Old Mill Center

for Children and Families

Preschool Teachers

Donna Brown, BS, Program Manager

Donna has been part of the Old Mill team since 2006.  She graduated from OSU with a Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education. She lives in Jefferson with her husband, 14-year-old son, and 11-year-old daughter. She still gets excited watching a child’s face light up when they’ve learned something new!

Donna Brown Old Mill Center Preschool

Jessie Brakefield, Lead Teacher

Jessie joined us as a preschool teacher in February 2025. She is pursuing a bachelor’s degree from OSU in Human Development and Family Sciences.

“I have been teaching preschool for a few years now, and I absolutely love it! My favorite part is being able to provide a safe space for the kids so they can grow into the best version of themselves.”

Michelle Carpenter, Co-Lead Teacher

Michelle is a Linn-Benton Community College graduate with an AAS in Early Childhood Education. As a preschool teacher, she strives to encourage her students’ independence and confidence. She loves watching her students change and grow during the school year. In her free time, Michelle enjoys sewing, reading and exploring new places.

Kimberly Salazar-Fierros, AA, Co-Lead Teacher

Kimberly has an AAOT from Mt. Hood Community College and has been working at Old Mill for 6 years. As a proud mommy herself, she knows how hard it can be for kiddos to transition to a new classroom, and has had the privilege of seeing it from both the parenting and teaching sides. She loves working with kids and watching as they blossom into great students.

Peyton Fitzner, Assistant Teacher

Peyton graduated from OSU and has a passion for working with children. With a caring and compassionate approach, she strives to provide a nurturing environment in which each child can grow and express themselves. In her free time, she enjoys caring for her guinea pig, Applejack, and seeing movies in theaters.

Peyton Fitzner

Karina Rohwer, Assistant Teacher

Karina is majoring in Early Childhood Development at OSU. She loves children and the way they see the world around them. “To a child, everything is new and piques their curiosity… which inspires me to do the same!”

In her spare time, Karina loves any activity outdoors — whether is be reading, adding to her art journal, kayaking or hiking with her pups.

Elliot Simeral, Teacher Support Floater

Elliot has been with our program since May 2025, but has wanted to be a teacher since she was a child. “I love working with preschoolers because they are so filled with joy and creative energy. They constantly inspire you to be the best version of yourself.”

Originally from Texas, Elliot has lived in the PNW for 10 years. She enjoys nature, art and cooking in her spare time.