Director / Staff
Michelle Zoila-Shaffer
Michelle Zoila-Shaffer, our founder, has been a mother for over 20 years. Children have always been, and continue to be her true passion. She believes that with the right environment and care, a child will be happy and thrive.
Michelle founded this program with the belief that young children thrive when structure and imaginative play are thoughtfully balanced. She sees daily routines and clear expectations as essential for creating a sense of safety and security, while free and guided play allow children’s imaginations to flourish and their individuality to shine. Inspired by respected philosophies such as Reggio Emilia, Waldorf, and Montessori, she has drawn on the most meaningful aspects of each. While none fully captured the blend she envisioned, her approach is built with deep respect for these traditions. At the heart of her vision is the creation of a small, nurturing community where children feel supported, valued, and empowered to grow—socially, emotionally, and creatively—through a rich combination of consistent structure, purposeful play, and meaningful connection.
Michelle holds a bachelors degree from Emerson College in Boston, MA., has done some graduate work at UCLA, and In her chosen field of Early Childhood Education, she has completed her undergraduate studies, and is currently pursuing a masters degree. She uses her education and extensive experience with children to bring a high level of professionalism to Ross Cottage Nursery School, as well as a love of learning, lots of fun and joy, and exceptional care to the children who attend.
Mimi Zoila
Mimi Zoila is the lead teacher at RCNS. She has followed in her mother’s footsteps and has earned a bachelors degree in Psychology and an associates degree in Child Development from UC Davis. Mimi is also an artist and uses her love of children and art to add a special quality to the RCNS staff!
Leslie Chapman
Lesley Chapman comes to RCNS and Wilderness Cubs after spending over ten years teaching kindergarten in Bay Area independent schools. She earned a BA from Wesleyan University and an MA in Early Childhood and Elementary Education, as well as a certificate in Nature-Based Early Childhood Education, from Antioch University New England. Lesley is passionate about nature-based education, mindfulness, and social-emotional learning. She lives in Marin County with her partner and two young children.