Katie Brandow, LCSW

Founder / Owner

Katie has been involved with School of Enrichment since it opened its doors in 2007. Born and raised in Oregon, she has lived here her entire adult life. She is mom to two daughters and genuinely believes that early childhood experiences in a supportive environment teaches socialization, problem solving and coping skills that create equipped children and eventually adults who are ready to take on the world productively, healthfully and positively.

Katie spent 13 years working in the non-profit mental health sector working with families in youth advocacy, child protection, family preservation and reunification services and medical social work. Katie is fascinated by brain development, developmental stages and the social emotional development of children. Katie is passionate about supporting parents in finding trusted care with enriching experiences so that parents can maintain a healthy life balance and feel in their core being that their kids are safe and enriched.Katie’s experiences include facilitation of Early Words and Darkness to Light courses and presenting evidence based parenting education programs for the Family Resource Center and The Commission on Children and Families. Katie worked throughout Central Oregon with teenage girls in mentoring programs as well as providing community trainings on implementing parenting techniques.

Katie attended the University of Oregon where she received a Bachelor’s of Arts in Social Science with an emphasis in Sociology and later received her Master’s in Social Work from Portland State University. In early 2007, Katie and the surrounding community recognized the need for a quality, enriching and balanced early childhood program in Bend. After several months of planning with learning specialists, researchers, social workers and early childhood education professionals, they opened the doors to an excited community of parents who were equally eager to have their child participate.

Katie coordinates admissions and operations, ensures the philosophy is adhered to and that the program continues to exceed each families goals. Her role is largely behind the scenes but she always appreciates her on-site involvement. She gratefully acknowledges the contribution of community partners who have brought invaluable insight, professional advice, and generosity in spirit that helped shape School of Enrichment’s foundational years.

In addition to leading the School of Enrichment, Katie loves to travel and attributes travel as her best educational experiences. She also successfully operates a nutrition and wellness company. You’ll often find her exercising, on her yoga mat, adventuring with her family, cooking and baking or on a trail hiking in this beautiful state.