Hello!
I'm Shannon Vasilev, the heart and soul of Our Nest Schoolhouse. For the past decade, teaching preschool has been my passion, and it's a flame that still burns brightly. My journey in education began with studies in Early Childhood Education and Child Development at Los Angeles City College and Naropa University, where I soaked up knowledge like a sponge.
When I'm not in the classroom, I'm at home with my lively little zoo: a parakeet, two cats, and a handful of chickens. Recently, we had to say goodbye to our loyal dog of twelve years, a tough but inevitable part of life.
I share my life with two amazing partners, Race and Sophia, and our bundle of joy, Gus, who was born this past February. Parenthood has added a whole new dimension to my world, full of self reflection and endless love.
Beyond my roles as a teacher and a mom, I'm passionate about art and design, finding inspiration in the little things. I'm also a collector of antiques and all things vintage, drawn to the magic and nostalgia they bring. As a proud member of the LGBTQIA community, I draw strength from solidarity.
Board games, comedy, and mindfulness meditation help me unwind, and there's nothing quite like a soak in my claw-foot tub to wash away the day's stresses.
I take pride in my community, striving to help and be of service to those in need, from mothers to the houseless. As a mental health advocate, I am dedicated to promoting awareness and support for mental well-being.
Every aspect of my life is dedicated to bringing love, safety, and beauty to those around me. Having faced my own adversities, I strive to make a positive impact wherever I can.
Our Story
The inception of Our Nest Schoolhouse blossomed from a profound need within our community—a need for both in-person schooling and safe childcare, all woven together with a deep love for teaching children. When the pandemic upheaved our lives, I found myself without a job, and the students I had been teaching were abruptly sent home. In the midst of this uncertainty, I opened the doors of my rented space on Yamhill Street, nestled in the charming Sunnyside neighborhood of Southeast Portland, offering it as a temporary sanctuary. What began with just three children soon swelled to ten, as families sought refuge and stability amidst the chaos.
As time passed, it became clear that this wasn't just a temporary solution. The bonds formed within those walls were strong, and the need for a nurturing, educational environment persisted. With unwavering determination, I took a leap of faith and purchased the old Victorian house on Yamhill Street, transforming it into a haven for young learners—a place where education and joy intertwine seamlessly.
From those humble beginnings, Our Nest Schoolhouse has flourished. Each day brings new discoveries, laughter echoing through the halls, and a sense of belonging that transcends mere education. We've grown not only in numbers but in spirit, fostering a community where every child is cherished, every curiosity nurtured, and every dream encouraged. Our journey continues, fueled by passion, dedication, and the unwavering belief in the transformative power of education and love.