Our Teacher Bios

Originally from Ban Vanai Thailand and raised in a refugee camp, Ms. Mai later moved to Washington state to further her education. Married with five children, she enjoys outdoor pursuits, napping, assisting her family, and educating others on Hmong culture and language. Ms. Mai fully embraces her Hmong roots and delights in preparing homemade meals.

Born and raised in Thailand, has a passion for teaching and preserving her culture. Growing up in a refugee camp, she moved to America during middle school. Ms. Kao began her education in Minnesota, graduated, got married, and relocated to Alaska. She pursued further studies in early childhood education at UAA, becoming the first in her family to attend college.  Ms. Kao takes pleasure in cooking delectable Hmong cuisine, exploring nature, hiking, fishing, engaging in arts and crafts, and spending time with her loved ones and friends.

Ms. Ana proudly embraces her Tongan heritage and loves engaging with children. With extensive babysitting experience and a background in a large family, she is passionate about playing volleyball. Ms. Ana values diversity, different cultures, and finds happiness in activities such as enjoying good food, traveling, shopping, and sports. Ms. Ana actively supports the Polynesian Association of Alaska and is also engaged with her church, particularly in youth and women's groups. She has participated in two mission trips, community service initiatives, and delights in capturing high school sports moments for yearbooks. Ms. Ana pursues early childhood education at UAA.

With over 20 years of experience in early childhood education. She remains dedicated to enhancing her skills by taking classes through Thread and will soon be pursuing further education at UAA. Outside of work, Ms. Lonnie enjoys cooking homemade meals, baking, traveling, and has a fondness for Jack and Sally. On a personal note, she is a mother to her son, happily married to a wonderful husband, and cares for a diverse family of 4 cats (Magic, Mavis, Mister Bean, Morgyn), 2 dogs (Skye, Odynn), and a tortoise named Amelia.

From Laos, where she grew up in a refugee camp. She is a proud mother of six and happily married. Ms. Kia's deep-rooted love for her culture shines through in her passion for cooking delectable meals for her family and colleagues, as well as her fondness for farming, foraging, fishing, and engaging in arts and crafts. She enjoys preparing traditional Hmong dishes, sewing, and cherishes spending time with her children and loved ones. Ms. Kia remains committed to her professional development through Thread and other educational programs.