Nestled in the heart of the Pico-Robertson area, we sat down with Piper’s director, Nicole Royston, in her front office overlooking the playground. There’s an ever-evolving landscape of early childhood education in Los Angeles, and it takes a special kind of leader to keep up. With innovators like Nicole, the task is much less weary. Her journey in early education started back in 2009 with Piper founders Crystal Free and Jesse Biltz. Nicole’s journey from associate teacher for 2 year-olds to founding director of Piper’s second campus is nothing short of inspiring. Having weathered challenges of the past few years, and drawn inspiration from Piper’s emergent curriculum, Nicole shares her story of resilience, growth, and the driving force behind her passion for education.

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Nicole, your journey at Piper Preschool is quite remarkable. Can you take us back to your early days as a 2-year-old teacher in 2009?

(she giggles and smiles) Did Crystal and Jesse tell you to ask that?

Ha. They did not. What’s up?

After working in commercial insurance for almost a decade, I decided to go back to school to focus on early childhood education. I applied and interviewed with Crystal, Jesse, and Helen. Helen was their first hire and the OG Admissions Queen… shout out to Helen. I immediately fell in love with them, the school, and philosophy. I got hired as an associate teacher for 2-year-olds. It was my first year teaching, and let’s just say, my immunity was not up for it. I ended up missing over half of the year with a variety of crazy illnesses. I went down hard. Embarrassing, but they stood by me. It was a challenging start, but amidst the hurdles, I found a deep connection with the kids and the philosophy. That connection laid the foundation for what would become the truly transformative journey that got me here talking to you.

You took a break and had a daughter. What drew you back to Piper Preschool in 2015, and how did your role evolve from there?

I was lucky enough to stay home with my daughter for her first few years, but quickly realized I would return to work when it was time. Once she started school, I reached back out to Crystal. Although the germs had knocked me out that first year, lucky for me, the connections I made were strong. The sense of community, the thoughtfulness in every little detail, and seeing the children as competent little human beings, was calling me back. Crystal took a chance, and welcomed me with open arms. I returned as an associate teacher, eventually becoming lead teacher, division coordinator, and admissions director. All while also being a parent with a child at Piper. Each role added a layer to my understanding of the profound impact we could have on young minds and families. The break was much needed, but I was ready to be back.

Now, you're at the helm of Piper Los Angeles. What inspired this new chapter in your career?

I never wanted to stop growing professionally. When I first joined Piper, it was clear that my goal was to get into admissions. I loved sharing Piper’s unique philosophy with prospective parents, and when the opportunity came to become Director at LA, it felt like the natural next step. If you had asked me 10 years ago if this was the goal, I would have laughed at you and told you to put those words back in your mouth.

Can you share a bit about how Piper's emergent curriculum influenced your approach to education and, ultimately, your leadership style?

Ooph. So many ways. Piper's approach is about allowing children to take the lead in their learning journey. First off, we view the children as competent. That already goes a long way. We are there to facilitate their exploration, curiosity, and questions. We’re not just giving them the answers, we teach them how to discover the world through their lens. That philosophy has become the cornerstone of my approach, fostering an environment where curiosity is celebrated and every child's voice is heard. It’s the same as a director. Our teachers are ah-mazing. They are innovative thinkers and will come up with solutions if something needs tweaking or revamping.

Navigating challenges is a part of any journey worth traveling. How have you tackled them, especially with the challenges of the past few years?

Flexibility and resilience are key. Obviously, the last few years tested us. There was a lot of pivoting. But what it also did was reinforce the importance of community, and that has always been the foundation of what we do. It’s not just a hot word. Our teachers and parents trust us, and we all work together. So, while there were a few bumpy years… thanks, COVID… we came out it stronger and better. It sounds cheesy, but it’s true. We all came together and did what we had to do to make it work.

Are there specific achievements or moments during your time at Piper that you're particularly proud of?

How long is this interview? (giggles).

Almost done, but then I’m going to follow you around for a month.

Nooooooo. Two things off the top of my head I’m most proud of… 1) I always tell prospective families we are not a one-size-fits-all approach and that we meet the children where they are. What proves that is we have families going to over 20 elementary schools in the Los Angeles area. From traditional, progressive, private, public, charter, you name it, they go. It’s a testament to what we do. And 2) Our retention of teachers in LA. LA opened in 2019, and we all know what happened shortly after. Most of our staff opened this campus with us, weathered an insane storm, and came out of it stronger and, most importantly, together. I am extremely proud of what our teachers have and continue to accomplish with these little learners. Piper’s been a journey, and I’m a journey girl.

As you lead Piper LA, are there exciting projects or initiatives that you're eager to share with the community?

I feel like we’re always branching out, trying new things, exploring partnerships, and evolving what we do here at Piper. I’m usually excited all around with everything we do, but we just started a collab with Wild Child that’s been a huge hit. They’re using our space to host their classes. Win, win. Also, fun fact: I first met the owners, Wai and Alli Sallas, when our children attended nursery school together back in the day and the seeds of Wild Child were just beginning. It’s kismet how full circle things become.

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As our talk came to a close, I could see her relief… not from being nervous as much as having a mind racing about the current priorities going on around us. We were bumping up on Piper’s “Back to School” night, so the playground was full of people who needed her direction, a vast array of food, warm lights cascading over the sandbox, and 80’s music bringing up the mood. Nicole's visionary journey, from the early days as a 2-year-old teacher to the helm of a new school in Los Angeles, paints a vivid portrait of the transformative impact education can have. Her dedication, fueled by Piper's enlightening philosophy, resonates in every initiative she spearheads, from outdoor play to community outreach. Nicole embodies the spirit of a true educational innovator, shaping not just young minds but entire communities. As she navigates her future, it's clear that her passion, innovation, and commitment to fostering a love for learning will continue to leave an indelible mark on this landscape she’s created.

Her focus is finally broken just over my shoulder. I turn to see a teacher acting out a turntable DJ and pointing to a corner. Nicole gives a thumbs up. The party is just getting started.