Meet Our Team

Our team is made up of caring, dedicated educators who create a safe, nurturing, and inspiring environment for every child. We value strong relationships and take the time to truly understand and support each child.

Inspired by the Reggio Emilia Approach, our teachers guide learning through curiosity, creativity, and connection. We are proud to partner with families to build a warm, supportive community where children can thrive.

Pat Watthananon

As the founder of Be You Preschool & Childcare, I’m passionate about creating a warm, nurturing environment where children feel safe, valued, and excited to learn. With a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, I bring both professional knowledge and a genuine love for working with young children to our program.

I believe children learn best when they are given opportunities to explore, ask questions, build relationships, and discover the world through meaningful experiences. Inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, I strive to create a space that encourages curiosity, creativity, independence, and a strong sense of belonging.

Above all, my goal is to build a childcare community where children can truly be themselves while learning to respect themselves, others, and the world around them. I want families to feel confident knowing their children are cared for with patience, respect, intention, and thoughtful guidance.

Founder

Ms. Mim Worathongchai

Hi, I’m Ms. Mim, and I’m so happy to be part of Be You!

After completing my Montessori teacher training, I quickly discovered that working with young children is my true passion. Over the past several years, I’ve had the joy of supporting little ones as they learn, play, and grow into confident and curious learners.

I am passionate about creating a warm, nurturing, and safe environment where children feel loved, supported, and free to be themselves. I believe in learning through play, hands-on exploration, and celebrating every small milestone along the way.

My goal is to help each child build confidence, independence, and a lifelong love of learning while making their early school experience joyful and meaningful.

I can’t wait to meet you and your wonderful children!

Lead Teacher
Lead Teacher

Mrs. Bethany Cook

Hi, I’m Bethany Cook! I’ve always loved working with children, especially ages 0–5, and I love those little “lightbulb moments” when something suddenly clicks for a child.

I have over 20 years of experience in early childhood education, from assistant teacher to Director and Director-in-Training. I hold an AA in Early Childhood Education and have experience in a variety of educational settings, including Montessori, private Christian education, and Head Start. These experiences have given me the opportunity to explore different teaching approaches and better understand how children learn and grow.

I’m a lifelong Washingtonian, although I’m somehow cold about 90% of the year! When I’m not working, I enjoy concerts, trying new restaurants, baking, and spending time outdoors with my daughter. We especially love exploring nature and finding frogs—my favorite animal, of course!

I truly enjoy getting to know each child and family and feel lucky to be part of a community that encourages curiosity, creativity, and a love of learning.

Ms. Meow Detphalat

Chef/Classroom Assistant

Ms. Meow is a caring and dependable member of the Be You Preschool & Childcare team. She supports our classroom while also preparing fresh, nutritious meals and snacks for the children. She enjoys creating a warm, welcoming environment where children feel comfortable, cared for, and encouraged to explore. Her nurturing personality and willingness to help wherever needed make her a valued part of our team.

Teacher Assistant

Ms. Rina Chan

Hi! I'm Rina. I was born and raised in Washington and am currently pursuing my bachelor's degree at the University of Washington.

I am passionate about creating a safe, nurturing, and loving environment where every child feels valued, supported, and encouraged to be themselves. One of my favorite parts of working with children is watching them reach new milestones and grow into their unique personalities. My experience caring for children from diverse backgrounds has strengthened my belief that every child deserves individualized care and a strong foundation for lifelong learning.

Outside of work, I enjoy exploring new cafés, photography, and expressing my creativity through fashion. I'm excited to be part of the Be You Preschool & Childcare family and to support each child's growth and development.