Hello! I am Nicole Burbank, the founder of STEAM Studios. I am also a wife, mother of three, and educator. I have my bachelor's in Elementary Education and Master's in Educational Leadership from Northern Arizona University. I spent the first part of my career in public education as a teacher at two different arts academies, curriculum writer, and high school administrator.

I came to the homeschool world a year ago when my daughter started Kindergarten and have absolutely loved this lifestyle change for myself and my family. For fun I like to exercise, go to Disney, travel, play video games, and learn new skills.

Hello! My name is Tara Brown. I live in Peoria, AZ with my spouse and 2 children. I’m an art teacher with 10+ years in classroom experience. I substitute teach, I instruct paint and pottery classes, I bake sourdough bread and I am an after-school drawing instructor. I’m a proud mother, professional artist and educator. I look forward to being part of the STEAM Studios family!

Tara has her degree in Art.

Hello everyone! My name is Chantell Mendon. I’m a mother of 2 awesome kids and wife to a great husband of 16 years. I also have two fur babies, my cavapoo pups Buster and Oakley, who are big parts of my life. Some of my hobbies include, exercising, cooking, organizing, cleaning, watching baseball, and my favorite thing of all- hiking! I have been a substitute teacher for the past 3 school years. I enjoy teaching but substitute teaching has left me wanting more; I am looking forward to teaching your awesome kids, building relationships with them, and watching them learn and grow!

Chantell has her degree in mathematics.

Hello! My name is Maren Erickson. I just moved here from Washington State. I enjoy working with kids and have been a volunteer coach for sports in the past. Growing up I was homeschooled, but I've also been able to experience public and private school and have seen the pros and cons of both. My hobbies are traveling, hiking, crocheting, painting, and cooking. I believe in making learning full of fun and movement. I'm so excited to be part of this amazing program to help children experience working with peers and learning in a group setting. 

Hello, my name is Christie Maestas. I'm a dedicated educator originally from California, now happily residing in Arizona. I have been married for seven years and have a three year old daughter. With six years of teaching experience, I've taught kindergarten for three years, fourth grade for one year, and fifth grade for two years. In addition, I hold a Master's Degree in Education. I am passionate about fostering a love for learning in my students and creating a supportive environment that encourages academic and personal growth. I'm committed to making a positive impact and inspiring young learners in their educational journeys. I look forward to the opportunity of teaching your child in this unique and amazing program!