Meet Our Teachers

Lead Bumblebee Teacher

Patty Guzman

3 years - 5 years

Patty has spent over 20 years working with young children and families in the San Pedro community and helping little learners grow has always been the heart of her work. She loves watching children explore, imagine, and discover the world around them — it’s truly magical.

Her classroom will follow a Reggio Emilia–inspired, play-based approach, were children

learn through hands-on exploration, creativity, and meaningful experiences. She is passionate about making every child feel safe, loved, and excited to learn each day.

Outside of the classroom, she enjoys listening to music, watching movies, baking sweet treats, and reading stories. Her favorite princess is Belle from Beauty and the Beast, because she loves books, kindness, and adventure — just like we do in our classroom!

Lead Butterfly Teacher

Nikki Apple

18 months - 35 months

From first words to first steps, Nikki delights in the magic of toddlers’ everyday milestones.

Nikki studied early childhood education at Moorpark College and has 10 years of experience in children’s gyms and behavioral therapy settings, guiding little ones through movement, play, and hands-on discovery while supporting each child’s growth, confidence, and independence.

Inspired by Reggio Emilia practices, Nikki sees toddlers as curious, capable learners and creates a classroom where they can explore, wonder, and make sense of the world at their own pace. She values close partnerships with families and enjoys watching children shine in their unique ways.

When she’s not in the classroom, Nikki loves walking in nature, traveling, playing tabletop games, and relaxing with her two cats, Jake and Arya.

Teacher's Assistant

Sarah Gill

18 months - 5 years

Sarah is currently studying Early Childhood Education at El Camino College and plans to continue her education to become a preschool teacher.

She has spent many years working with children, beginning as a madrichim in Torah school after her bat mitzvah. Sarah also babysits children of all ages and is continuing her child development studies while working toward CPR certification. She believes children learn best when surrounded by friends, supported by teachers, and treated with love and respect.

In her free time, Sarah enjoys gymnastics, attending temple, spending time with friends, and going to Disneyland.

Our Team

Katie Kang, MAED

CEO and Director

Katie Kang brings over 20 years of experience to early childhood education, specializing in nonprofit management and inclusive program development. Currently pursuing a Doctorate in Early Childhood Education at American Jewish University, she has led initiatives in pediatric therapy, Head Start, and trauma-informed care.

As a co-founder of a community-based Jewish Early Childhood Center and a national speaker on co-regulation, Katie is dedicated to forging strong family partnerships and ensuring every child has an equitable opportunity to thrive.

Matt Kang

COO and Facilities

Matt is our go to man with a plan. Not only is he our CEO & director’s husband, but is also a US Marine Combat Veteran and a dedicated father.

You can catch him at his kids flag football games, coaching young kids at Seaside Wrestling Club in Redondo Beach or playing on Temple Beth El's softball league alongside Katie!

With his discipline and resourceful skillset from his military and professional career working for Cal Water, he maintains our preschool’s facility along with building or painting or building anything we need for your little ones.

Emily Bryan

Admin and Communications

As Katie's sister, Emily is affectionally known as 'Auntie' or 'Auntie Em' to Katie & Matt's two children.

With a sharp eye for detail and a dynamic creative mind and love for photography, she is the heart of our social media accounts. She is the creator and curator of all our content!

Bringing over 15 years of experience in administration and communications, she excels at compassionate customer service and building strong, collaborative partnerships with local communities. Her diverse background includes admin and social work ranging from the start of life to end of life care and everything in between.

She truly is a "'Jane' of all trades".

Have questions?

Want to collaborate for an event?

Reach out to us at admin@mykehillah.org

‪(424) 262-0036‬