Experienced, nurturing and committed teachers are the heart of TCDN. Bringing a variety of educational backgrounds and talents to their work with children, teachers enjoy helping children grow and learn within the homelike atmosphere of family grouping, or engaging children creatively in their hours out of school.

Teachers work in co-teaching teams at individual sites, and model a value of equity in the classroom. Responsibilities preparing the environment, planning curriculum, observing & assessing children, and working with families are equally shared. Site Coordinators for each program provide additional organization, leadership, and communication with the TCDN office. Teachers appreciate the creative freedom to design classroom curriculum based on the needs and interests of the children, and have the opportunity to participate in decision-making not only in programs, but on committees and task force groups that determine center policy.

Staff and Teacher Biographies

Administration

Cindy

My work at Trinity Cooperative Day Nursery has given me joy and satisfaction since 1977! After graduating from Juniata College with a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and from Temple University with a Certificate in Child Care, I became fascinated with young children’s early learning and dedicated to the responsibility that I had to create high quality, developmentally appropriate programs for children and their families.

Beginning as a preschool teacher, I went on to spend many years working to develop TCDN’s out-of-school time programs. Experience working with children and families directly, along with supervision and management at program sites combined to make my work at TCDN a richly rewarding profession for many years.

A professional development opportunity that has been meaningful to me is a Fellowship opportunity with the National Institute on Out of School Time (NIOST) programs and the National Writing Project (NWP), in which I developed an action research paper focusing on how I saw kindergarten children use writing literacy to extend their learning within the context of our Explorer program.

I have also presented workshops at various conferences and professional development opportunities over the years, most recently in April at the National AfterSchool Association Annual Conference. I am currently working on obtaining the PA State Director Credential. As the Director of Trinity Cooperative Day Nursery, I am committed to TCDN’s vision as a child-focused organization that sets the standard of excellence in our community.

My time away from TCDN is spent with my husband and two boys, reading, gardening, and traveling, whenever I can. When alone in the house, I love to put on my favorite music and dance, sometimes bringing out my tap shoes.

Michele C.

I joined Trinity Cooperative Day Nursery as the Office Administrator in April of 2011. I received my college degree, a Bachelor of Arts in English, from Saint Joseph’s University. After graduation, I started my career in radio advertising as a Sales Assistant, I was later promoted to Account Executive and then Office Manager. Unfortunately, after almost 14 years of employment, the company closed all offices across the country. I have always had an interest in the education field, and began searching for a career with an educational program which is what brought me to TCDN.

My husband Maurice and I met in 1989 while in high school and reside in the area with our teenage son Tyler, and our 16lb cat Zak. My interests are broad and varied. I love reading and I am an avid fan of Janet Evanovich and Dean Koontz. I also love music and have been a fan of The Dave Matthews Band for almost 15 years. I enjoy all of the local sports teams, as well as, movies, swimming, cooking and playing all types of games.

Maureen

I have been the Finance Manager at TCDN since December 2008. Ironically enough, I started my college education and career in Early Childhood Education. After working in the field briefly, I pursued an education and career in accounting and computers. I was employed by CIGNA Corp. for seventeen years where I worked my way up from accounting clerk to a manager in the corporate division.

A few years after the birth of my son, I found a position as Head of Finance and Human Resources at a local township library. This role solidified my new commitment to the non-profit sector. The defining moment for me was teaching a young man how to work on the computer and develop a resume. The young man was able to gain the employment he sought. There is nothing like going to work every day and making a difference in someone's life. That is what it is like working at TCDN. I have since obtained a professional certification from the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers.

My greatest pride is my husband Ron whom I married in 1983 and my son, Eric, born in 1991 and has since overcome enormous odds. Eric was born with a cleft lip and palate and diagnosed as legally blind as a toddler. He graduated from Emerald Academy at Ridley High with 16 college credits and a 3.98 GPA. He now attends Kutztown University on a full paid scholarship as a math major. My recreational interests include amusement parks, vacationing in Aruba, good horror movies and home decorating projects.

