few years at Little Roots. I do all the things- from working with small groups and setting up snacks, to helping prepare activities, and anything else that might need done. One of my favorite parts is helping our students become confident learners and seeing how much they improve throughout the school year. Some things I love outside of school include fashion, coffee, boating, camping, and my French bulldog, Gracie Jo.

CHEERLEADER

Loves eating, sleeping, going for rides in Dad’s Bronco, and cheering on the kiddos at LRP!