Forest Hill Nature Preschool & Childcare LLC Pre-K Classes for 2, 3, & 4 y/o 2232 Rock Spring Rd, Forest Hill MD 410-638-2761
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Teachers & Staff

Every day of our lives we make deposits in the memory banks of our children.

Charles Swindoll

Teacher/Staff Testimonials

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 11 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!
[email protected]

Administrative Assistant Preschool Program:  Brittany Hamlin

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I am Miss Brittany and am excited to join the team at Forest Hill Nature Preschool as the administrative assistant! My family just moved here from Oklahoma City, Oklahoma where I was a church secretary for 5 years. My husband and I will have been married for seven years in October and have a two-year-old son who likes to keep us on our toes. I am looking forward to a great year with wonderful people!


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.  

4A Class
Miss Melanie & Miss Kelsey

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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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 Miss Kelsey taught previously in our 3/4 multi-age class and in our Wild in the Woods program.  This year she is excited to be working with her mom, Miss Mel in the 4A class.

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4B Class
Miss Judi & Miss Kayla

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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 Bri and Miss Courtney

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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!   
[email protected]
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4D Class:
​Miss Kate & Miss Hanna

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My name is Kate Hughes and I’ve been a part of the FHNP family as a parent for two years now. I am married with 3 kids: Riggs, who is in the 3s program, Ryan and Mackenna (twins) who are on the Infants/Toddlers side. I have my Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary & Special Education, as well as my Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education. Before my first year as a teacher at FHNP, I was an elementary school teacher at BCPS for 10 years. I love to hike and get my boots muddy!

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3/4 Class:
​Miss Lauren & Miss Samantha

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Hi, I’m Miss Lauren. This is my fourth year working with children and my second 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.
[email protected]

3A Class
​Miss Terra & Miss Victoria

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My name is Terra and I am one of the 3A teachers here at FHNP. I’ve worked for the school for 2 years and I’ve been working with children professionally for 12 years. I have two children of my own. My son Luca is 7 and my daughter Skylar is 4. I love children, nature, and animals! At home I have three cats and two guinea pigs and in our classroom we have our beautiful bunny Molly. I love childrens books and have over 1000 at home that I love to share with my class! I’m all for the outdoors, hands on, and sensory experience!

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3B Class
​Miss T, Miss Victoria, & Teacher Glenn

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3C Class
​Miss Kim and Mr. Justin

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 “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.”


2A Class
Miss Jess & Mr. Patrick

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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.
[email protected]

2B Class
Miss Emily & Miss Onie

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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. ​​


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2C Class
Miss Gigi & Miss Val

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Hi! I’m Ms. Gigi and I’m so excited to be a part of the 2C team. I have four siblings, I also grew up in Cecil County. My music teacher helped me find my voice in fifth grade, I never stopped singing after that, I was in choir for 8 years, I was even a member of an acapella group during
my high school years. I took culinary classes and became obsessed with cooking. I adopted a
cat named Buttercup and a dog named Spanky. Some things I like to do on my spare time is
read books, watch Netflix, go out on the weekends. I currently have my 90 hour Infants and
Todds certification, 90 hour preschool certification and my 90 hour School Age certification. I’ve
been in childcare for a little over 2 years now and it truly has changed my life :)

Special Education Coordinator
​Miss Amber

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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.​

Preschool Support Teacher
​Miss Lauren

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Hi! My name is Lauren Murk and this is my third 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! ​

Wild in the Woods Teacher
​Miss Melissa

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​Miss Melissa has  been working with children for over 10 years and as an administrator  from 2019-2023.    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 and is excited to be sharing her passion for nature with the children this year in the  Wild in the Woods program!
[email protected]

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Infant A Class
Miss Tina and Miss Cheyenne

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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.
[email protected]

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​​My name is Miss Kayla, also known as Miss Kay. I am grateful to serve God by doing what I LOVE every single day, and that is working with His children. Prior to teaching, I spent six years working in the hospitality and restaurant industry. I am currently pursuing my degree in Early Childhood Education, at Harford Community College. I am a proud lifelong learner and enjoying every step of the way. I am MSDE certified in infant teaching, preschool teaching, and school-age teaching. I love animals, nature, and adventures! During my free time I enjoy being with my family, my husky pup named Bella, and exploring God's beautiful outdoors. I also have a camper located in Pennsylvania, where I love to get away quite often! I look forward to watching your child grow and blossom!

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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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​My name is Hanna Flowers and I am currently one of the 4-year-old preschool teachers working with Miss. Kate! I have my Bachelor’s Degree in Human Development, as well as my Master’s Degree in Special Education. Before my first year as a teacher at FHNP, I was a nanny Miss. Kate’s kiddos for the past 3 years. (I was also her intern once upon a time!) My favorite thing to do outside of teaching is reading books in the sunshine!

