Our Mission

At Treehill Dayschool, our mission is to provide a nurturing, inclusive, and enriching environment where every child feels safe, valued, and inspired to learn. We are dedicated to supporting the whole child through meaningful play, purposeful learning, and positive relationships that foster confidence, independence, creativity, and a lifelong love of learning.

Our Philosophy

We believe childhood is a foundation to be thoughtfully nurtured. We provide a warm, engaging environment where children are encouraged to explore, create, build meaningful relationships, and develop confidence at their own pace.

Every child is unique, capable, and deserving of the opportunity to thrive. Through strong partnerships with families and a passionate team of educators, we strive to create a foundation of learning, belonging, and growth that prepares children for success both in the classroom and beyond.

Meet the Team

  • Michelle Downing

    Owner

    Hi, my name is Michelle. I started my day care journey right out of high school running afterschool care programs. I have worked with all ages at a nearby day care center where my love for working with children continued to grow. I completed my master’s degree in special education and elementary education in 2009 from Portland State University. I began my work here at Treehill in 2011 as an assistant director. I was given an amazing opportunity to buy Treehill and take over as owner in 2016. I am forever grateful for this opportunity. Not only do I love working with all the amazing kids and their families that come through our doors, I cherish the relationships I build with my staff just as much! Watching my teachers grow brings me as much joy as watching the kiddos grow!

    When I am not at work, I am usually off camping in the dunes driving my side by side with my family and friends or camping and hiking up on Mt. Hood. I love all things outdoors! I have three amazing step kids who are adults now, an 11-year-old, 4-year-old and a pretty amazing husband too. We have two cats and one Great Dane. Our house is always busy! 

  • Shay Dahlin

    Assistant Director

    Hi! My name is Shay, and I’m an Assistant Director here at Treehill. When you walk through our doors, you’ll usually be greeted by me with a smile! I’ve been working in childcare since 2011 and have proudly called Treehill home since 2019.

    I truly love working with children and supporting their social and emotional growth, especially here at Treehill. This center has become a second home for me and my family, and it means so much to be part of a place that cares so deeply about kids and their development.

    I’m also a mom, and in my free time I enjoy being with my family, journaling, coloring, and spending time out in nature.

    I’m so excited to meet new families and welcome you to join us as your children grow, learn, and thrive in a safe, healthy, and loving environment!


  • Bree Kemery

    Assistant Director

    Hi! My name is Bree, and I’m proud to be one of the Assistant Directors at Treehill Dayschool. I have been working in early childhood education since 2018 and began my journey at Treehill in November 2020 as the Lead After-School Teacher. After several years of growing within our Treehill community, I was honored to step into my role as Assistant Director in 2025.

    I truly love the opportunity to support our children, families, and staff each day. Building meaningful relationships, creating a positive environment, and helping children feel safe, supported, and encouraged are some of the most rewarding parts of what I do. I am passionate about early childhood education and feel incredibly grateful to be part of each child’s growth and journey.

    Outside of Treehill, I am a proud mom to a beautiful little girl. When I’m not at work, I enjoy reading, watching movies, and making memories with my little one. I look forward to getting to know each of our families and helping make every child’s experience at Treehill a happy, meaningful, and memorable one.

  • Missy Graham

    Head Wobbler Teacher/ Van Driver

    Hi! My name is Missy, and I’m proud to be part of the Treehill Dayschool family. I currently serve as the Head Wobbler Teacher, Van Driver, and a member of our kitchen team. I have been with Treehill since September 2006, and I feel incredibly grateful to have spent so many years growing alongside the children, families, and staff in our community.

    One of the greatest joys of my work is being able to witness and support children through their everyday growth, learning, and development. Being a part of their early years is truly a blessing, and I take great pride in creating a warm, caring, and positive environment where children feel safe and supported.

    Although I may have many titles at Treehill, “Auntie” will always be my favorite. Outside of work, I enjoy making lifelong memories with my nieces and nephews, spending time with friends, and staying active through working out.

