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Our Staff
Elsa MacLeod Kindergarten has a dynamic team of early childhood educators who collaborate in planning, implementing and evaluating quality programs.
Meet The Team
Jodi Parker
Director
Jodi has been a dedicated member of Elsa Macleod Kindergarten since 2007, bringing over two decades of experience in Early Childhood Education. Holding a Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care, she leads a dynamic team of educators committed to delivering high-quality, play-based learning programs.​
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Jodi plays a pivotal role in the kindergarten's daily operations, ensuring the smooth delivery of programs that foster children's growth and development. Her leadership is instrumental in maintaining the centre's consistent levels of excellence.
Andrea Brewer
3- & 4-Year-Old Assistant
Andrea joined the Elsa team in May 2022 bringing with her 30+ years of experience in Early Childhood Education. Andrea assists in planning and delivering a vibrant play-based educational program in both the four-year-old and three-year-old kindergarten programs.
Sandy Bowden
Early Childhood Teacher
Sandy holds a Bachelor of Education in Early Childhood and brings over 20 years of experience working with young children. She has taught in a range of settings across Australia, including remote and regional communities, and recently returned to Portland to continue her teaching career. Sandy is passionate about creating nurturing, play-based environments that support each child’s sense of curiosity, belonging, and wellbeing. She values strong relationships with children, families, and colleagues, and is committed to fostering inclusive and engaging learning experiences that allow children to thrive.​
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Milly
3- & 4-Year-Old Assistant
We welcomed Milly to the team mid 2026.
​Milly is currently completing her Cert III in early Childhood Education and Care.
​Milly herself attended Elsa MacLeod Kindergarten as a student, we are extremely excited to have Milly at EMK
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Marjoné Zeeman
Teacher - Educational Leader
Marjoné holds a Bachelor of Education in Early Childhood Development (0-9) from the University of South Africa and a Master of Education from the University of Melbourne. She has been teaching pre-school aged children for over 20 years and currently runs the four-year-old and three-year-old kindergarten programs.
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As Educational Leader Marjoné mentors and guides the team of pre-service teachers, educators, and trainees to ensure the best outcomes for our children.
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Emma Budde
3- & 4-Year-Old Assistant
Emma holds a Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care and has 7 years of experience in Early Childhood Education. She is part of the team delivering the play-based educational program in both the 4-year-old and 3-year-old kinder programs.
Bernadette Brabender
3- & 4-Year-Old Assistant
Bernadette joined Elsa MacLeod Kindergarten in 2026 as part of her passion for early childhood education.
She is currently undertaking studying towards her Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care.
Bernadette is enthusiastic about supporting children's learning through play and is enjoying building strong connections with the children and families in our community.​
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Natasha Moore
Business Manager
Natasha has been part of the EMK family since 2017. Overseeing the vital behind-the-scenes operations that keep the service running smoothly. With a strong background in accounting and financial management.
Committee
Elsa MacLeod Kindergarten Inc. is a not-for-profit kindergarten, that is run by a Committee of Management made up of parents and community members.
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Members of the Committee of Management voluntarily elect to be part of their child’s education and actively participate in the running of the center. Staff are an important resource and asset for the Committee in the effective management of the center, however, they cannot have a position on the committee, nor can they vote on any decision.
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The Committee is the legally constituted body that are responsible for the management of the center. It has to be financially responsible and maintain the viability of the center. It is elected at the Annual General Meeting and members fill their positions for a 12-month term of office. Meetings are generally held monthly, run for approximately 45 minutes and all parents are welcome to attend.
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Our Committee consists of office bearers, namely President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, Fundraising Coordinator as well as General Committee members. From the General Committee, we form sub-committees for projects, such as fundraising, garden maintenance and administrative reviews.