Carol Meagher Executive Director
Carol Meagher has served as the Executive Director of KidZone Museum since 2004, leading the museum’s strategy, fund development, education, and operations. With a master’s degree in Therapeutic Recreation and a background in Fine Art, Carol brings a unique blend of creative skills and an understanding of children with diverse abilities to the museum’s innovative programs. Her studies in Spanish language at the Middlebury College Language School and Mexican culture at the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, empower her to actively support the museum’s outreach staff. Recognized for her outstanding contributions, Carol is a recipient of the Ruby Award from Soroptimist International of Truckee Donner. You may contact Carol at info@kidzonemuseum.org.
Jen Parker Philanthropy Officer
Jen works on donor development and donor communication for the museum. Before joining the museum staff, she served as a member of the museum’s board for five years. She used to bring her young children to play at the museum; they have since grown to college-age. Jen received her BS from UC Davis and worked for the Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children before becoming a stay-at-home mom. She loves the idea of play as a child’s work, ensuring that all museum programs and exhibits are filled with hands-on, inquiry-based learning. Jen has volunteered as an English language tutor for the Nevada County Read Up! adult literacy program for more than 10 years.
Mayra Colmenarez Museum Director
For more than a decade, Mayra has adeptly overseen the museum’s operations, orchestrating innovative events, managing detailed accounting, and providing continuous guidance to the staff. Her role is pivotal in shaping the museum’s strategic direction. Mayra’s connection with KidZone Museum goes beyond her professional responsibilities. Her children grew up at the museum, cherishing the diverse opportunities it offers for free play and hands-on learning.
Irene Weit Senior Museum Operations Supervisor
Irene oversees daily operations at the museum, managing front desk duties, coordinating volunteers, and maintaining facilities. Her creative touch extends to photography, painting, and refurbishing murals, contributing to the museum’s vibrant atmosphere. Starting as a volunteer, Irene spent three years as an independent contractor, providing photography services and supporting teachers. Dedicated to the KidZone Museum mission, she holds a BA from Goethe University and retired from a 25-year career in Interior Design in the San Francisco Bay area. Irene and her husband Claus, a dedicated museum volunteer, now call Truckee home.
Nataly Zarate Community Advocacy Director
Nataly passionately advocates for underserved children and families, ensuring their awareness of our scholarship programs. She coordinates essential services for families and is actively engaged in community meetings. With a lifelong connection to the museum, she brings expertise in customer service for both Spanish and English-speaking families, contributing to the development of innovative learning opportunities. A mother of four, Nataly and her children enjoy the museum together. She is honored with the Chris Ballin Award from the Community Collaborative of the Tahoe Truckee Community Foundation, which recognizes her advocacy for cultural competency, equality, and social justice in our community. The award is named in memory of the 1980s founder of La Comunidad Unida.
Andrea Smoot Museum Engagement Officer
Andrea serves as the Museum Engagement Officer for KidZone Museum, providing direct support to Philanthropy Officer, Jen Parker. A KidZone Museum member since 2018, Andrea and her family actively enjoy the museum. Her passion for serving the Truckee community is evident, and she embraces every opportunity to explore all aspects of this grassroots nonprofit. Andrea appreciates that KidZone allows her to merge her dedication to helping others with addressing the inequities faced by children in our community.
Carla Boscacci Community Advocate
Carla, our vibrant and bilingual Community Advocate at KidZone Museum, merges her background in Early Childhood Development with a passion for fostering connections. Collaborating with partner organizations, she innovates solutions for community needs and raises awareness. As a dedicated member of Cambio with Exploratorium, Carla applies this knowledge to craft engaging STEM programs for our Latinx community and develop a cutting-edge STEM curriculum for our upcoming facility.
Annie Guerra Manager of Human Resources and Guest Services
As our dynamic Manager of Human Resources and Guest Services at KidZone Museum, Annie seamlessly blends her expertise in recreation, parks, and tourism administration with a commitment to creating a positive and supportive work environment. Steering both HR functions and the guest services team, Annie ensures that every visitor enjoys a memorable experience. Beyond the museum, you’ll find her on the tennis court, camping under the stars, or sailing the lake with her family. With a passion for work/play balance, Annie infuses KidZone Museum with joy, making it a community of learning and laughter. Her dedication shapes the museum into a place where both team members and visitors feel a sense of inclusion.
Alyssa Arington Museum Guest Services
Our dedicated team member in Guest Services, Alyssa, joined KidZone Museum driven by a passion for science education and outreach, particularly in the realms of conservation and marine science. Raised between Truckee and Santiago, Chile, Alyssa brings a global perspective to her role. With a Marine Biology background, and experience at the Santa Barbara Sea Center and Humboldt State Natural History Museum, she enriches our team with valuable insights. Alyssa’s enthusiasm for all things ocean-related – with a special fondness for sharks – adds a fascinating dimension to our KidZone family.
Conner Museum Guest Services
Conner is a passionate student from the University of Nevada, Reno, who is drawn to KidZone Museum by his love for working with children. As a key team member, Conner not only ensures a smooth check-in process, but also contributes his technical skills to address any challenges that may arise. His dedication to creating an engaging environment reflects the vibrant and welcoming spirit of KidZone Museum, making it a place where both kids and their families can feel exceptional.
Spin Shaffer Volunteer
Spin Shaffer has been a volunteer at KidZone Museum since 2004, providing IT and mechanical maintenance support for the museum. He also assists with exhibit design and construction as needed.
Elias Alvarez Intern
Meet Elias, a heartwarming presence at our museum who is dedicated and remarkably precise. His incredible sweetness and affectionate nature infuse warmth into every encounter. An inherent artist, his talent radiates through his creations. Elias’s joyful spirit effortlessly brings laughter and playfulness to the room, endearing him to the little ones at KidZone Museum. His hugs are nothing short of amazing, embodying the essence of his personality. With his unwavering commitment and accuracy, Elias is an integral part of our museum family, where his boundless dedication shines.
Theodore “Teddy” Parelius Intern
A true beacon of positivity, Teddy’s presence radiates hope and kindness, coupled with an ambitious dedication to his duties. His artwork weaves a narrative of compassion and love, inspiring smiles and uplifting all who witness it. Teddy’s outgoing nature makes him an instant hit with our young visitors. His boundless energy and an open heart forge unforgettable memories with every child he engages. Teddy stands as a living testament to the transformative power of kindness. His cherished place within our team is a privilege we hold dear.
Helen Pelster Volunteer
Helen, a dedicated museum volunteer, brings a unique blend of talents to KidZone Museum. As a skilled photographer, computer scientist, and robotics teacher and camp director, she enriches our programs with creativity and technical expertise. A proud mother and brilliant museum advisor, Helen’s passion for learning and innovation shines through in all her contributions.
Accounting Support: Supporting Strategies
Human Resource Services: Truckee HR
Legal Counsel: Steve Gross, Porter Simon
Web, Social Media, and Marketing Support: Alpen Lily Web Studio