    I am passionate about the work I do and feel incredibly fortunate to have found a career that is so meaningful to me. I truly cannot imagine doing anything else!

  • Susana Cordova

    Head Preschool Teacher

    Hi! My name is Susana, and I am proud to serve as the Head Preschool Teacher at Treehill Dayschool. With 20 years of experience working in childcare, including 13 wonderful years at Treehill, I have had the privilege of dedicating my career to supporting and nurturing young children during some of their most important years of growth and development.

    I am truly passionate about early childhood education and take great pride in creating a welcoming, engaging, and nurturing environment where children feel safe, supported, and excited to learn. I have loved every minute of my journey in childcare and feel incredibly grateful for the opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of the children and families I serve.

  • Hannah McGinn

    Head Pre-k Teacher

    Hello ! My name is Hannah, I am the pre-k teacher here at Treehill.

    I began working with children at a young age through babysitting, which sparked my passion for early childhood learning. I have always known that I wanted to teach. I can't imagine myself anywhere else. 

    I am a proud auntie of 5 and a chosen auntie to many. When I'm not working I enjoy hiking,camping and anything outdoors. I love to draw and capture the beauty of the world through photography. There is nothing more special than being apart of a child's everyday growth, i love every minute of it 


  • Savannah Reed

    Head After school teacher/Pre-k assistant

    Hello! My name is Savannah, but you can call me Sav! I'm the morning co-teacher in Pre-K, and the afternoon teacher in Kinders/First! I've been working and helping kids grow and bloom for over 5 years now! 

    I am the mother of a cat named Malkthew Reginald Reed, or "Meh-Meh", and a godmother of a 5 year old boy whom I love dearly! 

    When I'm not working; I'm playing video games with my friends, reading, drawing, or playing D&D! :)

    Every second I'm here is another second I feel fulfilled and thankful for aiding these kids in becoming their best selves! 

  • Leslie Medel

    After School teacher

    Hi my name is Leslie! I am A after school teacher in the afternoon! I have been working with children since a young age and since becoming a mom I’ve realized my love for teaching and children. 

    I’m a very happy person and enjoy bonding with those around me. I enjoy nature, hiking, spending time with loved ones and coloring. 

    I love my work and cannot imagine doing anything else:)”

  • Kelsey Grahn

    Float Teacher

    Hey! I’m teacher Kelsey or Coach Kels ;) I’ve been working at Treehill for almost two years now. Prior to Treehill I played soccer at SOU and went on to earn my bachelors degree at WWU in Therapeutic Recreation and Outdoor Adventure Leadership. From there I found myself as a raft guide, a ski instructor and later on as an employment specialist/life skills teacher for people with disabilities. I wanted to work at Treehill after enrolling my son in preschool here and I absolutely love it! 

    In my free time you may still find me outdoors rafting or at a park or river with my family. I also enjoy schooling your kids on the soccer field ;D though I’m far less athletic than I once was, and apparently very clumsy now #TheInjuredOne

  • Brooke Raisanen

    Afternoon teacher

    Hello, my name is Brooke! I am the preschool head teacher in the afternoon, but you may also see me up front sometimes!

    I have been working at Treehill since 2024 and have grown fond of every kiddo we have cared for as well as my co-workers who have all become like a second family to me. When I'm not working, I enjoy reading books, rewatching some of my favorite shows and movies or writing my own stories while cuddling my German Shepherd.

    As the baby of my family, I was the one being babysat rather than babysitting. This made me question if this career was for me at first but I can't imagine doing anything else now!



  • Samantha Hayden

    Van Driver

    My name is teacher Sam, you may see me around in classrooms from time to time or in the kitchen. I do morning van runs and afternoon van runs. I’ve been in childcare since 2016 and I’ve been at treehill since 2024. I’m a full time student, I’m also a full time momma. When I’m not at work or school I’m spending as much quality time with my family indoors and outdoors. I love getting to know each child and love to watch them grow from class to class.

  • Kiana Kenworthy

    Aid 2

  • Jillian

    Aid 1

  • Skyler

    Aid 1