Preschool teachers at the Phelan campus

Julia Murphy has been a teacher in the MACC organization for nine years and has been involved in preschool teaching for more than 20 years. She was raised in the Santa Clara Valley and attended the original Moreland School on Saratoga Avenue where her mother was the first kindergarten teacher in the Moreland district. Mrs. Murphy attended Campbell High School and UC Davis and received her BA in Education from San Jose State University. She holds a State of California Life Credential.

Julia began her teaching career in the public school system at the Jr. High School level, teaching a core program as well as special programs for gifted students. She then took some time off to start her family, which now consists of her husband, four grown children and their spouses and nine wonderful grandchildren. Eight of her grandchildren have attended the MACC Phelan Preschool (the baby is still too young).

When she returned to teaching, Julia chose to teach at the preschool level in a parent participation setting. She especially enjoys working in a developmental program like the one at the MACC Phelan campus. Julia strongly believes that teachers and parents, working together, can ensure the effective and enjoyable preschool experience so critical for child's later success. With a true love of children and regular educational development focused on early learning, the atypical child, and preschool operation, Mrs. Murphy continues to give children a highly positive first school experience and parents an opportunity to regularly participate in their children's learning and growth.

Professionally, Julia is a member of the California Kindergarten Association, and the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). She has also received special training in "Early Intervention for School Success."

When she isn't teaching, or researching new ideas and activities for the classroom, Mrs. Murphy enjoys her large family, friends, and her standard poodle, Dolly. She also collects dolls, Candlewick glass, shells, and children's books. Other interests include bridge, swimming, and reading (especially mysteries).

Jill Ainscow, Co-teacher

Jill Ainscow joined the teaching staff this year at the Phelan Preschool. She started her career with a B.Sc. in Child Development from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. Following college, she spent several years working with infants and toddlers, as well as co-directing a day care center. After taking some time off to start a family and be home with her young children, she returned to teaching as an elementary school tutor with the Moreland School District. For the past six years, Jill has worked with Special Needs students in the district's early intervention preschool. This background, coupled with her varied teaching experiences, makes Jill a valuable and caring resource for both Phelan parents and Phelan students.

Jill has two daughters, now teenagers, both of whom attended the Phelan parent participation preschool and then moved on to the Moreland Discovery School. Now she finds herself happily involved as a participating parent at the high school level. Jill and her family enjoy camping, skiing, and traveling together. She also enjoys ballet, afternoon tea, and working with young children.