Director:  Lavonne Taylor

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

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Assistant Director Preschool Program:  Melissa Ayers

​Miss Melissa has  been working with children for over 10 years and as an administrator since 2019.   She is  preschool and infant- toddler certified and has her AA degree in Teaching.  In  her spare time  she enjoys crafting and spending  time with  her family.  She loves animals and nature!
missmelissa@fhnaturepreschool.com

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Assistant Director Infant/Toddler Program:  Valerie Hillenbrand

My name is Valerie.  I have been in early childhood for over 30 years. I have worked as an administrator for several years at different centers along with being a twos teacher. Here at Forest Hill Nature Preschool I oversee the  Infant and Toddler program making sure our littlest ones are well taken care of.  In my spare time I enjoy camping, hiking, kayaking anything outdoors in the summer.

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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, paid community service, 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.  

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4A Class
Miss Melanie & Miss Katelyn

My name is Melanie Shelly and I am excited to be working here at Forest Hill Nature Preschool.  I have my Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education as well as 24 years of experience working with children.  I have worked with ages infants through school age.  I was a para educator in the school system.  I have been a director of several preschools.  I also have had the privilege of owning my own Day Care Center for the last seven years, which I recently sold to move to York, PA to be closer to family.  I love working with children and watching their sense of wonder, and encouraging them as they learn new things.  I want to be a positive impact in the lives of children I get to work with.  In my spare time you will catch me hanging out with my family ( I have 6 kids), paddle boarding or just exploring the world around us.

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​Hello!  My name is Miss Katelyn and I love teaching children! I have worked with children for over 6 years and currently, I love working in the 4's classroom here at Forest Hill Nature Preschool.  I aspire to obtain a degree in Art Education, especially Art Therapy. I have a strong appreciation of art and nature, which is one of the reasons I love our nature-based philosophy. I try to provide fun, hands-on learning opportunities everyday to our students!  Additionally,  I love to read A LOT and I love to read to children.  I also enjoy music and play the violin.   

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4B Class
Miss Judy & Miss Judi

My name is Judi Lazo. My parents are from El Salvador but I was born and raised in Long Island, NY. I speak Spanish and love to introduce everyone to pupusas. I’ve been in Maryland since 2010. I love to spend time with family, friends, and volunteering at Jug Bay Wetlands and Anacostia Watershed to learn more about our natural world. I enjoy spending time outdoors and LOVE to travel. “Life is one long bucket list.” I am currently in the Maryland Master Naturalist program and enrolled in Notre Dame University of Maryland to pursue my undergrad in Early and Elementary education. I worked in Catonsville, in a 4 year old outdoor nature based program. My hope is to continue to inspire children to love, explore, respect, and protect nature while promoting each child’s development in all areas. I am looking forward getting to know and work with the children and families! ​

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4C Class:
​Miss Lee and Miss Samantha

Miss Lee has an Early Childhood degree from   Stevenson University.  She has been a  camp counselor at Cromwell Valley Park’s Nature Camp, and has worked   at The Park School’s  aftercare program.  Miss Lee has a strong passion for children, animals, nature, and music. She volunteers at   shelters and animal rescue organizations.  She feels that  children do best in an environment where they feel  safe, loved, and can have hands-on experience that connect them to the outdoors and the real world. 
misslee@fhnaturepreschool.com

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​4D Class:
Miss Bri and Miss Larissa

Miss Bri is continuing this year in our 4 year old program and has previous experience with all ages.  She has been working with children for 10 years.  Miss Bri is currently taking classes at Harford Community College to pursue a degree in Early Childhood Education.   She loves working with children, and encourages them to create their own adventure!   
missbri@fhnaturepreschool.com
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4E Class
Miss Carrie and Miss Lauren

Miss Carrie has been working with preschoolers at FHNP since we opened in 2013. She is very excited to be back in the classroom at FHNP teaching in the 4-year-old program. Miss Carrie is a graduate from Towson University were she received her Bachelors Degree in Early  Childhood Education. She is excited to have her son in the Infant/Toddler program at the school.
misscarrie@fhnaturepreschool.com

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3A Class
Miss Jess and Miss Nicholle

