Meet the dedicated professionals at Bitterroot Early Learning Network, where passion and expertise converge to create an enriching environment for early childhood education. Learn more about our staff’s unique backgrounds and roles.
Ariella Wells
Executive Director
As the Executive Director of BELN, Ariella (Ella) is responsible for guiding the organization’s overall vision, strategic direction, and day-to-day operations. She implements policies, manages organizational resources, and oversees all aspects of leadership and administration. Ariella also supervises staff, manages budgets, leads fundraising efforts, and fosters strong relationships with key stakeholders, funders, and community partners to ensure the continued growth and impact of BELN’s work throughout the Bitterroot Valley.
Ella, is a passionate advocate for family and community, deeply inspired by the mentors who shaped her own childhood. With over a decade of experience in Early Childhood Education (ECE), she brings both heart and expertise to her role as Executive Director of the Bitterroot Early Learning Network (BELN).
Ella holds a Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Studies from Colorado State University, with a concentration in Early Childhood Professions and a minor in Spanish. She is also proficient in American Sign Language (ASL), allowing her to foster more inclusive learning environments.
Her leadership at BELN is grounded in a commitment to quality programs, advocacy for children’s rights, and the development of strong, collaborative community networks. Ella believes that a thriving early learning system is the foundation of a healthy community, and she works tirelessly to shape a brighter future for all children in Ravalli County. Her unwavering dedication and systems-level thinking have made her a respected and influential force in the field of early childhood education.
To explore how Ariella can best support your needs, please contact her via email at ella@beln.org, by phone at (406) 209-8246, or arrange a meeting at a time that suits your schedule to explore how she can best assist you.
Ariella spent her childhood skipping across more than 20 homes around the country, but no matter where she landed, the great outdoors was her forever friend. She munched bell peppers off the vine like apples, chased seagulls through the salty ocean breeze, and sculpted sandcastles fit for queens. Her days were filled with canoe adventures searching for manatees and dolphins, mushroom foraging missions, lizard-chasing marathons, and nights lit by the glow of fireflies. She once tried to rescue an armadillo (it didn’t want to be rescued), galloped on horses like a wild thing, and climbed every climbable tree in sight. The world outside was her playground—and her constant in a life always on the move.
Dakari Smilanich
Early Childhood Systems Navigator
Dakari coordinates and manages provider support services, early childhood education (ECE) advocacy, and systems work throughout the community. She leads both the Bitterroot Early Childhood Coalition and the Ravalli Child Care Advantage (RCCA) program, with a strong focus on community engagement, provider support, and family advocacy. Dakari develops and implements community program plans, offers coaching and professional development for early childhood educators, and remains actively involved in local and statewide advocacy efforts to strengthen the early childhood system in the Bitterroot Valley.
For over 20 years, Dakari has been deeply dedicated to early learning, working to support children, families, and the broader community in building strong foundations for lifelong success.Her commitment to this work extends to actively collaborating with multi-disciplinary teams, providing the most effective support services to meet individualized needs and recognizing the importance of diverse perspectives in fostering holistic growth. She has earned her B.A., as well as her MEd in ECSE and Graduate certificate in PBS/ABA. Dakari has served families, educators, childcare staff and other stakeholders throughout central Alaska and the South Puget Sound region in Washington state. Her services as an infant learning teacher, in-home behavior support specialist, Part C eligibility evaluator, academic interventionist, family coach and community advocate provide a solid backdrop for engaging in the important work BELN is committed to providing. Dakari enjoys all things outdoors and encourages others to get outside!
To explore how Dakari can best support your needs, please contact her by email at dakari@beln.org or by phone at (406) 201-9629.
Karen De La Luz Martinez
Communications Coordinator
As the Communications Coordinator at BELN, Karen, provides communication support both internally and externally to ensure consistent BELN language and efficiency. She manages social media, the BELN website, organizes incoming communications, handles stakeholder correspondence, and assists with project management. Karen also teaches Spanish to the children at Evergreen Kids Corner, enriching their learning with engaging and inclusive language experiences.
Karen is a Montana native and was previously an Assistant Teacher and Summer Camp Leader at Evergreen Kids Corner before embarking on her journey to teach English as a second language in Spain. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Montana. Karen is passionate about early childhood education and brings a well-rounded perspective to her work, blending business expertise with a deep commitment to supporting children and families.
To explore how Karen can best support your needs, please contact her by email at karen@beln.org or by phone at (406) 363-1688.
Her favorite childhood memories revolve around spending time in the great outdoors with her brother. Whether it was enjoying summer days with her family at Lake Como, sledding and building snowmen during the winter, or playing outside with neighborhood kids—making mud pies and riding bikes around the block—she found joy and adventure in every season spent outside.
