Our Staff

Hi, I’m Patti McDuffie. I’ve been a member of the Bethlehem staff since 1996 with both of my children having been students prior to that. The loving family atmosphere brings me back year after year with the joy of teaching young children through hands-on learning.

I have a Master Teacher State Permit and am a member of NAEYC. I taught art at Ocean Knoll Elementary School for 11 years and have been the Art-in-the-Garden teacher at Bethlehem. I have been a Girl Scout leader, team and room mom, and an active member of the Encinitas Arts Alive Banner Project.

My hobbies include painting, reading (I belong to 2 book clubs), walking, and cooking. I have been a cake decorator, potter, and freelance artist. I live a very contented life alone in a tiny beach bungalow in Leucadia.

Hi Families, I’m Miss Tara. Welcome to Bethlehem Preschool! Many moons ago, I was a preschooler here at Bethlehem so it’s fun to be back where I first started school!

I grew up in Encinitas and have lived in the area most of my life.  I am a fifth generation of coastal North County and feel lucky to have grown up in such a beautiful place.

I have worked with children since my teens in a wide variety of settings, however I have found that my passion is the preschool/TK age!  One of my favorite parts of teaching this age group are those little “light bulb” moments, I live for those!  And of course, all the giggles and hugs!  I strive to be the best teacher I can be and love learning and exploring the Child Development field. My goal each day is to provide your child with a loving, fun, changing and exciting environment where they can thrive and build on the foundation of future learning.

I live in Encinitas with my husband Cory and furry children Marley and Martini.  Some of the things I enjoy doing in my free time are, traveling, concerts, riding my Ebike, going to the beach and pool, a good Netflix binge, shopping at Target, spending time with my family! I am a fun, happy, loving, positive person and I look forward to getting to know you and your child this year!

XOXO

Hi Families, I’m Gigi and I am so excited to be an official member of the Bethlehem family. I first joined the Bethlehem community when my daughter went to preschool here and I knew then, this is a very special place.

My husband, Mark, daughter, Grace, and I live here in Encinitas, just around the corner and over the hill. Grace is currently at Oak Crest Junior High, heading to San Dieguito Academy next year.

Our immediate family includes two dogs, a leopard gecko, a bunch of fish and a tortoise named Sadie. Mark and I both grew up in Del Mar and our parents are still there. We have a lot of extended family in the area and large family gatherings are one of our favorite events to host. I volunteer at the Rancho Coastal Humane Society when I can, and I always have my eyes open for the next addition to our family. I love to read, play in my garden and crafting of almost every kind.

I previously spent almost thirty years in the corporate world but realize that now I am doing some very important work – supporting the growth of the children in our care. I went back to school and am finalizing my AA in early childhood education so that I can bring as many tools as possible to this year with your kiddos. I look forward to sharing this amazing experience with you.

Hello!

My name is Giselle Delao and I’m so happy to be a part of Bethlehem Preschool!

I am a student at Palomar College, taking classes in Early Childhood Development working to obtain my degree.

My brother, who has special needs, has had a big influence in my choice of study. He has inspired my passion to work with young children and be a positive impact for them as they develop.

I have lived in Encinitas with my mom, dad, and brother for 22 years. I enjoy traveling and spending lots of time with my family and friends.

I also enjoy helping in our community. Whether it’s donating or volunteering, I do it all. My other hobbies include cooking, painting, gardening, photography, and going to Disneyland, which is my favorite place to go.

I look forward to getting to know you!

Hello!

My name is Meredith Toraason. I love being a part of the Bethlehem teaching staff. I was born and raised in the awesome town of Encinitas, California.

I graduated from California State University San Marcos with a Bachelor’s Degree in Liberal Studies and an emphasis in Child Development. I then went on to obtain my teaching credential from CSUSM. I was a full-time substitute teacher in the Encinitas Union School District.

My husband Matt and I had five beautiful boys: Nolan, Wyatt, Quinn, Jonas, and Theo. My oldest son first attended Bethlehem in 2009. I immediately felt a connection to the school and the unique sense of community that exists among the parents and staff. I feel so fortunate to have had 4 of my boys attend this awesome school and my 5^th will when he’s old enough.

When I’m not in the classroom, my family and I love escaping to Mexico for the weekends to surf and eat fish tacos. I also enjoy taking barre classes at Studio Barre. Reading, crafting, and cooking are passions of mine too!

Looking forward to a great year!

Hello Bethlehem families! 

My name is Victoria Godinez, I am known here as Ms. Vicky. I grew up in Chula Vista. After high school I began working at an in-home daycare in Cardiff, owned by a family friend and I fell in love with the area, so I relocated here. During this time, I learned that I really loved working with children. I have been working in the child development field for over 15 years and can’t imagine doing anything else. I am so happy to be part of the Bethlehem Preschool community.

I live in Cardiff with my two daughters Malia and Luna. They keep me pretty busy, but I am currently taking classes at Mira Costa College and working on my child development degree.

In our free time we enjoy going to the park, beach, and being outdoors. When I have a few minutes to myself, I enjoy reading and doing crafts and art. I am excited to meet you all. This is going to be a great year!