Miss Jess has been pasionate about early childhood education throughout most of her life.  In high school she worked with the Mini Mustangs preschool program and after graduation, she took classes in Early Childhood Education at Harford Community College.  Miss Jess has been working at FHNP since opening in 2013.  She has worked in both the 2s and 3s program, and is excited to continue working with 3 year old's this year!  Miss Jess is happy to be doing a job she loves and looks forward to continuing to grow as an educator each year while sharing new experiences with all of the children.
missjessica@fhnaturepreschool.com

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3B Class
​Miss Regina and Miss Caland

Greetings! My name is Regina Mickle and I feel very fortunate to have joined the Forest Hill Nature Preschool family. Originally from outside of Philadelphia (go Phillies and Eagles!), I now live in Whiteford, MD. I have been working with children for 20+ years in a variety of roles: babysitter, nanny, camp counselor, daycare assistant, and now preschool teacher.  My enjoyment of learning has led me down several paths: I have taken Early Childhood classes through Howard Community College, earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Widener University,  and  a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Sciences from Arizona State University.  Reading, Netflix binges, physical activity, and volunteering are my favorite ways to keep busy. I try to have a kind word for everyone, and encourage others to do the same.
I am excited to  continue this journey!
missregina@fhnaturepreschool.com

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3C: Miss Theresa and Miss Tierra

Miss Theresa has worked in the field of education for eight years, and has been a teacher at Forest Hill Nature Preschool for two years.  Her love of art and working with children led her to study Art Education and Early Childhood Education in college. Her favorite thing about teaching art to young children is sparking creativity and introducing them to different art mediums. One of Miss Theresa's main goals is to help children express themselves and to grow as artists. 
misstheresa@fhnaturepreschool.com

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3 /4 Class
​Miss Kim and Miss Brooke

 “Hola! My name is Kimberly Wolf. I’m fortunate and proud to say I work at Forest Hill Nature Preschool. I’ve been working with kids for 9 years, this also includes babysitting, assistant teacher at a daycare, and now a preschool teacher. I’m currently enrolled at Harford Community College majoring in Education. I’m certified in CPR, First Aid, and Medication Administration. My hobbies include doing puzzles, painting, and baking.”
​misskimw@fhnaturepreschool.com

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2A Class
​Miss Val

Hi, I’m Miss VAL! This is my second year working at FHNP and I’m loving it. I worked at a nature center and summer camps for 6 years prior to coming to FHNP. I will be working on my Maryland Master Naturalist soon. I love working with animals and one day, I will get my falconry license. We have two class pets in our classroom, a snake and a hamster.
​missvalerie@fhnaturepreschool.com

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2B Class
Miss Emily and Miss Delanie

Miss Emily has been working at the preschool since we opened in 2013. Her favorite part of being a teacher is helping her students learn to regulate their emotions & form loving friendships. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, painting, and traveling. ​​

missemily@fhaturepreschool.com

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Toddler Class
Miss Kiara, Miss Maryam,
​Miss Sally

My name is Kiara. I’ve been in childcare for almost 8 years. I was in a work study program through my high school in which I volunteered with a two year old class. I learned how to create lesson plans among other things within the course. I then graduated from Morgan State University with my bachelors in psychology in 2014. From there, I have been loving the blessing of playing a small role in a child’s development and seeing their growth. There’s no gift like it. ​

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Hi, my name is Maryam.  I am married and have one  daughter.  We all live in York, but  I am originally from  Iran where I worked as a teacher in middle school.  I have lived most of my life in the USA.    I adore  children  and I love my work  at the nursery.  My hobbies are gardening,  making jam, baking,  and interior  design.   I love meeting my friends and family  and I love laughter.   I respect  mankind  no matter what  their color, ethnicity, or their  religion. 

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​Hi everyone! I’m Miss Sally!. I am new to Forest Hill Nature Preschool and teaching. I was a stay at home mom and helped with our family business for many years. After working in a kindergarten classroom, I knew I’d found my passion and decided to pursue it. I have a BS in Business from University of Baltimore and recently earned my 90 hour Preschool Certification. I teach with Miss Kiara and Miss Maryam in the toddler room and we have lots of fun. I love providing new learning experiences and sharing in the children’s excitement and growth. When I’m not teaching, I enjoy cooking, hiking, and boating with my family, friends and two dogs. 

