Director: Lavonne Taylor

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Miss Lavonne has 11 years of experience as a preschool director and teacher  in the Archdiocese of Baltimore, and 7 years as the founder, owner and director of Forest Hill Nature Preschool.  She has a B.S in Early Childhood Education from Towson University, and a M.A. in Technology for Educators from Johns Hopkins University.  She loves ice cream, but her passion is teaching children in a hands-on, nature-rich environment.  She lives in Forest Hill with her family.  She attends Bel Air United Methodist Church.  She is grateful for the opportunity to follow God's direction in her life, for the beautiful landscape of Harford county, and for daily opportunities to be blessed by children. She is particularly blessed to be a part of a growing school community.
misslavonne@fhnaturepreschool.com

Teaching Staff

The teaching staff at any school is the most critical element for the inspiration and success of the students.  In recognition of the importance of attracting and retaining high quality teachers, we offer an attractive compensation package including:  competitive salary, health benefits, paid sick and personal leave, wellness incentives with discounted membership to the Arena Club, employer-matched IRA accounts, paid vacation time after first year of employment, paid ongoing professional development, tuition discounts for children of staff members, and the opportunity to join an amazing group of people!
We are proud to have a fantastic staff joining us this year.  

Elementary Class
Miss Laura and Miss Lauren
My name is Laura Velazquez. I have over twenty years experience in child care. I recently celebrated my one year anniversary at Forest Hill Nature Preschool, and what a year it has been.  Working with children is the most rewarding, teaching them and watching  them grow is my passion. When I’m not teaching, I am home spoiling my four dogs and hanging out with my daughters.
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Hi! My name is Lauren Murk and this is my first year here teaching at Forest Hill Nature Preschool. I am attending Harford Community College for early childhood education. In my free time I enjoy hanging out with my family and friends, playing with my dogs, and anything outdoors. I look forward to working with your children and all the memories we will make! ​

Kindergarten 1 Class
Miss Kayla and Miss Michelle

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Hello! My name is Miss Kayla, also known as Miss Kay. Working with children has been my God given passion since I was a little girl. I am currently pursuing my AAS in Early Childhood Education, at Harford Community College. I am MSDE certified in infant teaching, preschool teaching, and school age teaching. I am CPR and first aid certified. I love animals, nature, and adventures! During my free time I enjoy being with my family, my husky pup Bella, and exploring in my camper!
Hi, my name is Michelle.  I am excited to be teaching here at Forest Hill Nature Child Care. I have been teaching in early childhood for over 20 years.  I have a degree in Early Childhood Education.  I am so excited to watch your Child grow and learn this year! ​

Kindergarten 2 Class
Miss Courtney and Miss Stefanie

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​Hello, my name is Miss Courtney. I recently moved here this past year from New Jersey, so this is my first year at FHNC. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Salisbury University. I have been working with children for 9 years in various roles including before/aftercare programs, babysitting, and as a camp counselor. I enjoy working with children because it is rewarding and I love seeing the smile on their faces when achieving their goals. In my spare time I like to spend time with family, friends, puppy and going camping.
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​Hi, I am Miss Stef with an F and I adore working with children and teaching them about education, nature, sharing, playing, and the fruits of the spirit. I was interested in kids at a young age because they're fascinating and have a different perspective. I have led Sunday school for several years and I am not afraid to get dirty outside or at the craft table. 
I have taken several education  classes in high school and in college, babysat and nannied for many years and I will be graduating in May 2021 with my Associate's  Degree in General  Studies. I am a mom of two teenagers and an outdoor photographer.  I love to spend quality time with my family, travel, cook, hike, fellowship with church friends, and spread God's joy. I am certified in CPR and First Aid.  I feel blessed that God led me to teach at FHNC!