Acorn Team (ages 0 -20 months)
Ashuntetta
Ashuntetta
Ashuntetta
My name is Ashuntetta, and I am thrilled to join OPFS! I was born in Chicago and raised in Oak Park, where I graduated from OPRF. I am currently completing my degree in Early Childhood Education at National Louis University. I have over a decade of experience working with children in daycares, after-school programs, and preschool settings.
I love creating hands-on, engaging learning experiences that spark curiosity in young children. Outside of work, I enjoy reading, journaling, cooking, and spending time with my children. I’m excited to be part of the OPFS community and connect with families.
Maddie
Ashuntetta
Ashuntetta
My name is Maddie, and I am happily joining you all to continue my journey in early childhood development, and further my skills in childcare. I studied psychology at Purdue University NW, and intend to go back eventually to continue my education. I feel it is important to be a good role model and support system for young, developing children, and pride myself on being just that. I love to get to know and understand others, and look forward to meeting all of you!
Kiana
Ashuntetta
Kiana
Kiana is excited to join the OPFS community! From Tahlequah, Oklahoma, she earned her CNA and phlebotomist certifications while in high school. She believes in facilitating hands-on immersive experiences for the kids– Having gone to a Cherokee Immersion School, she believes building community is the pillar in development. Growing up, she helped take care of the community's children, eventually going into babysitting for her younger siblings and others. She has 10 siblings and likes to play the clarinet and saxophone in her free time, as well as go on hikes!
Seedling Team (Ages 1 to 2.5 years)
Sarah
Destini
Destini
I was born and raised in Chicago, but have called Oak Park home for the last 13 years. I am a mom of three children who keep me busy with their active schedules of extra curricular activities. Prior to having kids, I worked in Early Childhood for over 10 years, mostly with toddlers and 2 year olds. Having had the pleasure of being home with my kids for the last 11 years, I am looking forward to returning to the field. I graduated from Denison University where I obtained a BA in Psychology. I have a passion for the outdoors and always love a good adventure. You will always find me, and my kids; playing baseball, hiking the dunes of Indiana, traveling to National Parks, swimming, paddle boarding, kayaking or biking. When it comes to being a mother and a teacher I agree that, “Learning is their journey. Let them navigate. Push them to explore. Watch them discover. Encourage their questions. Allow them to struggle. Support their thinking. Let them Fly.”
Destini
Destini
Destini
My name is Destini Martinez and I am so happy to be joining the OPFS team. I have a background in child development and family services and have worked with kids for about 7 years. I love to explore the city, spend time with friends and family, and cook in my free time. I look forward to getting to know all of you!
Ellen
Ellen
Ellen
Ellen joined OPFS in fall of 2021. An Illinoisian for 20 years, Wisconsin is her original home. As a child she was in the 4H club and her proudest moment was having both a grand champion rooster and rabbit in the local fair. She is an extreme animal lover! This passion later led her to become a dog trainer. She has an awesome, loving family which includes her 6-year old daughter Aniyah, her son Caelen who is in the Acorn Room, a crazy dog and 2 cats.. Ellen adores children and is excited to work with the Seedling Room and their families.
Laeny
Ellen
Ellen
Laeny has been working with children for 3 1/2 years and enjoys every second of it. In her free time she likes to draw, write, listen to music, play video games and go shopping. Laeny has been working with our Maple room team since 2021.