Amy Magrinat
Director/teacher
My name is Amy Magrinat, and I hold a Masters Degree from UNC-CH in early childhood education, early intervention, and family support. I'm a certified nature-based educator through ERAFANS, a certified Wunderled educator, and have a BA in Psychology from NCSU. Before becoming involved in early childhood education, I spent time working in the music industry and in holistic health.
I love creating a magical experience on the lovely grounds of 1870 Farm! I really enjoy spending time with children and seeing the excitement on their faces when they discover something new or exciting.
When I'm not teaching or furthering my education, I love to garden, see live music, go hiking, travel, and spend quality time with my husband, Tommy, two children, Walker Blue and Aubrey, and my dogs, cats, bearded dragon and backyard chickens.
Andrea Mazade
Asst Director/teacher
My name is Andrea Mazade and I have been a preschool educator for several years now. It’s a pleasure and a privilege to be a part of the Lupine School community --and I'm excited that our home at 1870 Farm has so much to explore and discover!
For the last several years I have also worked with the Building Bridges Initiative, a non-profit specializing in issues related to children’s residential mental health. I have a BA in Psychology from Guilford College. I also have a love of crafts and culinary arts, both of which I enjoy incorporating into some of our projects!
Outside of the classroom I love spending time with my husband Eduardo, our daughter Luisa, and the many fabulous friends we’ve made here since our move from Austin, TX.
Tiffany Palombi
Kindergarten
Teacher
I’m Tiffany Palombi, and I’m so excited to be co-teaching The Lupine School’s kindergarten class!
Originally from Charleston, SC, I hold a Bachelors degree in Elementary Education from the University of South Carolina. I am passionate about child-led, constructivist learning and am overjoyed to have the opportunity to create a learning experience primarily outdoors and in touch with nature.
When I’m not teaching, I can be found hiking with my kids and dog, gardening, curled up with a sci-fi book, playing complicated board games or cooking overflowing meals for friends and family.
Kristen Wood
Preschool teacher
My name is Kristen Wood. I am a recent Master’s graduate from UNC Greensboro with a degree in Sustainability and Environment. I obtained my Bachelor’s in Sustainability Studies along with a minor in Women’s and Gender Studies. The environment is incredibly important to me and I strive to share my knowledge of and passion for nature with others around me.
In my spare time, I am usually found bonding with my two rescue cats Cream Puff and Noodle. You can also find me curled up with a book or participating in various arts and crafts, such as painting or crocheting. My favorite outdoor activities are hiking on trails and visiting state parks.
Alena
Campbell
My name is Alena Campbell and I moved to Chapel Hill in 2020 from my hometown of Asheville. Over the last two decades I’ve had a wonderfully rewarding career working with children through various roles including Pediatric Occupational Therapist, dance instructor and teacher assistant in elementary and preschool settings. When I’m not working (or dancing!) I like to read and write poetry, hike and camp with my family, cook new meals and find as many ways as possible to learn from and be in nature.
My introduction to The Lupine School was as a parent. Watching my daughter flourish at Lupine I fell in love with the community of the school and its commitment to nurturing the next generations to be their authentic selves. At Lupine there are endless opportunities to explore compassion and curiosity in nature and in relationship with one another. I am so excited to be here and grateful to share in these adventures with new friends!