Preschool Staff – DPCC

Teaching and supervising at the Pre-K level is truly my calling! My journey in early childhood education began 17 years ago with the Fun-Etics program, and I’m proud to still be teaching and supervising that program today. I joined Learning Step Preschool in 2018, and in 2022, I was honored to step into the role of Preschool/Youth Program Supervisor.

I love watching young learners develop a love for learning, both in Fun-Etics and Pre-K. Before my time with the Lockport Park District, I spent 8 years teaching Special Education after earning my Bachelor’s Degree from NIU.

On a personal note, I have three adult children who I love spending time with. They’ve all worked for the Park District in some capacity and have enjoyed their experiences just as much as I have! In my free time, you’ll find me hiking, running, reading, and spending time outdoors in nature.

Teaching is what I love to do, and there’s nothing more rewarding than seeing each child grow and develop throughout the school year. I’ve been teaching preschool since 2013, and for all 11 of those years, I’ve had the privilege of teaching at Lockport Township Park District. It’s been such a joy to be part of this community.

I’m passionate about creating a warm, engaging environment where kids feel excited to learn and confident to explore. Watching their little personalities blossom and their skills grow is one of the best parts of my job.

When I’m not in the classroom, I love spending my free time with my husband and family. I also love being outdoors – hiking, painting, crocheting, and soaking in the beauty of nature are some of my favorite ways to unwind and recharge.

This is my second year with the Lockport Park District, and I’ve truly enjoyed being part of this wonderful community. I first started working with the Fun-Etics program, where I co-taught 2- and 3-year-olds in the All By Myself program. This year, I’ve had the exciting opportunity to join Learning Step Preschool as a co-teacher in the 3-year-old classroom.

Working with young children is my passion—I love their curiosity, their eagerness to explore, and their adventurous spirit. Before joining Lockport Park District, I spent eight years in a Montessori setting in Lisle and Joliet, where I gained valuable experience nurturing young learners.

Outside of teaching, I cherish spending time with my husband, our two boys, and our dog. In my free time, I enjoy knitting, crocheting, cooking, and getting lost in a good book.

This is my sixth year at the preschool and my first year serving as the lead teacher in the Purple Room. Teaching has become one of my greatest passions, and I feel so lucky to work with children during such an exciting time in their development. One of my favorite parts of teaching is watching the kids learn, build confidence, and grow throughout the year. Being a part of their journey and helping prepare them for kindergarten is a privilege I truly treasure.

When I’m not in the classroom, I enjoy spending my free time doing puzzles, watching movies, and creating lasting memories with my loved ones. I’m also a proud dog parent and love soaking up every moment with my furry companion. Teaching and connecting with others, whether it’s students, family, or friends, is something I hold close to my heart.

I have over 14 years of experience in early childhood education and have always had a passion for working with young learners. Before joining the preschool classroom in September 2023, I spent several years teaching in the Park District’s Fun-Etics program, where I loved helping children develop foundational skills through engaging activities.

Watching my students grow, learn, and thrive is incredibly rewarding, and I truly believe that teaching is where I belong—it’s been my dream since I was little! I love being part of a community that fosters learning, growth, and fun, both in and out of the classroom!

Outside of the classroom, my world revolves around my family. My husband and I have three amazing boys, ages 17, 16, and 10, who keep us busy with their sports. Whether it’s football, baseball, or basketball, you can usually find us on the sidelines cheering them on.

I absolutely love working with young children and helping them discover the world around them through play and hands-on activities. This is my third year teaching Enrichment and my first year in the Purple Room at The Learning Step Preschool.

I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education from Deln and previously worked at Bright Horizons in Downers Grove. My passion is creating a fun, engaging environment where children can grow, explore, and develop a lifelong love of learning.

When I’m not in the classroom, I enjoy reading, traveling, and spending time with my husband and our three children. Watching my own kids grow and learn inspires me every day in my teaching.

I have always had a passion for teaching! My passion only grew stronger as I entered college and then afterwards when I began teaching full time. I have over 28 years of experience teaching Early Childhood. I have been teaching in Lockport for 22 years this Fall and 18 of those years I have had the privilege of teaching preschool at Lockport Township Park District.

Teaching preschool is definitely my gift because it’s what I love to do! I love everything about teaching preschool, especially watching my class transform​ into confident young students. I love giving preschoolers an excitement for learning.

My husband and I have three wonderful adult children, one grandson, and one little dog. I enjoy spending my free time with my family making memories. My husband and I love to travel and are very active in our church.

I absolutely love teaching at Learning Step Preschool! With 14 years of Early Childhood experience, I’ve had the privilege of working with amazing children and families. My journey with the park district started as a teacher in the Fun-Etics program, and in January 2022, I transitioned to this wonderful preschool.

Working with young children allows me to embrace my silly and playful side while fostering their excitement for learning. Watching them grow, discover, and develop new skills is such a rewarding experience, and I feel truly blessed to do what I love every single day.

My husband and I are proud parents to two young adult children, ages 17 and 20. In my free time, I enjoy being with my family and cheering on my daughter as she plays lacrosse.

This is my second year teaching in the Enrichment Program with the Lockport Park District, and I absolutely love it! Being able to work with young learners and watch their excitement, creativity, and curiosity shine through as they learn through play and social interaction is truly rewarding. Before joining the Park District, I worked at Kensington School, but I then took time to be a stay-at-home mom to my four amazing kids, who are now 13, 9, 6, and 4.

Outside of the classroom, my world revolves around my family. My husband and I love spending time with our kids, whether we’re playing outside, having movie nights, or cheering them on at their many sporting events. Watching them grow and thrive reminds me every day why I love working with children and helping them learn in a fun and engaging way!

I absolutely love working with young children and helping them discover the world around them through play and hands-on activities. This is my third year teaching Enrichment and my first year in the Purple Room at The Learning Step Preschool.

I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education from Deln and previously worked at Bright Horizons in Downers Grove. My passion is creating a fun, engaging environment where children can grow, explore, and develop a lifelong love of learning.

When I’m not in the classroom, I enjoy reading, traveling, and spending time with my husband and our three children. Watching my own kids grow and learn inspires me every day in my teaching.

This is my first year here at the Learning Step Preschool. I am having so much fun in the Enrichment room! After receiving my degree in Elementary Education and a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction, I taught Kindergarten for many years. After having my two sons, I was lucky enough to be able to stay home with them. As they advanced through school, I was involved with their schools PTO’s, where I helped plan events and fundraisers. Now that they are in high school, I’m excited to be back in the teaching field!

Teaching has always been a passion of mine and I already feel that the Learning Step Preschool is home! I’ve met so many wonderful children, families and coworkers! I look forward to seeing my students every day and watching them grow and learn.

During my free time, my husband and I are busy cheering on our son’s, Ayden and Ryan, at their football, baseball and volleyball games! We also love to travel and spend time with our family and friends. ​

I view teaching as one of the most rewarding careers that one can have. Post-graduation in India, I taught Elementary level for 2 years. I then earned an opportunity to teach undergraduate and postgraduate students for 3 years.

I have been with the Lockport Park District since February 2024. I was hired as a preschool substitute then eased into a new role as a teaching assistant.

Watching, teaching, and helping young children learn and grow is one of my favorite parts of this profession. I do sincerely believe that these energetic young children do teach us, the adults, important lessons in some way or the other.

On a personal note, I am married and have 2 boys, a 12-year-old and 8 year-old who keeps me busy with various school activities. My favorite pastimes include but not limited to cooking, reading and gardening in the summer.