Available to hire
Hello! I’m Natalia Kristine Swenson Parker, an educator and program leader focused on building vibrant, research-based learning communities. Based in Ellensburg, WA, I collaborate with families, teachers, and local organizations to design and sustain student-centered programs for PK-5 that foster curiosity, resilience, and growth.
In addition to leading Discovery Lab of Ellensburg, I bring experience as an adjunct professor, entrepreneur, and service-minded advocate. I design curricula, manage teams, and drive fundraising and partnerships to expand access to high-quality education and creative learning opportunities.
Experience Level
Intermediate
Intermediate
Language
English
Fluent
Work Experience
Adjunct Professor at Central Washington University
September 1, 2017 - May 1, 2019Designed and taught Early Childhood Education Classes for a Teacher Preparation Program. Created teaching materials and taught courses including Birth to 3 Development; Early Childhood Classroom Materials and Manipulatives; and Assessment. Consistently supported strong student learning outcomes and received excellent student reviews. Built alliances with local Early Childhood programs and implemented Service Learning components with student partnerships.
Resident Assistant at Gonzaga University
January 1, 2016 - January 1, 2016Facilitated the growth of a strong and safe community in a women's dormitory. Provided conflict resolution and peer counseling and referrals. Enforced university policy by encouraging students to take responsibility for their actions. Programmed hall activities.
Founder, Director, Teacher at Discovery Lab of Ellensburg
June 1, 2011 - PresentCollaborate with parents and stakeholders to build a vision and plan for a community educational program that utilizes research-based educational practices and serves a diverse array of students. Hire and manage program teachers; provide weekly supervision, training opportunities and classroom support. Design and implement Project-Based Learning and Foundational curriculums for students in grades PK-5. Provide ongoing instruction and assessment to students in a multi-age classroom. Market the program through social media and the website; communicate with local public school teachers and administration to help our students work within both programs successfully. Research, purchase, and implement curricula across multiple educational technology platforms. Oversee daily administrative needs and plan fundraising to sustain operations. Build and manage the program budget with oversight from the Board of Directors.
Owner (Marketing, Accounting, Creative Development) at Iron Horse Brewery
February 1, 2007 - May 1, 2013Developed and implemented marketing plans for a growing brewery. Planned community-based events and charitable initiatives. Completed daily accounting tasks using QuickBooks. Assisted in hiring and managing retail employees. Collaborated with a team to build a creative vision for the company.
Yoga Instructor at The Ridge and Yoga Motion
September 1, 2005 - January 1, 2007Planned and taught yoga classes designed to facilitate healthy physical and emotional development for infants and toddlers.
Yoga Instructor at Expansions Yoga
September 1, 2005 - January 1, 2007Planned and taught yoga classes designed to facilitate healthy physical and emotional development for infants and toddlers.
Owner/Operator at Perks Coffee
February 1, 2002 - September 1, 2003Developed and maintained budgets; managed finances. Organized cause marketing events. Managed employees and designed and implemented training. Provided high quality customer service. Grew sales by 50% during the first year.
Home Visitor at Clackamas Educational Service District (Head Start Pre-Kindergarten)
August 1, 2001 - June 1, 2002Designed and provided home visits for at-risk families in a Head Start Program. Collaborated with parents and community preschools to promote positive growth and provide interventions for children. Empowered parents to access and navigate resources to continue developing their parenting skills.
Research Assistant at Gonzaga University
August 1, 2000 - May 1, 2001Authored and co-authored manuscripts using an existing data set. Developed a coding scale and trained coders. Collaborated with professors and other students to develop presentations. Presented posters at the Western Psychological Association and the Society for Research in Child Development conferences. Transcribed interviews.
Nanny at Mark and Jamey Kern
May 1, 1998 - May 1, 2000Provided primary care for two young children. Provided developmentally appropriate activities and educational opportunities.
Education
Certificate in Infant Mental Health at University of Washington
January 11, 2030 - May 1, 2005B.A. in Psychology at Gonzaga University
January 11, 2030 - May 1, 2002Qualifications
Certificate in Infant Mental Health
January 11, 2030 - May 1, 2005Industry Experience
Education, Non-Profit Organization, Professional Services, Media & Entertainment, Other
Experience Level
Intermediate
Intermediate
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