Director/Teacher

Desiree Patten has been a part of Harbor City School since 2016 as a Lead Teacher and has since transitioned into the director position.  Desiree has attended extensive trainings in the Reggio Emilia Model and was the lead in implementing this learning strategy at HCS. When not at school Desiree enjoys spending time with her husband, two children and many pets, reading, cooking and traveling.

Teachers

Andrea Vela-Galvez Andrea was born in Cambridge but raised in Revere.  She has recently obtained a Child Development Associates with Salem State University. This will be her first year teaching preschool at Harbor City School. Before that, she was an accountant in the hospitality industry. Andrea plans to make a difference in the lives of children she meets along the way, and to create a safe learning environment. In her spare time she enjoys spending time with her family, roller skating and gardening.

Hiroyo Dixon Hiroyo(Yoyo) was born and raised in Japan. She has been in the United States since 2013. She lives in East Boston since then. Hiroyo holds her certification in early childhood education. She loves eating, baking and spending time with her 16 year old daughter.

Hailee Van Housen

Hailee is from Northern California and moved to Boston in 2022. In California, she received her B.A. in Liberal Studies and taught Kindergarten. This is her first year teaching preschool and she is very excited to be at Harbor City School! In her free time, Hailee loves to read, swim, and go on walks with her dog. 

Ilse Rivera

Ilse was born and raised in Mexico, where she earned a BA in Psychology. She worked as a Spanish teacher in South Boston for over two years, and is thrilled to begin her role as the new assistant teacher at HCS and contribute to the students’ learning journey. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, watching movies, and practicing outdoor activities.

Support Staff

Anne McPherson- Anne was born and raised in East Boston, and now resides in Revere. Anne has always enjoyed working with children, and she has two children of her own. Anne holds her certification in early childhood education. Anne works hard to support the classrooms, teachers and director.