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Hello, my name is Mrs. Danielle. I have two wonderful boys! I also have a dog named Thor. I have been working with kids for over 10 years. I have my masters in education. I love to draw, run, and spend time with my boys.   This year I have been able to sub in many of the classrooms at FHNP and worked as a long-term sub in the 2A class and Reading room.  I am excited to be able to work in the 3/4 class to finish the school year.​

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Hi ! My name is Glenn and I’m a new member to FHNP. I’m currently studying Early Childhood Education at HCC.  I’ve always enjoyed teaching kids and taking care of them because they’re very interesting and always make my laugh. In my free time I enjoy hiking,  journaling and cooking! ​​

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​Hello! My name is Patrick and this will be my second year working at the school. I am 21 years old and currently enrolled at Harford community college pursuing a degree in early childhood education. Outside of work and school I love art, making music, and nature. I am looking forward to a great year and getting to meet everyone!

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Hi I’m Miss Onie!  I’m currently  working on a degree in Early Childhood education . This is my second year working at FHNP, I am born and raised in Harford County, and grew up loving the outdoors, crafty projects, traveling, and my three fur-babies! I’ve been babysitting kids for almost 5 years now and have always loved working and being around children! It is a blessing to see how creative and free-minded children are, but also to see them grow and learn the things they’ll need in their everyday life, and I’m extremely grateful to be a part  of that journey!

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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.  I am excited to be back in a 2-year-old classroom to finish the 23/24 school year with Miss Gigi.   In my spare time I enjoy camping, hiking, kayaking anything outdoors in the summer.

Reading Teacher
​Miss Carrie

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Carrie has been working at FHNP since we opened in 2013.  She has been a 2-year-old teacher, a 4-year-old teacher, and administrator, and a Kindergarten teacher.  She is mom to three amazing kiddos--Karlie in 2nd grade, Finn in the 4s class, and Olivia in the Infant class.  This year Miss Carrie is excited to share her passion for reading with the kiddos in the 4s classes.

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Art Studio Teacher
​Miss Mary Lynne

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My name is Ms. Mary Lynne. I have lived in Harco for the past 28 years and this will be my second-year teaching art at FHNP. I have a BFA in Visual Communications from The Maryland Institute, College of Art (MICA) and studied Art Education at Notre Dame of MD University. I have experience teaching art from the age of 2 years old through 12th grade. In my free time I love to travel, go hiking, boating and create art!
"The one thing that you have that nobody else has is you. Your voice, your mind, your story, your vision, so write and draw, and build and play and dance and live only as you can." - Neil Gaiman
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Spanish Teacher
​Miss Jinny

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​Hi! My name is Miss Jinny and I was born and raised in Puerto Rico and moved to Maryland a few years ago. I have a B.A degree in psychology and I am a preschool certified teacher. I have previous experience working with children back in PR, and three years of experience working in MD. I love working with children and seeing them grow and learn is one of my favorite things ever! I enjoy a good book and love to worship God. I also love to learn new languages and I aspire to be a published author one day. I’m blessed to be able to teach in FHNP!

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Cheyenne has been at FHNP since 2022 and is excited to be working this year with the littlest babies.   She graduated from Aberdeen High School and is taking classes at HCC for a Business degree.  Cheyenne has completed her 90 hour preschool certification and 45 hour infant/toddler certification .

Infant B Class
​Miss Melanie and Miss Reagan

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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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Infant C Class
​Miss Dacey and Miss Dina

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Hi, my name is Dacey & I’m a cat mom! Stella, my Persian, is my world! I have a Bachelors of Arts in psychology with a specialty in juvenile psychology. I absolutely love Chick-Fil-A, a good nap, and a thrilling documentary. I love teaching the 0-2 age group because they’re in their formative years and I feel like I’m making a difference!    This is Dacey's second year at FHNP.​

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Hi! My name is Dina.  I am  a 3s teacher 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. 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!

Toddler Class
Miss Brittany, Miss Micaiah, & Miss Ashley

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Hi!  My name is Brittany Colella and this is my  second 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. ​

Miss Halaina
Infant/Toddler Support Teacher

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My name is Miss Halaina and I am very excited to  work at FHNP!   I am currently enrolled  in HCC.  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!

Miss Molly
​Infant/Toddler Support Teacher

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This is Micaiah's  second year teaching at FHNP and she is excited to be in the Toddler room.  Previously Micaiah taught at Joy Junction on the Eastern shore, a daycare center owned by her mom--Miss Melanie from the 4A class.   Miss Micaiah is excited to be working at the school with her mom, her older sister Kelsey, and her twin sister Makayla.

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Miss Makayla
Infant/Toddler Support Teacher

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Photo from charmar