Josephine VanDenburg-Crossman
Program Coordinator
Josephine coordinates and manages the day-to-day operations of BELN’s educational and seasonal programs. She oversees the development and implementation of program plans, supports and manages staff, and ensures that all programs meet high educational standards and respond to the needs of the community. Josephine leads a range of BELN’s offerings, including direct services, family workshops, and one-on-one support for families, helping to create meaningful, accessible, and impactful learning experiences across the Bitterroot Valley.
Josephine (Josie) is a proud Montana native and alum of Evergreen Kids Corner. After graduating from Hamilton High School, she went on to earn dual Bachelor of Arts degrees in Anthropology and International Studies, along with a minor in Modern Dance, from the University of Utah. She later moved to Boise, Idaho, where she served as a Youth Recreation Specialist for the City of Boise’s Parks and Recreation Department. In that role, she was part of a team that managed eight free after school programs at Title I elementary schools and, during the summer, oversaw nine outdoor play camps for elementary-aged children in city parks.
Currently, Josie is pursuing her Master’s degree in Arts, Culture, and Nonprofit Management, with a focus on Outreach and Advocacy. As BELN’s Program Coordinator, she is excited to bring her experience in outdoor and afterschool programming—along with her nonprofit management training—to support BELN’s mission and the families it serves in the Bitterroot Valley.
To explore how Joesphine can best support your needs, please contact her via email at joesphine@beln.org, by phone at (406) 201-9766, or arrange a meeting at a time that suits your schedule to explore how she can best assist you.
One of Josephine’s favorite memories at Evergreen Kids Corner was visiting the EMU Farm—or perhaps the joy and excitement of the Christmas Program. Another cherished outdoor memory comes from when she was about seven years old, during a family trip to Mesa Verde in Colorado. After proudly completing her Junior Ranger Badge, she was given the special honor of leading part of the tour down to the Puebloan Dwellings—a moment that left a lasting impression and sparked her lifelong appreciation for nature and history.
Billie Grady
Preschool Lead Teacher
Billie is the lead teacher at Evergreen Kids Corner, where she facilitates daily activities to create a nurturing, engaging, and educational environment for young children. She leads classroom operations with a focus on curriculum planning, student evaluation, behavior support, and team coordination. Billie is responsible for designing and implementing lesson plans, monitoring student progress, managing daily school routines, and fostering strong, supportive communication with both families and staff.
Billie has been a dedicated member of BELN for over eight years. While pursuing her Bachelor’s degree, she completed her teaching internship with Evergreen Kids Corner, where her passion for early childhood education took root. With over a decade of teaching experience, Billie brings a deep understanding and commitment to nurturing young learners. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Prekindergarten–3rd Grade Education, an Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Development, and a post-baccalaureate certificate in Communication Sciences and Disorders. Billie is currently furthering her expertise by pursuing a Master’s Degree in Speech-Language Pathology. Her strong educational background and years of hands-on experience make her a vital part of BELN’s mission to support children and families in the Bitterroot Valley.
To explore how Billie can best support your needs, please contact her by email at billie@beln.org.
Billie’s favorite childhood memory is exploring the woods with her twin brother. They would spend hours wandering through the trees, discovering hidden trails, and letting their imaginations run wild. Whether climbing trees, building forts, or simply enjoying the peaceful sounds of nature, these adventures created a bond between them and sparked a lifelong love of the outdoors.
Karen Daniels
Preschool Assistant Teacher
Karen is the Assistant Teacher at Evergreen Kids Corner, where she supports the Lead Teacher in creating a nurturing, engaging, and educational environment for preschoolers. She helps implement daily activities, assists with classroom routines, and provides one-on-one support to children as they grow and learn. Karen works closely with the Lead Teacher to carry out lesson plans, encourage positive behavior, and ensure families feel supported in their child’s learning journey.
To explore how Karen can best support your needs, please contact her by email at karend@beln.org.
Karen’s favorite childhood memories are from growing up in a suburb of Philadelphia, where the whole neighborhood of kids would be playing outside from morning until dinnertime. Kids would get together and just do all kinds of activities: hide and seek, double-dutch jump rope, baseball in the street, riding bikes and scooters, digging in the dirt, making “jewelry” out of the pieces of wire the telephone-man would leave on the ground for us, and organizing picnics. Summer evenings were filled with kids running around with jars, catching fireflies. They were lighting up everywhere! Having that freedom to run around and explore developed some of the best memories.