Preschool

The Duckling Teachers

Jeanne

For over forty years I have provided child care services, working primarilty as an infant/toddler teacher in several day care centers. I have been a teacher at TCDN since 1986. Being with children in a large group setting feels comfortable and natural to me because I grew up in a family of six children within a neiborhood of multiple playmates of various ages during the baby boom of the 1950's.

Learning about the dynamics of children's interactions within groups as each child develops and thrives, began when I was young and continues as an ongoing experimental learning process, despite my numerous years in the child care profession. There is always something new to learn.

I am certified in childcare from Temple University and have earned additional college credits from liberal arts and early childhood education courses. I bring my enjoyment of nature, music, movement( I am certified as a childrens yoga facilitator through YogaKids), and literature to the duckling classroom program. I am continually insprired by all that the children bring to TCDN- there joyfulness, spontaneity, openess, and natural inclination to imitate others and learn about their world.

Debbie

I began my career at TCDN in 2005. I work in the preschool as a Duckling teacher. I received an Associate of Arts Degree in Early Childhood Education from DCCC. I am in charge of the cradle and toddler care during Sunday services at Swarthmore Methodist Church. In my free time, I enjoy exercising and spending time with my husband Joe, our cat Jinxy and our rabbit Frankie.

Joe

I started at TCDN in 2008. I have a Bachelor's Degree in Education from West Chester University. I have more than 15 years of experience in childcare and instruction. My experience includes teaching preschool, kindergarten, and working as a TSS, therapeutic staff support, with autistic children. I was born in Delware County, but have spent time living in Virginia, Texas, and Colorado. I enjoy traveling and spending time with my own children.

Amy

I joined the team at TCDN as the new Preschool Coordinator/Program Developer in September of 2012. I have been working with children and families in the child care enviroment for over eight years and I was so excited to join the team at TCDN. I earned my MA in Psychology at LaSalle University and my BA in Sociology from Western Maryland College. I spent the last eight years as a Director at a local child care center and I have taken many additional education courses and training hours to further my knowledge of early childhood education.

Before working as a Director and Preschool Coordinator, I spent years working with families in a variety of different capacities including caseworker, advocate, probation officer and therapist. My passion is to make a difference in the lives of children wherever I can. Being in the child care field has allowed me to continue to influence the education and learning experience of children and teachers as well as teach me new things everyday. When I am not working I enjoy spending time with my two boys, ages 5 & 7 and my husband. We enjoy music and sporting events whenever we can.

The Kangaroo Teachers

Erin

I have been a preschool teacher at TCDN since 2004 and I have always been a Kangaroo teacher. I really enjoy working with children. I have a Bachelor's Degree in Education from Cabrini College in Radnor, PA.

Jen

I am known not only as Jen, but also by the nickname of Jenny Henny. I started at TCDN in 2002 as a teacher in the Preschool. I have my Associate of Arts Degree in Early Childhood Education. I love working with children because every day is something new and fun. I am never bored! I enjoy spending time with friends and family, local travel and watching scary movies.

The Owl Teachers

Jackie K.

I have worked in early childhood education for twenty years. I started with my own in-home daycare, when my daughter was little. During this time, I discovered my love for being a part of a child's growth and development and how rewarding it is!

I began at TCDN in 2006 and I have always been an Owl Room teacher in the Preschool. I have a Child Development Associate credential and I am taking Early Childhood Education classes at DCCC.

Scott

I have been teaching at TCDN since 2008 and I have been working with children for the last four years. I have a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of Texas-Arlington. I enjoy reading, music and baseball.

The Cricket Teachers

Kim

Hi, my name is Kimberly Maria Mills (Kim) and I am the Program Coordinator at the OASC and a Cricket teacher at the preschool. I have been with TCDN for 24 years. I received my Bachelor of Science Degree in Health and Physical Education from Davis and Elkins College, Elkins West Virginia. I recieved an Act 120 (Law Enforcement Degree) from Delaware County Municipal Police Academy. I attended Cabrini College attaining credits in their Masters of Education Program. I recieved my Director's Credential from Delaware County Community College in May of 2010.

