Julia Cates

I first discovered the Barn while searching for a preschool for my own son. I was immediately intrigued by the cooperative model—it felt warm, welcoming, and community-centered in a way that really stood out. Little did I know then that I’d find not just a school, but a place I’d come to call home.

My background is in Architectural Engineering, with a focus in lighting design. Before working in early childhood education, I spent several years in New York City and Philadelphia designing lighting systems for a wide range of projects. But after joining the Barn as a teaching assistant, something shifted for me. I fell in love with the classroom, with the children, and with the joy of early learning. That led me back to school to earn my certifications as a Lead Teacher.

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Working with young children feels like such a gift. I love listening to their stories, seeing their imaginations take off, and witnessing their pride when they learn something new. I try to create a space that feels safe, loving, and full of possibility—where curiosity is welcomed and celebrated.

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When it comes to books, I adore stories that rhyme—they’re so much fun to read with preschoolers. Lately, I’ve really fallen in love with Julia Donaldson’s books for the way they engage children while offering gentle life lessons. And I’ll always have a special place in my heart for Harry Potter. Reading those stories with my own children was magical.

What makes the Barn special, to me, is truly everything—our children, our families, and our teachers. The small size and cooperative structure allow us to build meaningful connections and really know each other. We’re not just a school; we’re a community, and I feel so lucky to be a part of it.