April Anderson
Preschool Health & Nutrition Coordinator
April oversees the planning and preparation of healthy meals and snacks at Evergreen Kids Corner, ensuring they meet dietary guidelines and support children’s well-being. She also leads nutrition education, engages families around food, and champions farm-to-school initiatives like Harvest of the Month. With a background in gardening and culinary arts, April is passionate about fresh, locally sourced ingredients and actively involves children in hands-on food experiences that foster lifelong healthy habits.
After spending 25 years in Oregon, April returned to her home state of Montana with a renewed sense of purpose and passion. She holds an associate degree in education, though her career path initially led her in a different direction. It wasn’t until she helped lead BELN’s Summer Explorers program that she rediscovered her love for early childhood education. The experience reminded her just how much joy and fulfillment working with young children brings—and how their energy and curiosity make every day brighter.
To explore how April can best support your needs, please contact her by email at april@beln.org.
April grew up in a soccer-loving family, often traveling to support her brother’s competitions. One memorable trip took them to Utah, where they visited an amusement and water park called The Lagoon. It was there that April watched her dad bravely ride a giant swing that hoisted him high into the air before releasing him into a dramatic free fall. The park also featured what remains, to this day, her favorite water ride of all time. The trip was a joyful adventure shared with most of her family, and it left such a lasting impression that April hopes to return as an adult and relive the fun.
Cassidy Buchanan
Infant & Toddler Lead Teacher
Cassidy is the Lead Infant and Toddler Teacher at Evergreen Saplings, where she creates a nurturing and engaging environment for young children. She plans and leads daily activities, supports children through routines, and guides their early learning. Cassidy also oversees classroom operations, collaborates with her team, and builds strong, supportive relationships with families. Her passion for early childhood education shines through in her commitment to each child’s growth and development.
Cassidy was born and raised in the Bitterroot Valley, where she developed a strong connection to her community and a deep appreciation for the natural world. With a background in agriculture and a rich knowledge of music, she brings a unique blend of hands-on experience and creative expression to her work with young children. Cassidy currently holds a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential and is preparing to begin her journey toward earning a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education. She is passionate about creating meaningful learning experiences and is dedicated to supporting children and families during these important early years.
To explore how Cassidy can best support your needs, please contact her by email at cassidy@beln.org.
Cassidy’s favorite childhood memories is sitting beside her great-grandmother learning how to play piano. Those cherished moments were filled with warmth, love, and gentle guidance, as her great-grandmother patiently taught her each note. It was during those quiet lessons that Cassidy not only discovered a love for music but also formed a deep and lasting bond with someone she dearly admired.
MaryAnn Gray
Infant & Toddler Assistant Teacher
As an Assistant Infant and Toddler Teacher, MaryAnn helps create a fun, safe, and engaging learning environment for young children. She works closely with the Lead Teacher to implement daily activities, support children through routines, and guide them in their learning journey. MaryAnn is dedicated to ensuring families feel supported by building strong, trusting relationships with both children and parents. She brings a true passion for early childhood education and is excited to be part of the BELN team.
MaryAnn is a licensed and nationally certified pharmacy technician with 13 years of experience but recently discovered a new passion for teaching young minds. For the past three years, she has taught Infants, Toddlers, and Pre-K at local childcare centers. Known for her kind and gentle nature, she is deeply committed to creating a positive, warm, and nurturing experience for every child in her care.
To explore how MaryAnn can best support your needs, please contact her by email at maryann@beln.org.
One of MaryAnn’s favorite childhood memories is sitting with her family on the hood of her dad’s car under the carport, watching and listening to thunderstorms. Those moments left her with a lasting love for rainy days.
Timothy Lokker
Infant & Toddler Assistant Teacher
Timothy serves as an Assistant Teacher at Evergreen Saplings, where he helps create a nurturing and engaging learning environment for young children. Known for his calm and kind presence, Timothy fosters a warm, supportive atmosphere in the classroom, helping children feel safe, comfortable, and confident. He works closely with the Lead Teacher to guide daily activities, reinforce routines, and build strong relationships with both students and families. Drawing from his background in Fire Protection Technology, Timothy brings a strong awareness of safety and situational awareness to his role. His training allows him to confidently implement safety practices while actively supervising the center’s youngest learners, ensuring both their well-being and development are prioritized throughout the day.
Timothy was born in Montana, where his early years were shaped by nature and curiosity. At six, his family moved overseas, and he was homeschooled until age fourteen, developing independence, adaptability, and a love of learning. He then attended an international boarding high school, where he gained a global perspective and strong cross-cultural communication skills. After graduation, Timothy returned to the U.S. and enrolled in a Fire Protection Technology program in Washington State, combining academic study with hands-on training to pursue his interest in public safety and community service.
To explore how Timothy can best support your needs, please contact him by email at timothy@beln.org.