I am a certified SAP instructor(Student Assistance Program) for Holcolmb Behavioral health System. I received the Terri Lynn Lokoff Teachers Recognition Award in April of 2002. I have taught Physical Education and First Aid at Lakewood High School, in Lakewood New Jersey. I also taught Physical Education at Penn Wood West Middle School in Darby, PA.

My hobbies include collectiing Wizard of Oz memorabillia, traveling, reading true crime, interior decorating and taking care of my cat Millie. I play softball, as a pitcher, for Buck Frank Excavatiing. I love teaching, playing and watching children grow!

Laura

I graduated from Neuman University in 2008 with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Elementary and Special Education. I am also duel certified in Early Childhood Education and Special Education. I have been teaching Preschool/PreK at various learning centers throughout Delaware County. I am happy to be the newest teacher for the afternoon Crickets program at TCDN. I will be continuing with the Master's program at Neumann this fall.

I reside in Aston with my husband, beautiful daughter Chase, 5 dogs (Lady, Roman, Milo, Lily and Bleue) a hamster (Garfield), and a veiled chameleon (Cecil). My 4 best friends are not strangers to my home either!

I adore animals, but pandas are my favorite. I also love wathing ridiculous movies with my best friends, going out to eat, Alice in Wonderland ( I have quite the Alice collection!) and going on vacation with my family. Aside from family and my closest friends, teaching is everything to me and I really look forward to being a part of TCDN!

The Squirrel Teachers

Maria

I began at TCDN in 2001. I have been a preschool teacher in both the Owl and the Squirrel rooms and I am the French teacher too. I really value being an educator during such a valuable time in a child's life. I have my Bachelor of Arts in French from Millersville University and a teaching certification from Widener University. I am currently taking Early Childhood Education coursework at DCCC.

I have two wonderful children and a great husband. I am also a black belt in karate.

Diane

I teach at the Preschool and am the Site Coordinator at the Nether Providence After School Club (NPASC). I also help coordinate the Summer Club. I love the opportunity to work in so many of TCDN's programs with children who are so varied in ages and interests! I graduated from Penn State University with a Bachelor's of Arts Degree in English. I also earned a Masters Degree in Elementary Education from West Chester University. I have taught regular and special education to children from preschool through high school.

I am an avid reader and I love to bring my passion for books and words to children. I am a distance runner, as well as being an ardent baseball fan and I enjoy visiting new stadiums.

Carol

I have been employed at TCDN since 2003. I cook at the preschool which I really enjoy. I am married and have a daughter named Heather.

Kindergarten Extended-Day Program (Explorers)

Beth

I have an Associate of Arts Degree from the Hussian School of Art in Philadelphia. I have completed several courses at the Barnes Foundation offered through the Violette de Mazia Foundation. Since I began with TCDN in 1990, I have attended numerous conferences, workshops and have earned additional college credits in Early Childhood Education. I enjoy the many aspects of our program and experiencing each child’s development. I especially enjoy presenting a variety of creative experiences to children. Through these experiences, I see the children develop the ability to “see” their own work, develop self confidence and learn to problem solve. I teach both AM and PM Explorers and am the Explorer Coordinator.

My time away from TCDN is spent with my husband and 2 children, cooking, gardening, reading and drawing.

Betty

My given name is Elizabeth but I prefer to be called Betty. In 2004, I retired from the Mary J. Drexel Nursing Home and I decided to apply for a teaching position at TCDN's After School Club located in Swarthmore. The children in the after school programs are aged from 5 years old to 9 years old and, having raised 5 children and spending so much time with my grandchildren has given me the experience to do this job well!

Today, I not only work with the After School Club, I also work with the Before School Club and the Kindergarten Extended-Day Program. I am also a substitute at the Preschool, when needed, and other after school clubs. I attend various workshops in Early Childhood Education. I received my Child Development Associate credential in 2009. I am currently attending Delaware County Community College pursuing an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education.

I have been married for 46 years to my husband, Jim. We have 4 girls and 1 boy and have been blessed with 17 grandchildren, 13 boys and 4 girls.

