Staff

Current Staff 2023

"Play is the Work of the Child"

LACC has been offering care to the community of Johnston for over 20 years. It is a professional goal that we hire seasoned, educated, and compassionate staff who have passion for what they do. We strive to have very little to no staff turnover by offering up a quality management team that truly cares about its teachers.

Heather N.

Director

I have been in the early education field in many different roles for a little more than 30 years. As the Director here at LACC, I love being a part of the lives of each child who comes into our care. These are the years where they learn the most important skills, and I enjoy when they hit those "proud" moments and you can see them growing right before your eyes!

I enjoy spending time with my family and keep busy going to concerts, dancing, or just hanging out at home with my 2 dogs. I love working here at LACC and hope you will reach out to me if you ever have any questions or concerns. Our goal each day is to learn, grow, and connect with those seeking a family style at a well-established faith-based center.

Dejah R.

Assistant Director & Lead Teacher

I am the Assistant Director here at LACC in Johnston. I recently obtained my Early Childhood Education degree! While my main field of study has been early childhood education, I have also taken many courses related to psychology, developmentally appropriate practices in childcare, and trauma-minded classroom support. I have been in the childcare profession for over 20 years.

As a professional, I enjoy implementing Montessori-minded practices in our classrooms. Here at LACC, over the last 2 years, we have worked, as a team, with our staff to integrate experiences in practical life skills, sensory, and nature exploration into each classroom. This has created a more family and play-based vibe to our center.

Marsha G

Cook

I'm Marsha, mom of 4, Grammy to 6. I have been caring for children and adults for the past 30+ years. I have held many positions in daycares, and I am currently the Loving Arms cook. When I'm not working I like to spend time with my grandchildren, crafting, reading, and spending time at home with my 2 dogs.

Kayla W

Teacher - Little Helpers

I have always enjoyed working with children. Outside of spending time with my own families’ children, I spent almost 4 years working in a daycare center. Most recently I spent 9 years working with intellectually challenged adults but found myself missing my work with children. I have been with LACC since May of 2023 and hope to make this my "forever" work home.

I love coffee, sushi, and spending time with my family. My favorite thing about working with 2 year olds is their curiosity and determination.

Hannah T.

Teacher - Infants

Hello! I am Miss Hannah and I have my Associate of Science Degree in Early Childhood Education. I have worked in this field in various childcare environments, including 2 in-homes where I was an assistant. I have worked as a professional in childcare for over 17 years. I joined Loving Arms in October of 2021 in the younger infant room, and I am excited to be part of this great team! I also completed my internship class at Loving Arms when I was working on my Associates Degree.

Karen Z.

Teacher - Toddlers

My name is Karen. I have been working at LACC since October 2022. I have been doing childcare for over 30 years. I've worked with infants through school-age children. I love watching the children learn and grow! I have 3 grown children, a daughter and two sons. I also have a grandson and 2 pugs.

"For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them." (Ephesians 2:10)

Modena S.

Teacher - Infants

I have worked in childcare for over 15 years. Outside of working for Loving Arms, I enjoy spending time with my family. My husband and I have a daughter, a son, 5 grandchildren, and a dog named Jake. We all enjoy camping and fishing during the summer. When we are not camping and fishing, we love to spend time watching our grandchildren participate in basketball, soccer, and swimming. I love my family!

"My son has grown leaps and bounds at Loving Arms. He has learned valuable social skills and excelled in learning basic skills, and we love that he’s receiving a faith-based education. The staff at Loving Arms is caring, and trustworthy, and we know that our child is safe and in good hands when we drop him off every morning. I am so happy to have found this treasure of a daycare."

- Kendra J.