Allison Church

Program Director

Working for and leading Hope Harbor at St. David’s had been a dream for Allison. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Family and Human Development from Arizona State University and has spent her career immersed in early childhood education. Her background spans a variety of learning environments, from innovative, outdoor Waldorf-inspired programs to leading pre-kindergarten classrooms in mission-driven non-profit settings.

Before leading Hope Harbor at St. David’s, Allison partnered with Rebecca Hope at Lopez Children’s Center, where she played a key role in revitalizing the school’s team, curriculum, and vision. Her leadership helped secure multiple program-enhancing grants and set the foundation for a thriving, child-centered community of learners.

As a San Juan Island resident, Allison is deeply committed to building an inclusive, equitable, and joyful learning space for children and families. Her professional passions include social justice, autism studies, and the power of play-based education to nurture curiosity and confidence, the very focus of her current graduate studies.

Outside of her work, Allison enjoys tending her garden, treasure-hunting at local thrift shops, watching reality TV, and spending time with her wife and their beloved rescue pup.

A young woman with short, wavy hair, blue eyes, and freckles, wearing a red shirt and gold earrings, standing outdoors in a wooded area with sunlight filtering through the trees.