Rob

I have a Bachelor's Degree in Communications from Wilkes University and I am completing a Master's Degree in Elementary Education/Early Childhood Education at Cabrini College. I work as a teacher in the afternoon Extended-Day Kindergarten program (Explorers) and I am the Site Coordinator at the Swarthmore After School Club (SASC). I value the need for children to express themselves in a variety of ways, and I continue to foster that need daily by keeping the children engaged, active and inspired.

Carolyn

I began working for TCDN in 2005. I work as a teacher in the kindergarten AM Explorer program and also in the Swarthmore After School program for grades K-3. I have an Associate's Degree in electronics and worked as a field engineer for 15 years. I have a School Age Professional credential and I am currently working on an Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education. I enjoy gardening and pressing flowers to create floral creations. I enjoy getting children connected to their natural environment.

Swarthmore After School Club (SASC)

Rob

I have a Bachelor's Degree in Communications from Wilkes University and I am completing a Master's Degree in Elementary Education/Early Childhood Education at Cabrini College. I work as a teacher in the afternoon Extended-Day Kindergarten program (Explorers) and I am the Site Coordinator at the Swarthmore After School Club (SASC). I value the need for children to express themselves in a variety of ways, and I continue to foster that need daily by keeping the children engaged, active and inspired.

Carolyn

I began working for TCDN in 2004. I have an Associate's Degree in electronics and worked as a field engineer for 15 years. I have a School Age Professional credential and I am currently working on an Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education. I enjoy gardening and pressing flowers to create floral creations. I enjoy getting children connected to their natural environment.

Betty

My given name is Elizabeth but I prefer to be called Betty. In 2004, I retired from the Mary J. Drexel Nursing Home and I decided to apply for a teaching position at TCDN's After School Club located in Swarthmore. The children in the after school programs are aged from 5 years old to 9 years old and, having raised 5 children and spending so much time with my grandchildren has given me the experience to do this job well!

Today, I not only work with the After School Club, I also work with the Before School Club and the Kindergarten Extended-Day Program. I am also a substitute at the Preschool, when needed, and other after school clubs. I attend various workshops in Early Childhood Education. I received my Child Development Associate credential in 2009. I am currently attending Delaware County Community College pursuing an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education.

I have been married for 46 years to my husband, Jim. We have 4 girls and 1 boy and have been blessed with 17 grandchildren, 13 boys and 4 girls.

Wallingford After School Club (WASC)

Pat

I have a Bachelor's Degree from West Chester State Teachers College. I taught school, raised two children, operated a small retail business and had various part-time jobs. My interests include playing tennis, reading and working in my yard. Spending time with my children and grandchildren is my favorite pastime activity.

Since joining TCDN in 1995, I have worked as a substitute teacher and teacher in a variety of TCDN programs. I am currently the Site Coordinator at WASC and BSC. TCDN has a wonderful, loving, safe environment where parents send their children to discover and explore a variety of new relationships and activities. What a wonderful feeling I experience as I interact with our children while they grow and mature.

Sue

I graduated from St. Joseph’s University with a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education. I taught grade school for a long time before becoming a stay at home mom. In 2009, I began working for TCDN. I enjoyed coming back and working with children in the after school setting. I love watching a child’s face as they understand a concept that you are trying to teach them. My day is made when a child can master a task that can be challenging for them!

I am married with three children. I enjoy watching my children play sports, and enjoy reading books for quiet time.

Michele O.

I have worked for TCDN since 2004. This has been the best choice that I have ever made. I love the idea that I am now teaching the children to learn and grow both emotionally and academically; it is the most rewarding thing a person can achieve. I am also part of a wonderful team that works with special needs children; it is called "The Summer Panther Program". I would like to further my career by possibly returning to college. I have 2 wonderful girls.

Older After School Club (OASC)

Kim M.

I am the Site Coordinator at the Older After School Club (OASC) and the Cricket (Pre-K) Teacher at the Preschool and I have been a member of the staff of TCDN since 1987. I love teaching, playing and watching children learn and grow! I received my Bachelor of Science in Health and Physical Education from Davis and Elkins College in Elkins, West Virginia. I also received an Act 120, a Law Enforcement degree, from the Delaware County Municipal Police Academy.

