About Us

The critical early years of a child’s life should be filled with wonder and excitement! 

Locally owned and operated, founders Dr. Jennifer and Dr. Craig Pelissero launched Close Reach Academy to change the early childhood education industry. Due to their previous research and experiences, Dr. Jennifer and Dr. Craig have taken the best from all of the early childhood educational models and created experiential learning that focuses on engaging the mind and senses through hands-on experiences in every subject, which leads to great retention, independence, and suited for a wide range of differentiated learners. Their relational approach to early childhood learning creates long-lasting relationships between educators, students, and families, creating engaged learners who thrive in life. The exclusive Close Reach Academy experiential learning model is proven to create curious minds, a love for learning, and confident problem solvers where children feel seen, known, and valued every day! Close Reach Academy currently has campuses in Bothell, Kirkland, and Arlington, where you will see the founders and their family often.

Meet the team

Dr. Jennifer Pelissero

Executive Director
Working with children for over 14 years has inspired me in countless ways. I love teaching them, while also being taught by them. One of the best lessons I’ve learned from my students is to laugh and smile often. This is a lesson I get to take home to my husband and five children, as we have fun exploring the great outdoors, sailing, and playing sports together.

Rajitha Mechineni

Director of the Bothell Campus
We are thrilled to promote our Sea Stars teacher, Ms. Rajitha Mechineni, to the role of Director at CRA! Rajitha has been a dedicated team member of CRA Bothell for two years. She has a background in teaching and is also equipped with her MBA, which will perfectly combine her passion for education and business management in this new role. 

Tashia Weaver

Director of the Arlington Campus
My love for educating began almost nine years ago with my passion being an early childhood educator. Early childhood educators play an essential role in their students' lives, laying the foundation for a lifelong love of learning. Outside of work, I am a mom of three boys. We love staying busy doing family adventures and enjoying a calm movie night at home.

Dr. Craig Pelissero

Director of Operations
As the Director of Operations, I am able to pursue my passions to nurture and support children and families while promoting the best educational and care experience for students, educators, and families.
My deep hope is that every student knows they are a gift to the world because of who they are.