Hannah Barnes, M.A.
Lead Educator, Yampa Classroom (she/her/hers)
My name is Hannah Barnes and I am a lead educator in the Yampa classroom. This will be my first year at Denver Cooperative Preschool, and my second as a full time classroom teacher. Previously, I was a teacher in the infant room at Boulder Journey School, where I studied the Reggio Emilia Approach and obtained my master’s degree in Early Childhood Education. I completed my bachelor’s degree in Communication and Political Science at Bowling Green State University in Ohio in 2018.
I hold a deep reverence for childhood, and believe strongly that humans are innate learners from birth. Through play, children are socially constructing knowledge about and making meaning of their lives and experiences. I treasure my role as a caregiver for young children, and believe that in early childhood, the most potent opportunities for education are relational. I strive to center collaboration and non-coercion in my work with children, and understand my role to be a shepherd, nurturer, observer, supporter, documenter, and protector of your child’s learning and growth throughout this year we have together. I am passionate about partnering with families, and am very much looking forward to working with you all this year as part of our cooperative model.
When I’m not at school, you can find me spending time with my partner, Sean, and our dog, Piper. We have lived in Denver for three years and, having built a wonderful community both personally and professionally, anticipate that this will be our long-term home. My favorite place to be is lying on a picnic blanket at Curtis park, reading a book, playing a game, or chatting with my friends. Some of my hobbies include crafting, traveling, reading, dancing to live music, and studying astrology.