My name is Elaina Dewey and I am starting my first year at TLC Preschool.  I was born and raised in Evergreen and music is a big part of my life. I am fortunate to live within walking distance of Red Rocks Amphitheater.

As long as I can remember, I have had meaningful connections with children. I am currently working on my Associates degree in Early Childhood Education to better my understanding of what guidance and support looks like as an educator.

I am looking forward to building strong communication and lasting relationships with families and the Junior Kindergarteners.

Kendall Gross – Preschool Teacher

Kendall Gross is new to Evergreen, Colorado from her longtime home of Los Angeles, California, but she is not new to the field of Early Childhood Education! Kendall has been working with children in various capacities since she was a child herself and knew from early on that early childhood and elementary education was her passion and destined career. Kendall has had experience as a head kindergarten teacher, a Language Arts curriculum developer, a private tutor (for ages 3 to 13), and an assistant director of a reputable day camp.  She believes that children are innately curious and born learners; that children learn best when they love what—and how—they are learning, and thus it is a teacher’s job to identify and celebrate each child’s unique interests and strengths. She also believes that learning is best conducted in an accessible, collaborative, and loving environment which she establishes through the connections she builds with and among her students. Kendall has a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and is earning her Master’s in Early Childhood Education and initial licensure in Special Education.

Megan Vail, Preschool 1 Teacher

Hello! I’m Megan and I’m so excited to begin my fourth year at TLC. Born and raised in Evergreen, I’m a mountain girl through and through!  Inspired by my Nana Jane and former Director, Deborah Caruso, I discovered a love for Early Childhood Education in 2018. My coursework, in ECE, is from Red Rocks Community College and I’ve worked with children since I was 16. I know that early childhood education is an important stepping stone in a family’s life and growth. I believe in creating a safe, warm, and exciting environment that brings enthusiasm to children’s learning and development. My goal is to bring a love of learning to your child; as well as work with you to create the building blocks to a bright and successful future for your child.

Mikaela King, Jr. Kindergarten Teacher

Mikaela is a born and raised Coloradoan who has always known she wanted to work with children. She has a BS in Psychology and a MS in Developmental Disabilities with a concentration in Child Life. Mikaela has over nine years of experience teaching typically and atypically developing children. This is her second-year teaching Junior Kindergarten and is very excited to begin a new year. What she loves most about early education is how she can teach young children all about the world they live in before they gain preconceived notions. When she is not cuddling with her dogs Mikaela can be found swimming, watching movies with her family, and reading a good book. Mikaela is looking forward to sharing her love of learning this school year!

Rabbi Jamie Arnold,

Rabbi Jamie is our in-house song-leader and story teller. He has been playing his guitar and singing with our preschoolers for over fifteen years! With his guitar and joyous spirit, he brings more than 25 years of experience working with young children and their families. A former preschool teacher himself, we are thrilled to have Rabbi Jamie’s regular visits infused in our Learning Center with his spirit, songs, and his playful tales.

Sarah Stirling, Preschool 2 Teacher

My name is Sarah Stirling, this is my second year at TLC Preschool. I’ve been a preschool teacher for three years now, and I’m loving every second of it. My love for working with children began as a martial arts instructor from the time I was eleven years old, when I had already received my second-degree black belt and began instructing. I have my undergraduate degree in International Studies, with minors in International Development and Spanish. I utilize these skills in the classroom through beginning level Spanish lessons, cultural diversity, and cultivating compassion and empathy. Outside of the classroom, I am passionate about outdoor hobbies, rock climbing, yoga, art, and cooking.

Shelly Lozano,  Pre-Kindergarten Teacher and Curriculum Coordinator

My name is Shelly Lozano and have been in early childhood education for over 25 years; 19 of which have been spent at TLC. I live in downtown Morrison with my cat (itty-bitty) and my 2 horses just down the road. I am very passionate about working with young children; their curiosity and joy is contagious! I love watching their spirit blossom as they go through our preschool program.

Susan Wartchow, Preschool Director

I was born on the island of Okinawa, grew up in Texas and have lived in Colorado for the past 24 years. I have a BA in Elementary Education, with a specialization in Reading, and am ECE Director certified. I anticipated teaching middle school but, as luck would have it, I found myself opening an Early Learning Center in the US Virgin Islands for teenage parents. This was not only an eye-opening and magical experience but instrumental in changing my trajectory to Early Childhood; creating a deep passion for the development of social and emotional skills in children and in the adults that teach them. I believe that collaboration and connection are instrumental in constructing optimal learning environments. I look forward to starting my 24^th year as an Early Childhood Director.

I wish you well! ~Susan