Ms. Guadalupe, Site Director

Ms. Lupe has been working with children for over 7 years. Her choice of career was greatly influenced by Lupe’s 3rd grade teacher who showed her what it feels like to make an impact on a child’s life. As Ms. Lupe taught and guided her own students through their early years of life, she quickly discovered that her heart was in Early Childhood Education. In 2013, she obtained her associate degree in Arts with the concentration in ECE.

During her free time, Ms. Lupe enjoys traveling, spending time with family, and being outdoors.

Ms. Yulisa, Lead Teacher

Yulisa was born and raised in Chicago. Her inspiration to work with children came from her grandmother’s home daycare and she started working with children in 2018. When she was ten, Yulisa loved to help take care of her younger siblings and her love for teaching only grew from there. When it was time to make her career decision Yulisa immediately knew that working with children was her passion. She obtained her Associate’s in Arts and has her Advance certificate in Pre-school education from City Colleges of Chicago. Yulisa believes that children need to play to explore their surroundings and learn from each other.

In her free time, Yulisa likes to use her Cricut to create vinyl projects and crafts. She also enjoys baking for her family and friends. She hopes to one day own a business with her family.

Ms. Mireya, Young Toddler Lead Teacher

Ms. Mireya has been working in Chicago daycares with children of all ages for over 6 years. Mireya is currently working toward her CDA license. She has also taken several child development classes and assisted in many ECE workshops throughout the years. Ms. Mireya believes that children are like sponges - they absorb everything quickly in their early years. That’s why it’s important for Mireya to create a safe and learning environment for her tiny students.

Outside of the classroom, Mireya enjoys going for walks and listening to music.

Ms. Bianca, Young Toddler Assistant Teacher

Bringing with her over eight years of expertise in early childhood education, Ms. Bianca is genuinely excited to be a part of the NEA team. Throughout her career, she has successfully engaged with diverse age groups, spanning from 15 months to 5 years old. Bianca has taken charge of leading summer programs and played a pivotal role in organizing school events. Her passion lies in witnessing children explore the world and fostering their confidence along the way. .

Beyond her professional life, Bianca finds joy in reading, baking, and crocheting, adding a creative touch to her personal interests. Her multifaceted skills and dedication make her a valuable addition to the NEA community.

Ms. Esme, Young Toddler Assistant Teacher

Ms. Esme was born in Guatemala and has been raised in Chicago since she was six months old. She recently got married and shares her home with her dog, Rory, and her cat, Xena. A fun fact about her is that she is a twin and also has a younger sister.

She loves exploring creative arts, visiting new dog parks, and trying out new activities around Chicago. She also enjoys a good cup of coffee with an old-fashioned donut, and her favorite food is pasta.

Ms. Esme’s passion for early childhood education began when she worked as a summer camp counselor at the age of 12. Since then, she has worked hard to earn her associate degree in education, gain four years of experience working with infants and toddlers, and achieve her Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. She is dedicated to fostering a warm and engaging learning environment for young children.

Ms. Stefanie, Older Toddler Lead Teacher

Stefanie was born and raised in Chicago and is the oldest of two siblings. She obtained her Associates of Arts in Social Work from Harold Washington College and is working towards a Bachelors degree in Early Childhood Education. During her sophomore and junior year in high school, Stefanie volunteered as a mentor to incoming freshman. She gained experience with young children working at daycare centers and babysitting. She loves teaching children and believes that an adult can learn so much from a child too.

Stefanie loves spending her free time outdoors, exploring new places in this huge city. She also likes watching comedy movies, baking, and spending time with her family.

Ms. Fritzi assistant older toddler

Ms. Fritzi’s journey in childcare began with babysitting and caring for the children in her family. She frequently volunteered at her local community center in North Carolina, tutoring school-age children. Her dedication led to employment with the center, where she gained valuable experience through summer programs and home visits.

With four years of experience, she moved to Illinois in 2023 and discovered her passion for teaching while leading a before-and-after school daycare program in Downers Grove. She firmly believes in learning through play and enjoys incorporating play-based teaching in the classroom. She also values creativity in young children, recognizing that nurturing this trait helps with communication and problem-solving.

Ms. Fritzi’s goal is to continue expanding her knowledge and work toward a college degree. Outside of the NEA classroom, she enjoys nature walks, arts and crafts, visiting local libraries, and exploring the city.

Ms. Perla, Older Toddler Assistant Teacher

Ms. Perla was born and raised in Cicero, IL. Perla's first ever job was at the North Berwyn Park District where she worked as an afterschool and summer camp counselor since she was 17 years old. Her experience as an early childhood educator inspired her to continue growing in the field. Ms. Perla has a two-year-old daughter. She is very grateful to be part of the NEA and is hoping to receive an ECE degree in the near future..

Ms. Liz, Preschool Assistant Teacher

Miss Liz grew up in the southwest suburbs of Chicago. She has always had a passion for working with children. Over the years, she has worked with all age groups and children with special needs, including the six years she spent at the LaGrange Department of Special Education in a variety of programs. She attended the College of Dupage, pursuing an associate degree and certification in Early Childhood Education. She also attended Gallaudet University for a summer to learn sign language. After working in healthcare for several years, she decided to return to the early childhood field, where she feels her true calling is. Miss Liz is proud to be part of the NEA family and share her knowledge with all the wonderful children here. During her free time, Ms. Liz loves baking and traveling.

Ms. Paulina, Preschool Assistant Teacher

Paulina has been working in early childhood education for nearly four years. Before becoming a teacher assistant, she worked as a balloon artist for a small family business, creating balloon arches and garlands for schools across the city.

She earned her associate degree in Social and Behavioral Sciences from Arrupe College of Loyola University. Her experience as a home visitor deepened her passion for working with children, and she loves watching their curiosity grow as they learn and explore each day.

Outside of the classroom, Paulina volunteers with a nonprofit organization that serves the community and provides homework assistance to students who need extra support. She is dedicated to creating a nurturing and engaging environment where children can thrive.

Ms. Eli, School Floater

Eli has been working with children for over 15 years. She enjoys every aspect of teaching and has realized through her years in the field that the children can teach us as much as we teach them. Every day she makes sure that each child receives the best care and love that they all deserve. Eli is proud and lucky to be part of such a great group of teachers.

In her free time, Eli enjoys listening to music, watching movies, and spending time with her children.