MEET THE TEACHERS
Our job is too difficult and too beautiful to do alone. -Amelia Gambetti, Reggio Emilia 2015
Passionate, dedicated, and loving, Open Air Village teachers love their work and it shows in everything they do. Our goal is to make a positive difference in every young person who steps into our program. We strive to create a calm, secure environment where children can thrive and guide their learning in whatever direction their interests take them. Teachers are "play facilitators" and supportive role models, enhancing the environment with their subtle presence. When a child is part of Open Air Village, they are an extension of our family.
Nicole & Bryan were recently awarded the Five Rivers Metroparks "OUTstanding Teacher[s] of the Year"
Award for Early Childhood in 2025 - 2026
Director/ Co-Owner
Nature Preschool Teacher
Co-Owner
Preschool & After-School Teacher
As owners and lead teachers, Nicole and Bryan Gay spend each day alongside the children, creating the consistent, relationship-based environment that has become the heart of Open Air Village.
Nicole earned her Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education from Wright State University in 2010. Her professional experience includes Spanish-immersion teaching in Chile, serving as a lead teacher for students with diverse learning needs, and teaching kindergarten in the public schools before transitioning to child-led, nature-based education.
Bryan brings a business background and nearly two decades of experience working with young children. His passion for outdoor play, risk-taking, and nature education helps create meaningful opportunities for children to build confidence, resilience, and a lasting connection to the natural world.
Together, Nicole and Bryan have spent nearly twenty years learning, teaching, and growing alongside children. Their work was recognized in 2026 when they received the Five Rivers MetroParks OUTstanding Teachers of the Year award in the Early Childhood category for connecting children with nature through meaningful outdoor experiences.
When they're not at Open Air Village, Nicole and Bryan enjoy spending time outdoors with their two children, who continue to inspire the philosophy behind the program they lovingly created.
OUR TEAM
 TiffanyTiffany Ward, Teacher |  CarynCaryn Diamond, Music Education |
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Open Air Village is enriched by educators who share a passion for nurturing childhood through nature, creativity, and meaningful relationships.
Tiffany Ward is a naturalist who leads seasonal nature studies and outdoor exploration, encouraging children to observe, investigate, and build lasting connections with the natural world. She recently completed the Naturalist Training Program through Glen Helen Outdoor Education and is an Ohio Certified Volunteer Naturalist, bringing both local knowledge and a deep appreciation for our region's natural ecosystems into the children's experiences.
Caryn Diamond leads Open Air Village's music enrichment program, where children experience the joy of singing, movement, rhythm, and instrument exploration. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Music from the University of Kentucky and a Master of Music in Trumpet Performance from Illinois State University. Caryn recently completed her Orff Level I teacher training, an internationally recognized approach to music education that emphasizes learning through singing, movement, play, and creative exploration.