Carolyn Wirkman


Director | She/Her/Hers

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“I believe our relationships are fundamental to our growth, effectiveness, and happiness—relationships with family, community and the natural world. I consider it a joy to help children develop awareness of themselves and others as they develop positive relationships in school. And, I love seeing their adults discovering their relationships with other families.”

Every year Carolyn looks forward to the end of the year field trip to Saltwater State Park. This has been a Kirkland Preschool tradition for over 30 years! Slowing down and enjoying a day together with picnic lunches, beach exploration, roasting marshmallows, and in some years puddle jumping, is the perfect end to the school year and transition to summer.

With a music degree from Ithaca College and a teaching degree from Seattle Pacific University, Carolyn began her robust teaching career teaching upper elementary at John Muir in the Lake Washington School District. She joined Kirkland Preschool in 1978, and became Director in the 1990’s.

Carolyn and her husband of 52 years, Vince, reside in north Kirkland with a particularly small black cat named Pearl. Her son Eric, who attended Kirkland Preschool, and his partner Laura reside in Seattle with their wonderful dog, Clementine. Carolyn's daughter Jennifer, who also attended, lives in Seattle and helps around school. Her granddaughter, Kaylin, who also attended, is now a part of our team at Kirkland Preschool, and lives in Seattle with her grandson, Kamden, who also attended.

Carolyn also spent many years volunteering for Girl Scouts of Western Washington as a Volunteer Learning Facilitator. When she is not at school, you can find Carolyn attending the current show at Seattle Opera, immersed in a book, or spending time with her lively family.