The Gardner School of Chicago - Lincoln Park

How long have you been with TGS?
I have been with TGS since February 2020.

Roles served with TGS:
I began at TGS West Loop as the lead teacher for the Enchantment (four-year-old) classroom. I was then promoted to the role of enrichment coordinator and then assistant director. I am now currently serving as the director at TGS Lincoln Park!

What is your educational background?
I earned my bachelor’s degree in psychology with a minor in sociology from The University of Illinois at Chicago. After teaching for a few years, I decided to continue my education by completing a master’s degree. I earned my master’s degree in early childhood administration from National Louis University.

What made you decide to have a career in education?
Ever since I was little, I dreamed of becoming a teacher. While I was completing my bachelor’s degree, I decided to work as a half-day preschool teacher and quickly fell in love with teaching. Once I graduated, I decided that I wanted to teach preschool full-time. I absolutely love working with children because of their genuine curiosity and eagerness to learn about the world around them.

What makes you laugh about kids?
I love listening to the stories children tell and the dialogue they use during make-believe play. They always come up with some of the silliest ideas!

What do you love most about working with infants through the age of 5?
I love watching them hit their developmental milestones! As early childhood educators, we have the unique ability to see children prosper from the stages of early infancy through the pre-kindergarten stage. We are present for a lot of their “firsts” and it is truly amazing to see how much growth happens at TGS in their first five years.

What is your favorite part of the day at TGS?
My favorite part of the day at TGS is morning drop-off. I love being able to see all of the families and children as they come into the building each morning. I have the opportunity to greet everyone and build connections with our families.

What do you love most about TGS?
I love the team mentality that we share. Managers, teachers, parents, and students are all on the same team, and our main goal is to create a fun-filled learning environment where each student has the opportunity to be successful. We band together through parent-teacher conferences, staff meetings, and day-to-day interactions to help create the best place for children to learn.

What is your fondest memory of TGS thus far?
There are so many great memories that it is hard to choose just one! Every year, I look forward to our Camp Gardner visitors! Each week during the summer, we have a special vendor come into TGS to do an activity with the children. My personal favorite is our magical bubble show. It is always such a unique experience for the children, and you can see the pure joy it brings them.

What inspires you?
My community! Everyone comes from a different background, and I find it exciting to learn and gain inspiration from those around me.

What is your passion or passions?
I am very passionate about utilizing my creative outlets. I love art, crafting, graphic design, and photography.

What does the term “Where Learning Begins” mean to you?
I believe that learning begins at birth. Learning is constant, and children learn through their everyday experiences. At TGS, we are here to help inspire young minds and build the necessary foundations to help them grow.

How important is early childhood education?
Early childhood education is a crucial part of preparing children with the skills they need for elementary school. Being in an early childhood setting allows children to not only grow academically but also to build important social and problem-solving skills.

What would you tell new parents who are apprehensive about leaving their infant in the care of someone else for the first time?
It’s normal to be nervous! At TGS, we aim to help make the transition as easy as possible. With regular updates through Brightwheel, a first-day phone call, and our classroom live streams, we strive to help parents feel comfortable and involved in their child’s day. There is typically an adjustment period for both the child and the family, but with our well-trained staff and regular parent-teacher communication, you can be assured that your little one is in good hands!