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Infant A Class
Miss Tina and Miss Shannon

Miss Tina is excited to have began working at FHNP in the summer of 2018.  She begun her teaching career in 2002.  She is currently enrolled at CCBC working on a degree in Early Childhood Education.  She is looking forward to getting to know all of the students and their families here at FHNC.  During her time away from the classroom she enjoys spending time with her family.
misstina@fhnaturepreschool.com

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​Hello,  my name is Judy and I have been working with 4's for a little over 6 years.   I am a firm believer that children learn more while having fun, which is why I like to incorporate music and dance into every lesson. I am CPR/First Aid certified and have my Medication Administration certificate.  Every year I attend a variety of trainings with my daughter (the art teacher) to help bring new and fun ideas into the classroom. Throughout my years I have had the privilege of being a Girl Scout Leader, volunteer at a shelter and a partner with a Grandparents Support group which have helped me develop great communication and problem solving skills. I can not wait to have fun with your kids and listen to all of their stories.
missjudy@fhnaturepreschool.com

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My name is Samantha Parr.  I have my Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education and am planning to return to school to achieve my Bachelors Degree in this field. I have lots of background working with children including field placement experiences, one year of teaching experience and three years of experience working with children/ young adults with an Autism diagnosis. One of my passions is working with children and allowing them to explore their environment through play. Play is a huge component of learning! When not at work, I enjoy to spend time with my cousins and explore new places!
​misssamantha@fhnaturepreschool.com

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Hola! 
My name is Miss Larissa! I will be working the 4 year old class for the upcoming school year.   ​I grew up in Brazil before migrating to The United States in 1996. I lived in New York City until I started a family here in Maryland. I am fluent in Spanish, Portuguese, and English. I spend my free time with my two children. My oldest, Dennis, is  four and my youngest, Victor, is three. We enjoy swimming, playing soccer, ice skating, and everything outdoors!  I can’t wait to spend the next year learning and growing with you!
Muchas Gracias, Hasta Luego!
misslarissa@fhnaturepreschool.com

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Hi, I’m Miss Lauren. This is my fourth year working with children and my first year at FHNP. I’m very excited to be teaching in the 4 year-old program. I’m currently enrolled at Harford Community College to pursue a degree in Early Childhood Education. Besides seeing the children become engaged with learning, my favorite thing about teaching is the relationships that are built between teacher and student. I strive for each student to feel safe, happy and loved.
misslauren@fhnaturepreschool.com

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Hi everyone! I’m Miss Nicholle! I moved here from PA about 3 years and have been teaching in a preschool setting for the past 5 years. I earned my Bachelors in Social Work at Slippery Rock University in Pennsylvania and my 90 Hour Certification from HCC. I teach with Miss Jess in the 3A room and we love to have fun! I love to teach kids about nature and letting them explore it outside everyday! When I’m not teaching, I enjoy caring for my plants and spending time with my puppy and husband! ​missnicholle@fhnaturepreschool.com​​

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Miss Caland has been teaching at FHNP for three years. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education and Special Education from Towson University and has interned in many schools across Harford County, Maryland. She attends trainings each year to continue building her knowledge in education and bring new ideas into the classroom. Miss Caland has always had a love for children. She believes in creating opportunities for children to develop to their fullest potential while also creating a positive and loving environment that they feel comfortable and safe in. Miss Caland enjoys spending time outdoors, traveling to new places, and caring for her plants at home and in her classroom! ​
misscaland@fhnaturepreschool.com​

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 Miss Tierra grew up in Baltimore and is the oldest of 11 brothers and sisters. She has her 90 hr. certificate, her A.A. from MBCNS in biblical studies, and has worked with children for over 12 years as a nanny and at various daycare and preschools.  Miss Terra is currently studying to  get her certificate in yoga instruction and sports nutrition. She likes to spend time with friends and family, enjoys arts and crafts, and attending church. She has travelled to many states and even Canada for mission trips and is very involved with her church's youth program.   This is Miss Tierra's first year at FHNP.
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​Hi!  My name is Brooke Coleman and this is my  first year here at FHNP! I am CPR, first aid, and medication administration certified. I love the color pink, sharks, and traveling. In my free time I enjoy  kayaking, spending time with family and friends, and going to the beach. I look forward to  working with your children and all the fun we will have!
​missbrooke@fhnaturepreschool.com

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Hello!  I'm Regina Bond.  I am new to FHNP, so far my new journey has been nothing but amazing--I love it!    In the past, I've babysat both verbal and nonverbal children, and I've been a caregiver for adults with special needs.  I have 3 kids of my own.  I love being with my family and traveling.   Let's go see the world!

