Leadership & Support Team Details

I have been involved in the world of early childhood for over 35 years and have watched it evolve into what it is today. I have completed several early childhood courses and credentials. As you can well imagine I have served in several different positions over the course of 35 plus years, including kitchen, bus driving, teaching, and directing. When I think about the plethora of families I have had the privilege to know and share life with, some of whom I am still friends with today, others whom I knew only for a season, I am so very thankful. Life in early childhood is unexpected and busy and the key is flexibility! My husband and I have been married for 41 years, we have 3 children, 2 of whom are married. So far we have 4 grandchildren and counting! I especially enjoy spending time with my family, near and far, traveling, photographing nature, and will go out of my way for a beautiful sunrise or sunset!

I attended the University of Wisconsin Whitewater where I received a Bachelor of Science in Education: Physical Education License Pre-K thru 12th Grade. I served as a long term substitute at the elementary and middle school in the Hartford School District and as a Physical Education and Special Education Teacher in the Milwaukee Public School District. I also served in 3 other summer programs for 4 years prior to coming to Kids Junction. I started working at Kids Junction in 2006 and have really enjoyed working with the staff and the children in our school-age programs!

I graduated from Beloit College in 2014 with a bachelors degree in biology and a minor in music. Right out of college I began working at a camp leading various outdoor education courses for nearly 2 years. From there I worked at a childcare center in Mount Horeb for 1 1/2 years where I earned my lead teacher qualifications. I have been at Kids Junction since 2020 where I have enjoyed hanging out with the school-agers and teaching music classes to the littles. In my free time I enjoy spending time with my husband and daughter. Together we enjoy going for walks, spending time up north and playing in our yard.

I have an associate degree in early childhood education from North Central Technical College. I have been working with children since I was in middle school. Babysitting, after school programs, youth groups, and numerous missions trips are just a few of my valued experiences in the early childhood field. I have been with Kids Junction since the fall of 2006. In our free time, my husband and I enjoy exploring all of the fun things the Madison area has to offer with our young son!

I graduated from New Glarus High School in 2004. I’ve babysat throughout my middle and high school years. I’ve also been in the restaurant industry as a general assistant manager. Now I love being part of the team here at Kids Junction. In my free time I enjoy spending time with my daughter Zoey and my family. I enjoy camping, canoeing, fishing and anything outdoors.

I graduated from Madison Area Technical College with a liberal arts degree. I have worked for a preschool ever since I graduated high school, whether it be in the classroom, kitchen, or office. I started at Kids Junction in 2005 and in 2007 I joined the billing department. I have been married since 2006 and we have 3 children. We love going to Costco and getting samples or going swimming at our local pool. I also enjoy crafting, baking, and party planning.

After graduating high school I went directly into the work force getting certified for different things along the way. This began with nursing home certifications in 2015, to bio tech material management, to a very rewarding master gardener certification in 2020, and all the way to a certificate to serve and prepare food on Alaskan fishing vessels in 2021. I’m very grateful to have learned so many different skills while saving to fund my eventual pursuit of a family and consumer sciences teaching degree. My childcare career began at 12 years old babysitting for many families at my church. This led me to nanny all through high school. Having grown up second eldest in a large family, child care comes naturally to me. In my free time I love to travel and have now visited all 66 Wisconsin state parks as well as nearly all 50 states. Next I want to go abroad! Travel is my means of inspiration for all my other passions which include gardening, painting, writing, singing and hiking. One always feeds another in some beautiful way.

I have taken what was previously known as assistant teacher and lead teacher courses. I previously worked at Campus For Kids Daycare for 9 years where I had a variety of roles; School-Age Teacher, 4K Teacher, Administrative Assistant to the Director, and Assistant Director. For 12 years I was the office administrator at Ridgeway Church and Sunny Kids Day Care. Part of this role was to assist in overseeing staff, daily counts, parent tours, staff interviews, and managing maintenance schedules.

I love to cook, spend time with my granddaughter, and go on adventures with friends. I have a cat named Gracie that brings me joy and is addicted to her greenie treats. I love to read. I get excited to hold a new book in my hands and learn what the author is teaching.

I graduated from Malone University in Canton, Ohio with a Bachelor of Arts in Youth Ministry and a minor in Business Administration after dabbling in chemistry, social work, psychology, philosophy, and art. I have been working with youth and children since 2006 in churches in Ohio, Pennsylvania and Northern Ireland. Most of my work and experience is from working with children from Kindergarten to 9th grade in a camp ministry setting for 10 years. I have been blessed more in life than I deserve. I have lived overseas and visited several countries. I have an education and a great family. I love working with children, exploring nature, hiking, reading, cooking, and spending time with friends.

I have taken courses in electronics and computer networking. I was in a touring band in the early 2000’s. After this I worked in customer service for many years researching and selling pro audio service parts. I’m married and have 3 kids. I enjoy spending time with the family and playing guitar when I can.