Meet Our Staff | Christian Daycare in Oregon City

Meet Our Team!

Caring. Qualified. Christ-Centered.

At Victory Early Learning Center, we believe great care starts with great people. Every staff member is here by calling—not just career. We are passionate about nurturing young children in a safe, structured, faith-based environment where every child is known, loved, and celebrated.

All of our teachers and staff:

Pass all required Oregon background checks
Are trained in early childhood development, classroom leadership, and CPR/First Aid
Share a deep commitment to supporting children’s spiritual, emotional, social, and academic growth

VELC Leadership Team

Site Director

Rachel Anne Veal

Rachel brings over 25 years in early childhood education and more than two decades in church ministry leadership. Since joining VELC in 2022, she’s led with both passion and purpose. Rachel’s background includes roles as Assistant Director, Lead Teacher, and Teacher’s Assistant—giving her a deep, hands-on understanding of what children and teachers need to thrive.

She holds advanced training in:

Cognitive and emotional development
Positive behavior guidance
Infant/toddler care
Supporting children with autism
Play-based learning and physical development

Known as “Mrs. Rachel” by her students, she blends joy, structure, and deep biblical values in everything she does.

Pastors Aaron and Emily Hanson, founders of Victory Early Learning Center and Victory Church in Oregon City

Aaron & Emily Hanson

Lead Pastors at Victory Church

Aaron and Emily are the visionaries behind Victory ELC. They are passionate about creating an environment where children grow in faith, confidence, and character. Their leadership is rooted in the belief that every child is deeply loved by God and deserves to be seen, supported, and spiritually grounded.

VELC Teaching Team

Planting seeds of faith, learning and joy.

At Victory Early Learning Center, our teachers are the heart of everything we do. Each member of our team is carefully chosen for their passion, experience, and commitment to nurturing the growth of young children. Our educators bring a wide range of talents and training to the classroom, creating an environment that is not only safe and structured, but also joyful, engaging, and filled with love.

All staff members complete regular training in child development, CPR/First Aid, health and safety, and best practices in early learning. Most importantly, they show up each day with patience, creativity, and a genuine love for the children in their care.

Head Teacher – Lions Class (Infants) | Sub-Director

Natalie Woods

A foundational member of our team since 2019, Natalie has worked across all age groups and now leads our Lions classroom for infants. With over 5 years of experience, she is creative, nurturing, and deeply knowledgeable in infant development.

Head Teacher – Bears Class (Preschool/Pre-K) | Closing Sub-Director

Rocio Yanez Arango

Ms. Rocio brings a blend of journalism, ministry, and early education experience, and she’s passionate about helping children grow in both Spanish and English. She brings energy, love, and intentional learning to every part of the classroom.

Head Teacher – Tigers Class (Toddlers)

Elise Chirgwin

Originally joining VELC as a Teacher’s Assistant, Elise quickly proved herself as a joyful, reliable leader and now serves as our head toddler teacher. She brings experience from church camps, children’s ministry, and childcare, and is loved for her kind, upbeat personality.

Teacher’s Assistant – Floating Staff

Ella Wootan

Ella joined VELC in Summer 2024 and is known for her gentle, joyful spirit. She has served in multiple classrooms and continues to volunteer in children’s ministry at Victory Church.

Teacher’s Assistant – Floating Staff

Marley Phillips

A natural educator, Marley has school leadership in her blood—both her mom and grandma are teachers. Since joining in Summer 2024, she’s been a classroom favorite, especially during story time and games.

Substitute Teacher | Former Head Teacher – Tigers Class

Andrea Philips

With 25+ years of teaching experience, Andrea brings depth, wisdom, and creativity to our team. She served as Head Teacher before transitioning into a flexible substitute role, and she remains a vital part of our teaching staff.

A Team You Can Trust

Our entire staff is here to partner with you in building a strong, faith-filled foundation for your child. We’re not just educators — we’re caregivers, encouragers, and lifelong learners too.

📍 Victory Early Learning Center | 811 Center St, Oregon City, OR
📞 503-882-8000
📧 info@victoryearlylearningcenter.com