We’re a diverse group who share a passion for children and early language learning.     Jackie Friedman Mighdoll, Founder Jackie has been working internationally and inter-culturally for more than a decade. She has developed radio programs, consumer electronics products and Internet services for US and international markets. After her first son was born, she recognized the importance of acquiring language from an early age and founded Sponge. She is the author of the National Network Early Language Learning journal article Starting Young: Best Practices for Ages 0-6 and an advocate and speaker on early language learning. She has an MBA from the Wharton School of Business and a Masters in International Studies from the University of Pennsylvania. Rachel VanDeMark, Regional Director Rachel started at Sponge as a parent in our pilot program and loved it so much that she joined us as the director of our Mt Baker location. Rachel has a BA in Psychology and a BS in Nursing--and believes in treating families and children as individuals in the context of their own unique situations. Her young children use English, Mandarin & Spanish at home, and are particularly fond of singing songs in any language. Our teachers Our teachers are a diverse group who come from all over the world including Chile, China, Colombia, France, Japan, Puerto Rico and Taiwan. Many have degrees in language and education and years of experience in teaching. Many are parents themselves and experience personally the joys -- and challenges -- of raising bilingual children. They all have a passion for sharing language and culture with children and their families.       Copyright 2005-2008 Sponge, Inc.