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Hi! I am Delanie and I am new to FHNP in the 2 year old room.   I previously was at another daycare, also in the 2 year old room.  I have also babysat for over 6 years.  I have found working with children to be a very rewarding job and have enjoyed being a 2 year old teacher.  In my free time, I enjoy riding horses and taking my dogs for walks.

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Reading
​Miss Amy

​Hi, my name is Miss Amy, and I am the reading teacher at FHNP. I have a degree in Elementary Ed and have worked with children in many settings over the years, from teaching preschool and middle school to being a mom and grand mom. As the reading teacher, it is my desire to open the world of words and books to your children and lay the foundation for beginning reading. It is my goal to foster confidence and excitement about reading in a fun, encouraging environment. I meet with students in small groups and incorporate lots of fun games and movement into our lessons to engage them. Along with reading, I have a passion for music, the arts and spending time in nature. In my time off I am usually spending time with my family and friends, outside as much as possible.

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Special Education Coordinator
​Miss Amber

Hello! I am Amber Luchi, Special Education Coordinator at Forest Hill Nature Preschool.    As a mother of three children and a Certified Elementary Educator/Certified Special Educator, I have naturally gravitated to roles involving children and inspiring all children to learn. I have a Master of Education in Special Education from Loyola College in Maryland, a dual Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education & Liberal Arts and an Associates of Arts in Elementary Education from Harford County College.  I have also have received my 90-hour certificate for early childhood. Children are fun, challenging and unique.  My elementary teaching years in the public school system, I choose a career path in Special Education in order to understand each child’s uniqueness and how to support their individual needs as well as communicate and assist their parents. This was an amazing experience that allowed me to apply all of my knowledge and skills to children for many years. When I became a mother, I immediately gained knowledge of children’s early development and their needs and the challenges that most parents are presented with.  Everyday is a new learning experience and I continue to discover new ideas, practices, actions, etc. to help each child. I am blessed to be a mother and I am blessed to be a part of the FHNP family.​

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My name is Shannon Sundeen, and I have been working in childcare for a total of five years! I am passionate about teaming up with parents to help raise happy and healthy little ones! I have a three year old son who keeps me on my toes, and together we enjoy hiking, exploring, and reading. In my spare time, I enjoy taking on writing and editing projects. 
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Infant B Class
​Miss Melanie and Miss Sarah

Hello! My name is Melanie Kowalczyk, this is my first year teaching at FHNP. I have been working in the child care business since graduating high school in 2007. I love  my job and knowing I am a part of helping the children reach their milestones in life makes it all worth it in the end. When I’m not being a child care provider I enjoy going to sporting events, hanging out with family and friends, and going on random road trips.
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Hello! I'm Miss Sarah. This is my first year at Forest Hill Nature Pre School. I am very happy to work here! I have over fifteen years working with children of all ages. I have an AA degree in General Studies and a BA in English.  Also my 45 and 90 hour certificates. I have two children, ages 12 and 17. I currently work with babies  6 to 12 months old. This is such an exciting age group due to so many milestones they achieve at this age! It is amazing to watch them learn and grow so much. 

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Infant C Class
​Miss Brittany and Miss Ashley

Hi!  My name is Brittany Colella and this is my  first year here at FHNP! I am CPR, and medication administration certified. I have an associates degree from Harford Community College. I love the color pink, and everything sparkles, giraffes, and traveling to anywhere that is warm. In my free time I enjoy spending time with family and friends, and going to the beach. I look forward to  working with your children and having them in my class. ​

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Hi im Miss Ashley , I'm 32 years old and I've been working in child care off and on for about 12 years. I'm married and I have a 13 year old son. I love animals ( mainly penguins  ) and I enjoy doing fun new things with the kids in my classroom. In my spare time I do photography and I spend as much time with my family as possible. ​

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Miss Halaina
Infant/Toddler Support Teacher

My name is Miss Halaina and I am very excited to  work at FHNP!   I am currently enrolled as a senior at Fallston High School and plan to attend HCC next year.  I have been working with children for a few years.  I taught at a preschool program in Fallston, and have been a camp counselor at Beachmont Christian Camp. I am very excited to continue working with the kids and watch them grow!

