Meet Kerri Rosen
Founder & Teacher
Apple Orchard Preschool
Guided by a love for teaching
Working with young children is truly my calling. In the summer of 1988, I was pursuing a BA in Psychology with plans to become a therapist, when I took a job as a preschool aide—a choice that has reshaped the course of my life. After enrolling in a few Early Childhood Education (ECE) courses, I discovered a passion that was instant and undeniable. I went on to earn a degree in ECE along with my Psychology degree, and by the time I graduated, I knew I wanted to teach.
Since then, I have devoted my career to working with children in many roles: assistant teacher, lead teacher, parent co-op teacher, and garden educator. As the mother of two, I’ve also been deeply involved in my own children’s education as a parent volunteer in their classrooms, from kindergarten through fifth grade. Most recently, I served as a garden teacher, guiding hands-on learning in a community garden in Santa Rosa.
Opening my own preschool has been a lifelong dream. Over the past two years, my husband and I have worked together to create a thoughtfully designed classroom, outdoor play area, and a thriving garden in our apple orchard. I am truly excited to welcome your child to Apple Orchard Preschool!
"I’ve had the privilege of working with Kerri Rosen in both a South Bay preschool and in an outdoor education program in Sonoma County.
She is a thoughtful, passionate educator who creates engaging, well-structured learning environments, integrates quality literature, and encourages creativity through art. Kerri is highly attuned to children’s social and emotional needs, guiding them with empathy and respect.
When we reunited years later to teach garden classes, Kerri once again impressed me—this time through her skill in designing engaging outdoor learning activities. Her students explored the garden through bird watching, nature journaling, art projects, and hands-on experiences planting, harvesting, and preparing fresh vegetables to enjoy together.
She brings professionalism, energy, and imagination to her work, designing meaningful experiences—from classroom learning to outdoor exploration.
I feel fortunate to have worked alongside her twice."
Nancy Johnson
Naturalist, Garden Educator,
Head Start Teacher and Site Director
Testimonials
Impressions of Kerri's Work with Children
"If you are looking for a safe, welcoming preschool for your child, I recommend Kerri Rosen without reservation.
Kerri worked as a parent aide in my parent-participation kindergarten classroom with both of her children. She is dependable and demonstrates patience and warmth to all of the children she works with. She establishes an easy rapport with children and is skilled at creating a nurturing environment for children that encourages growth while supporting their need to feel secure.
She understands child-development principles and can design age-appropriate activities. She is responsive to children’s needs. She is kind and fair. She listens well and responds thoughtfully.
The community is fortunate to have a space for children to learn, explore, and thrive under the loving guidance of Kerri Rosen."
Linda Yamasaki
Retired Kindergarten Teacher
Cupertino Union School District