Meet Our Ashburn Family.
Every member of our team was chosen for their experience, their warmth, and their genuine love for what they do. They are the heart of The Ashburn School.
Yelena Billias
Co-Founder & COO
Hi, I’m Yelena — and I’m so glad you found us!
As a mom of two (with our second baby girl due this August), I know how much it matters where your child spends their day. I wanted a school where my kids would feel safe, loved, and genuinely excited to walk through the door each morning. I couldn’t find exactly what I was looking for — so I built it.
I was born in Russia, where the arts and education were deeply woven into everyday life. Growing up surrounded by music and creativity showed me early on just how much those experiences can shape a child’s confidence, curiosity, and love of learning — and honestly, that magic has never left me. It shows up in everything we do here.
One thing close to my heart — both as a mom and as an educator — is emotional intelligence. More than almost anything, I want to raise kids who are grounded, kind, and confident in who they are. That value doesn’t stay at home; it’s woven into everything we do at The Ashburn School too.
When I’m not at school, you’ll find my family and me skiing, traveling, and soaking up the outdoors. That same sense of curiosity and adventure is something I bring into everything we create for the children in our community.
My biggest hope is that every child who comes through our doors gets to experience childhood the way it’s meant to be — joyful, curious, and full of wonder.
I can’t wait to meet your family!
Warmly, Yelena
Susannah Mengel
Director
Hello Ashburn Families!
I have worked in Early Childhood Education for over fifteen years, serving both in the classroom and in administrative leadership roles. I hold a Master’s degree in Applied Developmental Psychology from George Mason University and am deeply committed to creating high-quality, developmentally appropriate learning environments for young children.
I grew up in Northern Virginia and currently live in Ashburn with my husband and our two children, who attend the local public schools. As a parent, I understand how important it is to find a school that is clean, safe, and engaging—one where children feel supported as they learn, play, and grow.
I am excited to lead The Ashburn School of Early Education and look forward to partnering with families as part of each child’s early education journey!
Welcome to The Ashburn School Family!
Susannah
Kara Spencer
Assistant Director
Hi there!
My name is Kara and I am thrilled to be the Assistant Director at The Ashburn School of Early Education! I have a master’s degree in Applied Developmental Psychology from George Mason University where I focused on social-emotional development and the teacher-child dynamic in preschool classrooms. I have been working with children of all ages and abilities for the last 12 years.
Most recently, I was a preschool teacher at BeanTree Learning, prior to that I was the Social Learning Specialist, Interim Head of School, and Camp Director at The Auburn School, a private special education school in Chantilly, VA, where I taught social-emotional skills to children K-12 as well as managed day-to-day operations of the school. I believe that children deserve a nurturing place to be themselves surrounded by loving teachers who help facilitate a love of learning and provide them with the tools they need to succeed throughout their life.
Outside of school you’ll find me spending time with my husband and daughter. We love being outdoors, going to concerts, and spending time with extended family!
See you soon!
Kara
Interested in joining our team?
We’re always looking for passionate educators who love what they do.