I am a certified Student Assistance Program Instructor in the Holcomb Behavioral Health System, which is a program designed to provide appropriate counseling and support for students who have drug and alcohol problems. In 2002, I received the Terri Lynn Lokoff Teacher Recognition Award. I have obtained credits towards a Masters Degree in Education at Cabrini College and most recently, in May 2010, I received my Director's Credential from DCCC.

I have taught a combination of Physical Education and First Aid at Lakewood High School in Lakewood, NJ and Penn Wood West Middle School in Darby, PA.

My hobbies include collecting Wizard of Oz memorabilia, traveling, reading True Crime, interior decorating and taking care of my two cats, Ozzie and Mille. I can also be found happily playing softball as a pitcher for Buck Frank Excavating.

Kathryn

I am known as Kat and I graduated from West Chester University in 2008 with a Bachelor of Science in English Education Degree. Since then, I have spent time in schools all across Delaware County as a substitute teacher. I began working at TCDN in 2010. I enjoy working at OASC because the children find new ways to make me laugh every day. At home, I enjoy spending time with my husband, who is also a teacher, and with my dog, Frodo.

Bryan

I began at TCDN in 2007. I received my Bachelor's Degree in Music with a focus in violin performance from Haverford College. Upon graduation, I attended The Chubb Institute where I received a certificate in Computer Networking.

I worked for several years as a counselor for the Summer Institute for the Gifted. I also possess a license in property casualty insurance where I worked in the industry as a producer and office manager for several years. I also worked as a Personal Care Attendent for Special Needs children.

I have performed as a guitarist in a pop/rock/R&B band that played in top venues throughout Baltimore, Philadelphia, and NYC. I get great joy from giving piano, violin, and guitar lessons to people of all ages. I hope to be able to share my love of music with the children every year.

Kara

Nether Providence After School Club (NPASC)

Diane

I teach at the Preschool and am the Site Coordinator at the Nether Providence After School Club (NPASC). I also help coordinate the Summer Club. I love the opportunity to work in so many of TCDN's programs with children who are so varied in ages and interests! I graduated from Penn State University with a Bachelor's of Arts Degree in English. I also earned a Masters Degree in Elementary Education from West Chester University. I have taught regular and special education to children from preschool through high school.

I am an avid reader and I love to bring my passion for books and words to children. I am a distance runner, as well as being an ardent baseball fan and I enjoy visiting new stadiums.

Jackie D.

As far back as I remember, I have always had a great love for children. While still a very young girl myself, I was involved in caring for children during the summer months. I would take children to the community playground from 10 am until 12 noon for arts and crafts. I am still going strong with lots of children to love and teach including my grandchildren. So many classes, books and ideas! And now, I am still sharing except with a capative audience at NPE. I would not trade a single minute spent with these children for anything!
I have my Child Development Associate credential.

Before School Club (BSC)

Pat

I have a Bachelor's Degree from West Chester State Teachers College. I taught school, raised two children, operated a small retail business and had various part-time jobs. My interests include playing tennis, reading and working in my yard. Spending time with my children and grandchildren is my favorite pastime activity.

Since joining TCDN in 1995, I have worked as a substitute teacher and teacher in a variety of TCDN programs. I am currently the Site Coordinator at WASC and BSC. TCDN has a wonderful, loving, safe environment where parents send their children to discover and explore a variety of new relationships and activities. What a wonderful feeling I experience as I interact with our children while they grow and mature.

Betty

My given name is Elizabeth but I prefer to be called Betty. In 2004, I retired from the Mary J. Drexel Nursing Home and I decided to apply for a teaching position at TCDN's After School Club located in Swarthmore. The children in the after school programs are aged from 5 years old to 9 years old and, having raised 5 children and spending so much time with my grandchildren has given me the experience to do this job well!

Today, I not only work with the After School Club, I also work with the Before School Club and the Kindergarten Extended-Day Program. I am also a substitute at the Preschool, when needed, and other after school clubs. I attend various workshops in Early Childhood Education. I received my Child Development Associate credential in 2009. I am currently attending Delaware County Community College pursuing an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education.

I have been married for 46 years to my husband, Jim. We have 4 girls and 1 boy and have been blessed with 17 grandchildren, 13 boys and 4 girls.