Meet The Staff
Operations Director
Kelsi McRae
Helps run the day to day operation of the center. Has a degree in Mathematics from MSU in Bozeman. I have lived in Dillon for just over 6 years, and have loved getting to be apart of the community. I coach Long Distance Track at BCHS in the Spring, and have always had a passion for sports, and running. When I am not working or running I love getting to spend time with my husband, and getting to watch our little boy grow and meet new milestones everyday.
Lead Teacher (Infant Toddler Class)
Kylie Bradley
Born and raised in Nevada. I moved to Dillon with my boyfriend in January of 2023. Growing up I played fast pitch softball, which ended up taking me all over the west coast and eventually allowed me to play in college as well. I’m passionate about health and fitness and in the last few months I picked up Olympic weightlifting which has been a life changer for me! I’m also very passionate about hunting and getting to explore new country with family and friends.
Lead Teacher (Pre-K Class)
Lakota Becker
Currently working towards a Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education P-3 at the UM Western. With a deep passion for helping young children thrive, I have gained valuable experience since August 2021 working as both an assistant teacher and lead teacher. Throughout this time, I’ve developed strong skills in classroom management, lesson planning, and child-centered teaching. My focus is on creating dynamic, developmentally appropriate learning environments that foster children’s cognitive, social, and emotional growth. I strive to make every child feel supported and empowered in their learning journey. When I'm not working, I enjoy spending time outdoors and staying connected with my family. Even though I can’t always be there, watching my four nephews grow is something I cherish.
Kitchen Manager & Assistant Teacher
Hannah Gilliam
I was born in Livingston, MT, and I have lived here in Dillon for about eight years. I have my associates degree from UM Western, and I am planning to eventually continue my education in the early childhood field. In my free time, I love cooking, reading, and doing art projects.
Assistant Teacher
Maddie Cope
I’m from Cascade Montana, and I’m currently pursuing my bachelor degree in Early Childhood Education at Western. I enjoy working with young children and watching them succeed!
Assistant Teacher
Ariana Pruttis
I am from Conrad, MT. I am a sophomore at UMW studying Elementary Education. I am very passionate about creating a positive and welcoming space in the classroom! I love watching the sunset and being with my friends and family.
Assistant Teacher
Karmen Ward
I have been at Odyssey since 2021. I am going to the UM Western for Elementary Education. I am from Enumclaw, Washington. I love riding horses and roping. I enjoy anything outdoors!
Assistant Teacher
Skylie Lefdahl
I am a Junior her at UM Western, majoring in Early Childhood Ed. While working at Odyssey I’ve gained loads of experience. I come from a large family and that is where my love for the passion stems from. Everything I do is to help show my five younger siblings anything is possible. My little brother currently lives with me and attends school at Beaverhead High.
Assistant Teacher
Brookelynn Ruckman
I am currently a student at UM Western studying Modern History and Secondary Education. I am from Lewistown, Montana. I enjoy watching over children, and helping them achieve their milestones. My hobbies include: cooking, sewing, and photography.
Assistant Teacher
Lydia Husley
I have been in the childcare field for 2 1/2 years, and am perusing a degree of Early Childhood at UM Western. I am very passionate about children and how they learn and love every second I spend learning about their nature. I hope to do my very best to engage children in an environment that encourages them to learn and grow.
Assistant Teacher
Brynn Varady
I am a Junior in the Early Childhood Education Program here at UM Western. I spend most of my time at school or here at Odyssey. If I'm not at either one of those places I love watching movies, and just relaxing on my couch.
Assistant Teacher
Lauren Holston
I am a junior at UM Western studying Environmental Sustainability. When I graduate I would like to go into Enviromental Education and work with kids in National Parks; getting them excited to explore the outdoors.
Assistant Teacher
Liana Patterson
I am a Education student here at UM Western. On top of getting to work at the center, in the fall I am a team manger for our nationally ranked football team. When not there I enjoy getting to surround myself with friends.
Assistant Teacher
Natalie Campbell
I am a freshman here at UM Western, studying in the Early Childhood Education Program. I enjoy spending time with my friends and family, and love being outsde.
Assistant Teacher
Lilliana Valenzuela
I am from Dillon, and after some time away moved and have been enjoying being back. I have a visual impairment, but that has never stopped me. I love to read, snuggle with my cat, and hang out with family and friends. It is so fun to watch the kiddos learn new things and get excited about becoming more independent!