The Gardner School of Chicago - West Loop

How long have you been with TGS? 
Since December 2015

Roles Served with TGS:
I was initially hired as a lead teacher. After being in the classroom for several years, I was promoted to the role of Educational Support Specialist for the North Region. In this role, I supported and mentored TGS teachers and provided training, curriculum support, and classroom management skills. Most recently, I served as the Assistant Director for TGS Chicago-River North. I am excited to currently serve families in the role of Executive Director at our West Loop school.

What is your educational background? 
I received a Bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies. I choose this degree because I was able to have the flexibility to take courses in Early Childhood Education, as well as courses in administration and management.

What made you decide to have a career in education?
I worked in a child care center my last year in high school, and that is when I discovered my passion for early childhood education. I discovered that I can have a positive influence on the lives of young children and their families.

What makes you laugh about kids?
Kids have the wildest imaginations. They can take a simple object and turn it into a fun toy or game. They also have a way of speaking their minds…unfiltered. It is funny how they can be the most honest critics.

What do you love most about working with infants through the age of 5?
The child’s brain is a little sponge that soaks up everything. I love that the human brain can learn so much at such a young age—from teaching a child how to walk to learning how to read. My favorite part of working with children this young is that they learn through exploration and play.

What is your favorite part of the day at TGS?
My favorite part of the day at TGS is the morning drop-off. I get to say good morning to the kids and see their excited smiling faces as they walk into school. It warms my heart that kids are so excited about learning.

What do you love most about TGS?
I love more than just one thing about TGS! If I have to choose, though, I will say that TGS cares about your child’s learning. It is much more than a childcare center. It is truly an academically-focused place for students to learn. Each age group has hands-on curriculum, and the children learn so much through S.T.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) activities, play, and exploration.

What is your fondest memory of TGS thus far?
My fondest memory at TGS is Fall Fest. The laughter in the school hallways, families gathering, and supporting the community all adds up to a great night of family and friendship.

What inspires you?
My family is the number one thing that inspires me. My mom has worked in education since I was little, two of my sisters are teachers, and I also have many friends and family who are also in education. They all inspire me to be a great educator.

What is your passion or passions?
I am very passionate about early childhood education. In this field, we work with children at the start of their educational journey.

What does the term “Where Learning Begins” mean to you?
“Where Learning Begins” means that we help children understand and attain foundational academic, social, cognitive, and emotional skills that will follow them through life.

How important is early childhood education?
Early childhood education is the most important part of your child’s educational journey. It covers all areas of development in order to build a foundation for lifelong learning.

What would you tell new parents who are apprehensive about leaving their infant in the care of someone else for the first time? 
It can be difficult to leave your child in the care of someone else for the first time. We work closely with you to make you feel comfortable with your most precious gift in our care. Daily communication and pictures through our parent communications app are very helpful and comforting for parents. Most importantly, we make sure to meet all your infant’s needs, and they well loved during the day.