Kathy Parham
Co-Founder and Executive Director

Playhouse Executive Director and Founder Kathy Parham has been playing at The Children’s Playhouse since 2002. Attending a meeting of moms at a coffee shop in May 2002 with a new baby in tow set into motion a dream project that became her life’s work. Six months later the High Country’s first and only children’s museum, The Children’s Playhouse, opened with $5,000 in the bank, a six month lease, and a dream of delighting children and supporting parents.Working at The Playhouse has taught Kathy many skills from unclogging toilets and listening with compassion to planning events, recruiting volunteers, and designing exhibits. Parham has two children, now grown, and a master’s degree in English.

Ellen Lewis
Director of Visitor Services & Programs

Our Director of Visitor Services and Programs, Ellen Lewis, joined The Children's Playhouse in May of 2021 as we were about to reopen from the COVID closure. Prior to her work here, Ellen was a Montessori teacher and administrator for over 10 years. She worked with children from the ages of 3 to 6 years old. She holds a bachelor's degree in business from Wake Forest University and a Master's degree in Montessori Education from Loyola University. She has also received a graduate certificate in Mind, Brain, and Teaching from Johns Hopkins University. This program connects neuroscience research with practical applications. Also,she is certified in Triple P and Positive Discipline parent education. Ellen loves seeing children's smiling faces everyday at The Playhouse and connecting with parents and caregivers.

Katharine Schultz
Operations & Finances Manager

The Finance Manager is responsible for the financial records of The Children’s Playhouse including payroll, making a weekly deposit, maintaining accurate financial records, reconciling accounts, paying bills and taxes, and preparing financial reports for the Executive Director and the Board of Directors. They are also responsible for our grant, membership, attendance, background checks, and insurance records.