Acorn Team (ages 0 -20 months)
Danielle
My name is Danielle and I've been married for 17 years to my husband, Jason. I have two daughters, Lilia (18) and Olivia (15). I've been working with kids since I was 16 years old and started in my first day care center. After taking a break to stay home and raise my kids, I worked as a paraprofessional in the school system for 6 years before going back to school to get my Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education - which I completed in 2023. Working with children has always been a passion of mine and I make it a point to advocate for and treat the students in my care the same way I would my own.
Taylor
My name is Taylor, and I have spent the past 10 years working with children and families in various roles, including as a teacher and social worker. I am a big believer in play-based learning, caring for the whole child, and supporting family resilience. I recently moved to Chicago from Colorado and am excited to explore the city, meet new people, and see all that it has to offer! Outside of work, I enjoy spending time outdoors and finding nature wherever it can be found in the city. At home, I’m kept on my toes by a sweet dog and two chaotic cats!
Naomi
Naomi has been working with children since 2019. and loves that she can watch them learn and grow every single day. She is the oldest and has a younger sister and when she's not at work, Naomi enjoys taking pictures, going on new adventures and creating new memories with her family and boyfriend, She loves to draw, fashion, and anything art related! Naomi prides herself in staying positive no matter the situation!
Max
Hello! I am Max Petersen and I am an assistant teacher in the Acorn classroom at Oak Park Friends School. I have worked in ECE for the past four years in both lead roles and as an assistant. This is my first time working full-time in an infant classroom and I'm excited to get to know your children!
Maddie
Maddie
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!
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.