Timothy spent two weeks at a conference where he, along with a group of close friends, participated in daily swimming lessons. Each lesson began with a jump into the pool, filled with laughter and friendly competition as they raced, encouraged one another, and celebrated small victories. For Timothy, the lessons became more than just learning a new skill, they served as a meaningful reminder of the value of shared experiences and the bonds they create.
Taylor Anderson, MS, RD
Infant & Toddler Health & Nutrition Coordinator
Taylor is the nutritionist for Evergreen Saplings, where she supports children ages 6 months to 3 years by creating balanced, age-appropriate meals and snacks. She carefully designs menus that meet dietary needs while encouraging positive early experiences with food. With a background in food and nutrition and a passion for helping children build healthy relationships with what they eat, Taylor works closely with families to ensure mealtimes are both nourishing and supportive of each child’s growth. She believes that fostering healthy habits in the earliest years lays the foundation for lifelong well-being.
Taylor was diagnosed with type one diabetes at just four years old, which sparked her lifelong passion for nutrition and healthcare. Originally from Washington, she moved to pursue her education at North Idaho College and Montana State University–Billings, where she also played collegiate softball. She later attended Montana State University in Bozeman, earning her bachelor’s degree in food and nutrition followed by a master’s in dietetic systems leadership. Taylor completed her dietetic internship in Missoula and became a registered dietitian after passing her board examination in July of this year. One of her greatest passions is working with children to help them foster healthy relationships with food, and she is thrilled to bring that passion to her work at Saplings.
To explore how Taylor can best support your needs, please contact her by email at taylor@beln.org.
One of Taylor’s favorite childhood memories is participating in fundraisers and walk-a-thons with her family and friends to support the American Diabetes Association and raise money for a cure for Type One Diabetes. She and her mom often gave speeches about their experiences as a family coping with a T1D diagnosis, and in 2007, Taylor was honored as the Washington State Youth Ambassador for their advocacy and efforts toward finding a cure.
Kathyrn Cooper
Substitute
Kathryn (Kat) serves as a Substitute Teacher at BELN, stepping in to provide classroom support across programs as needed. For the past two school years, she was the Assistant Teacher at Evergreen Kids Corner, where she built strong connections with children and families. In her current role, she ensures continuity for both children and staff by helping implement daily routines, assisting with lessons, and maintaining a positive, engaging classroom environment. Kat is known for her flexibility, warmth, and ability to connect quickly with children, making her a valuable part of the team whenever extra support is needed.
Kat is originally from Nashville, TN, and has over 10 years of experience in early childhood education. Throughout her career, she has worked in various roles, including as a nanny, gym nursery lead, infant, school-age, and toddler lead teacher, and paraprofessional, among others. Kat holds an associate degree in early childhood education and is currently pursuing her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education.
To connect with Kat, please reach out through our general BELN admin email at explore@beln.org.
Kat’s favorite childhood memory is going to the library with her mom. They would often walk there together, savoring frozen cappuccinos on their way home, laughing and chatting about their day. The library was their special place, a sanctuary where they could get lost in the world of books. Kat remembers how they would spend hours exploring new stories, diving into different genres, and exchanging thoughts on their favorite authors. These trips became a cherished routine, fostering Kat’s love for reading and deepening her bond with her mom.
Jacquia McLeod
Substitute
Jacquia serves as a Substitute Teacher at BELN, providing flexible classroom support across programs as needed. This past summer, she also served as the Assistant Summer Camp Leader for the Summer Explorers program for older children. In these roles, Jacquia gained hands-on experience working alongside lead teachers, supporting classroom management, implementing daily routines, assisting with lessons, and helping maintain a positive and engaging learning environment. She is known for her warmth, energy, and playful nature, bringing joy and enthusiasm to every interaction with the children.
Jacquia is a Montana native and is currently in her senior year of high school. Along with her academic studies, she stays active through various extracurricular sports, which have helped her build teamwork, dedication, and leadership skills. She is excited to be a part of BELN, where she has the opportunity to expand her knowledge in early childhood education while exploring her future endeavors beyond high school. Jacquia looks forward to gaining hands-on experience, building meaningful connections, and continuing to grow both personally and professionally as she prepares for the next chapter of her journey.
To connect with Jacquia, please reach out through our general BELN admin email at explore@beln.org.
One of Jacquia’s favorite childhood memories is going on summer fishing trips with their grandpa. They would pack up their gear and head to scenic lakes, spending the weekend surrounded by nature. These trips weren’t just about catching fish, they were about sharing stories, building traditions, and creating lasting memories together. The peaceful weekends at the lake continue to be a cherished reminder of family, adventure, and the simple joys of childhood.
