Meet the Board
Hartland-Mackie
Hartland-Mackie
Meet the Administration Team
Khalida’s expertise encompasses digital communication, branding, and project management, supporting learning platforms and community outreach at BEabove Leadership. She holds an MFA in Digital Design from Pratt Institute and a BA from William Smith College. As Director of Admissions, Marketing, and Communication, Khalida is dedicated to welcoming diverse families, sharing the school's mission, and cultivating a strong sense of community.
In the Waldorf philosophy, she recognizes a path that resonates with her own story, stirring the wish that her sensitivity had once been embraced in such a way. At Gaia School, she has found a place where that recognition inspires her daily work, where professional skills meet what moves her most: the silence of nature, the beauty of simplicity, and the tenderness that keeps the world gentle. She loves the sound of the forest and creative expression in all its forms, qualities that nurture her sensitivity and curiosity, and connect her with the world of childhood.
Meet Our Faculty
Fallas Castro
Fernández Díaz
Van den Berghe
She moved to Costa Rica 4 years ago with her partner to begin a new chapter. For the past 3.5 years, she taught a mixed-age group of preschool and early grades at Pacific Waldorf School in Guanacaste. Kim is thrilled to be part of the Gaia community and to share her passion for nurturing young minds through the Waldorf philosophy. She deeply values the beauty and simplicity of Costa Rica’s natural environment, and believes it provides rich, meaningful learning experiences for children. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, gardening, crafts, sound healing, yoga, and embracing the Pura Vida lifestyle.
Kidd
Manon
Berecoechea
Rodriguez
Spindola
Before embracing Waldorf education, Marco taught music, drama, and classical guitar in Mexico, enriching his approach with a strong foundation in the arts. He has also contributed his expertise as an instructor at a Waldorf teacher training institute in Cuernavaca, Mexico. We are thrilled to have Marco at Gaia School and the knowledge and passion he brings to our community!
Forrestell
Anya holds degrees in psychology, sociology, education, and special education, and is fluent in three languages: Spanish, English, and French. Currently, she is embracing the Waldorf methodology under the guidance of our experienced mentor, Alecia Dodge. Anya is passionate about creating engaging and dynamic lessons, fostering thought-provoking discussions, and guiding her students as they explore the world around them. With a deep commitment to her students' growth and success, Anya aims to inspire a lifelong love of learning and curiosity in her classroom at Gaia School.
Nuñez
With more than 12 years of experience in the field of education, Stephanie has worked in various educational centers within and outside her province, which has allowed her to enrich her pedagogical vision and strengthen her commitment to teaching. Her interest in addressing different learning needs led her to obtain a second Master's degree in Psychopedagogy, specializing in consulting and supporting children with learning difficulties.
She currently combines her educational work with her family life. She enjoys spending time with her family, playing sports, and traveling. Passionate about education and the comprehensive development of children, Stephanie feels fully fulfilled as part of the Gaia School educational community.
Zenkova
Diano
Torres
In her free time, Mariel enjoys spending time with her family, going to the beach, horseback riding, and exploring nature. We are excited to have her on the team and greatly appreciate the dedication and positive energy she brings to Gaia School.
Valverde
Florian is thrilled to be part of the Gaia School community and is eager to immerse herself in the Waldorf methodology. She sees this as a wonderful opportunity to continue growing professionally while contributing to a warm, supportive, and engaging environment for the children.
Fernández Segura
With over six years of experience as a private tutor and nanny for various families and guests in local villas and hotels, Solmar has developed a nurturing approach to working with children. Now, as part of the Gaia School community, she is excited to learn more about Waldorf Pedagogy and embrace this new teaching methodology. Her warmth, gentleness, and dedication make her a wonderful addition to our team, and we are thrilled to see her grow in her role.
Fallas
Ramos
Abbas
In 2024, she began her Waldorf training at Padeira Academy, a path that is deepening her understanding of the human being and the role of art in education. This formation aspires to bring a holistic approach to teaching, where head, heart, and hands work in harmony.
She believes that art is not only a skill but a way of connecting with the world, with others, and with ourselves. In every class, she seeks to create a space where children feel inspired, respected, and free to explore their individuality through creative expression.
Jones
Passionate about social causes, she has participated in literacy and education projects in vulnerable communities and with non-governmental organizations. She also has extensive experience working with children as young as 2.5 years old up to teenagers, supporting their learning in Spanish and English through a play-based and engaging methodology.
A year ago, she moved to Cóbano seeking new experiences and a slower-paced lifestyle, surrounded by nature, and fulfilling her dream of living close to the beach. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, exploring new places, practicing sports, sewing, and nurturing her love for reading.
Muñoz Bujedo
She is delighted to be returning to Costa Rica, a country that holds a special place in her heart after seven years living there and where her two children, now 7 and 9, were born. Joining the Gaia school community is both a professional and personal joy, as she looks forward to sharing this new chapter of growth and learning with students and families.
In her free time, Maider enjoys exploring—through traveling, reading, and discovering new cultures—and finding balance in simple joys like cooking, yoga, diving, or walking barefoot on rainy days, moments that keep her connected to nature.
Carter
As a professional Paraguayan harpist, he has recorded over a dozen albums, performed, and toured internationally.
Career Opportunities
Welcome to The Gaia School careers section, where we believe in fostering a supportive and dynamic work environment!
As a school rooted in Waldorf principles and committed to nurturing the potential of every individual, we value educators who are creative and have a profound connection with nature. Join our dedicated team of educators who inspire students to discover the joy of learning and embrace their unique gifts. At The Gaia School, we encourage creativity, critical thinking, and lifelong learning not only in our students but also in our staff. As a member of our faculty, you will have the opportunity to collaborate with like-minded professionals and participate in ongoing professional development programs. We are always on the lookout for exceptional educators and staff members who share our values and vision. If you are interested in becoming part of our vibrant community and would like to inquire about job opportunities or to submit your application, please send your resume and cover letter to hiring@gaiaschoolcr.org.