Each school day at Corbett Preschool, there are up to 20 children that show up to enjoy either a half or full day of fun, adventure and learning. Children need to be at least three years old and "mostly" potty trained. Nikki Hjelm is one of the two teachers that greet the children each day. There is both before and after care, but Nikki and her co- teacher are there 8 am -3 pm each school day. Nikki helps to teach the children "soft skills" which includes raising your hand to ask questions, standing in line, cutting open a package of fruit snacks, etc. Nikki just loves to see the twinkle in the eye of a child that "gets it" when a connection is made on how to find success with the many, many soft skills that are taught. Of course, children also learn academics, yet it is through a fun and exploratory manner that things are taught. Nikki was born in Charlotte, NC and then eventually moved to Oregon to grow up in the SE Portland area. There was a short move to The Dalles and then in 8th grade Nikki spent the rest of her school years in Gresham, OR., graduating from Gresham High School. Nikki laughs when stating that she was always a teacher's pet in school, wanting to help and organize classrooms with her teachers. Nikki also pretended to "teach" her siblings when growing up! After high school, Nikki explored several options for careers. First, she became licensed in the state of Oregon as a cosmetologist. During her three year run at this, a client introduced her to her son. Knowing "of" him, they formally met and started dating. Married in 2006, today they share two sons, ages 8 and 6. Working in cosmetology for three years, her sister was involved in a very serious car accident, and Nikki stepped aside to care for her disabled sister for two years. When her boys were babies, Nikki wanted to stay home, so she started an at home day care. It was in March 2012 Nikki was hired as an aide after volunteering consistently. In 2013, Nikki was hired as a full-time Corbett employee. Currently living in Corbett with her husband and two sons, they enjoy camping, floating on the river and at home movie nights. When Nikki has quiet time for herself, she love to crochet, recently making a dress for her niece!