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Aftercare/PM Center Staff

Miss Kara

  ​Hello!
My name is Kara Stoecker and I am a proud part time teacher at Forest Hill Nature Preschool. I have always enjoyed working with children whether that be babysitting, assistant teaching, coaching, tutoring, or volunteering. I have experience working with all ages and abilities including children with intellectual and developmental disabilities such as Autism, Cerebral palsy, and Down syndrome. In the fall of 2021 I will be attending Towson University to study Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology (go tigers!). I am also certified in first aid and CPR. In my free time I enjoy spending time with friends and family, going to the beach, and exploring new places! My goal is to help children strive to be the best they can be and create lasting memories and friendships!

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Miss Madelyn

​Hi everyone! My name is Madelyn Jester and I am an after-care teacher as well as a substitute from time to time. I am currently studying Nursing and Biology at Stevenson University. I have a passion for working with kids and have been doing it for over 5 years, as well as being a lifeguard and swim instructor at Bel Air Athletic Club. During my free time I enjoy hiking, shopping, or reading a good book!

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Miss Jill

Hi my name is Jill! I am a part time aftercare teacher here at Forest Hill Nature Preschool. I am  CPR  certified , ADA certified and hold my 90 hour certificate, I will be graduating this spring and going on to continue my education at Harford community college majoring in psychology. This was my first year here and I look forward to many more years helping all our friends learn and thrive:) In my free time I enjoy spending time with my friends and family and taking my two dogs on adventures! 

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Hey--it's  Kayla Bond!  I have been working at FHNP for almost two years.  I love all my babies and I love working with children because they bring me so much joy!  I met Miss Lavonne at FreeState and she believed in me every step of the way.  I am super thankful for this opportunity.  I love being with my family and friends.  I have a twin brother.  I am really goofy and love making people laugh.

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Miss Annika

My name is Miss Annika and I am currently continuing my education at HCC. I have been a counselor at many children’s events including, VBS, HCC’s summer camp and volunteer work. I am thrilled to have this opportunity to continue to work with bright young minds! ​

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Miss Kay

My name is Kay Vinton and I am happy to be working in the aftercare program at FHNP. Spending time with preschoolers and watching them learn and grow is very enjoyable to me. I received my degree in education from Loyola University and completed my Master of Education degree at Towson University. I taught for five years at Riverside Elementary School before spending time at home to raise my five children. During my time at home I taught Sunday school to 4 year old's at St. Joseph’s Church in Fullerton, MD and volunteered at the schools my children attended.  In my free time I enjoy gardening, music, travel, listening to audiobooks and spending time with my family, including my new granddaughter. I love to exercise and my favorite ways are by walking with my neighbors, riding my Pelaton bike and running. I am a member of the 50 States Marathon Club with two states to go to reach my goal of running a marathon in every state.
Now that I am an empty nester, I am excited to be back to teaching and sharing my love of learning with all my new preschool friends!

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Miss Dina

Hi! My name is Dina and I am an aftercare teacher and sub at FHNP and enjoy every moment of it. I am a Fallston High graduate where I completed my 90 hour certificate and 9 hour communication as well. I am currently enrolled in college at HCC where I study Early Childhood and Special Education. When I am not working or attending school, I enjoy spending time with family and friends. I love the outdoors as I am often camping or finding ways to be outside! I currently hold multiple certifications for childcare and dream of one day becoming a teacher. I like to make sure your children are having fun while in a safe and encouraging environment. I look forward to making memories with your children!

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 Hi,  my name is miss Adriana. This is my first year working at FHNP and I am so excited to be here. I moved to Maryland from New Jersey when I was a kid and been here most of my life. On my free time, I spend most of it doing hair and hanging out with my family. I really look forward to working with the kids and having best time doing it. 

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