Danica Pesio
Director/AM Assistant

I moved to La Pine with my family in 2022 from a small town near the Oregon Coast area. My oldest son is a graduate from Rising Stars, while my youngest son is a current student. My boys love the Rising Stars Program, as well as my husband and I. In my free time you can find me at my sons’ sporting events, reading or baking a sweet treat. As a family we love camping and quiet movie nights on the couch.

Laura Palmer
Lead Teacher

I grew up in the Portland area, but always lived on the outskirts in small communities. I moved to the LaPine area in early spring of 1999 and started a family. Both of my children, a daughter and a son, are graduates of Rising Stars Preschool. As my children became more independent, I chose to return to college. I received a Master of Arts in Teaching from George Fox University. I am honored to be given the opportunity to work with this amazing organization to guide the young children in our community. Being a preschool teacher allows me to start these wondrous students on a path of a love for learning. Throughout my life I have had a menagerie of pets that have included dogs, cats, raccoons, chickens, goats and temporary care of opossums and owls, just to name a few! Currently there are just 2 dogs, 2 cats and 2 geckos living within our home. In my spare time I enjoy hiking, kayaking, road trips and going to the beach. I cherish anytime I can get together with family and friends to just hang out and laugh!

Deeane Aalmo
PM Teacher’s Assistant

My husband, our oldest son who has Autism, and I moved to La Pine in 2022 from Orting, Washington. We moved here to be closer to our daughter and two grandsons who live in Redmond. We lived in the same place for 35 years and I worked at Orting Primary School from 2006-2022 as a Title 1 Reading Specialist. I taught grades Pre-K through 3rd. My main focus was small group, intensive, reading intervention for struggling readers. I also have a strong background in Special Education. I love teaching at Rising Stars Preschool. The staff, students, and parents are amazing. I spend most of my spare time with my grandsons exploring all that Oregon has to offer. I also enjoy spending time at home with my horse, two dogs and cat.