Doll Room
Doll Room
Meet Our Staff
Theresa Embry
Director
I was born and raised in Santa Barbara. For the past 12 years I have worked with The Outdoor Classroom Project in Santa Barbara County and nationwide, delivering workshops and training to increase the quality, quantity and benefits of outdoor learning experiences for young children. I have taught at Antioch University as adjunct faculty in the Nature-based Early Childhood Education Program. I've held teacher and lead teacher positions as well as the Preschool Coordinator at the University of California Santa Barbara Early Care and Education Program. Additionally, I've worked as a teacher and director for local non-profit and private child care programs. I have presented nature-based workshops for professional organizations such as CAEYC, NAEYC and Nature Explore. I earned my Bachelor and Graduate degrees at Cal State Northridge. I enjoy gardening, long walks on the beach with my husband and our two dogs, Sadie Sue and Bella Boo. Playing with my four grandchildren is the best! I love to camp and am looking forward to more camping trips throughout the United States.
Andrea Uzupis
Assistant Director
Hi. My name is Andrea Uzupis and I am the Assistant Director. I started at the Oaks in July 2019 but I have been working as an Early Child Educator since 2006. I had Oliver in July 2021, and he can’t wait to be a future Oakster with some of the younger siblings! I look forward to a wonderful year with you and your children at the Oaks!
Yasmine Gonzalez-Ibarra
Teacher, Afternoon Program
My name is Yasmine, but I also go by Yas. I was born and raised in Santa Barbara. I’m bilingual and currently learning ASL as well. Teaching children has always been a dream of mine ever since I was a little girl. I remember all the wonderful teachers I was blessed to have as I was growing up. I have a Degree in Science, Degree in Art, and a Child Care Teacher Infant/Toddlers Certification. I am currently working on my Bachelors degree and plan to keep furthering my education. I have a passion for teaching and guiding children and I’m blessed to be a teacher at the Oaks.
Catherine "Kitty" Sendra
Teacher, Afternoon Program
Bio coming soon...