Camp Pilgrim Staff

Preschool Lead Teacher & Camp Director: Julie Bedard

Julie has served as a classroom teacher and Early Childhood Director for over 20 years, the last 3 at Pilgrim. She has a Masters of Education in Early Childhood Curriculum and Instruction.

Her education and experience has taught her that young children learn best through direct experience with objects and people. It is the job of the teacher to set up the learning environment and schedule in ways that lead the children to learning outcomes. She prefers the term "intellectual" to "academic" in that children not only learn facts but also how to think on their own and solve problems. 

In her spare time, Julie enjoys reading, doing puzzles, hiking and traveling to visit her children and grandchildren. She also serves as the organist at Pilgrim.

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified, do not be discouraged for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9

Elementary Lead Teacher: Kaylyn Jordaan

Mrs. Jordaan, a passionate educator with a rich multicultural background, was born in Zimbabwe and immigrated to the United States at the age of five. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Education from Southern Oregon University and is completing her Masters in Education. With four years of teaching experience, Mrs. Jordaan has a philosophy centered on creating a student-focused learning environment. She aims to inspire and empower her students to become the best versions of themselves academically, physically, socially, and emotionally, fostering curiosity, creativity, and a lifelong passion for learning.

Personally, Mrs. Jordaan has been married for three years and is a proud pet parent to an adorable cat named Samantha. She enjoys reading, baking, spending time with family and friends, and exploring new places. Her love for travel has taken her around the world, including two years of teaching in South Korea. Now residing in Beaverton, Oregon, she is excited to discover local attractions and share these experiences with her students, embarking on an exciting journey of learning and discovery together.

I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.  Philippians 4:13

Assistant Teacher : Lydia Thygeson

Lydia studied graphic design at The Art Institute of Portland and enjoys creative projects of all sorts. She has also worked as an assisted living caregiver and child care aide. She has worked at Pilgrim for 4 years and is amused by how much the preschoolers transform during one year.

“God our Savior, who wants all men to be saved and to come to knowledge of the truth. For there is one mediator between God and Men, the man Jesus Christ.”

1 Timothy 2:4-5