Ms. Alison, Site Director

Alison grew up in Washington state where she studied Elementary Education at a local community college. She had the opportunity to transfer to a school in Hawaii where she studied Linguistics. A few years ago, Alison moved to Chicago and became a nanny for three wonderful girls.

Alison discovered her passion for child development at the early age of 9, when her first nephew was born. This passion was reaffirmed while she served two terms in AmeriCorps teaching English in Elementary schools. Alison is excited to learn the ins and outs of preschool teaching so one day she can open her own preschool. She has over 10 years of childcare experience.

In her free time Alison enjoys being out in nature and exploring all Chicago has to offer. She often spends her time reading, biking, or volunteering at a local animal shelter.

Ms. Heaven, Infant Lead Teacher

Ms. Heaven is a Chicago native who recently graduated from Gwendolyn Brooks College Preparatory Academy. At her young age, Ms. Heaven has already gained a great deal of experience teaching and working with youth. In the years past, Ms. Heaven worked as a teacher's assistant at a summer camp. Heaven loves working with kids because she believes that kids are the purest form of humanity. She firmly believes aiding in their development is an indescribable privilege. In the future, Heaven would love to grow in this field by pursuing a career as a lead Pre-K teacher or as a child therapist. 

Ms. Nchimunya, Young Toddler Lead Teacher

Ms. Nchimunya was born and raised in Zambia, where she graduated from college and spent 5 years working as a preschool teacher with children ages 2 to 5. She now lives in Chicago and hopes to enroll at DePaul to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education. In her spare time, Nchimunya enjoys learning the newest trends in hair braiding and loves exploring Chicago with her husband.

Ms. Kimberly, Older Toddler Lead Teacher

Kim was born and raised in Chicago in a big family. She completed her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology at DePaul University in 2018. She has been working with children of all ages since 2005, taking care of her younger siblings, babysitting for various families and working as a teacher’s aide and assistant in daycare settings. Ms.Kim loves working with children because it is fascinating to see them achieve their milestones. She has been leading the Older Toddler classroom at NEA for the last 6 years and is looking forward to many more.

During her spare time, she enjoys being with her family, attending numerous festivals throughout Chicago and going on exciting new trips.

Ms. Stephanie, Older Toddler Assistant Teacher

Stephanie was born and raised on the North Side of Chicago. From a young age, she had a strong interest in becoming an actor. However, during her high school years, Stephanie volunteered at Hayt Elementary School, assisting her second-grade teacher with various tasks. It was through this experience that she discovered her passion for working with children.

Stephanie is currently attending community college, where she is completing her Associate's degree in Early Childhood Education. With 5 years of experience working with children ages 2-5, she finds joy in helping them grow both educationally and socially. What excites her most about working with young learners is the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on their lives.

Outside of her professional career, Stephanie loves traveling, exploring new restaurants and neighborhoods around Chicago, and, of course, has a deep love for coffee.

Ms. Leslie, Older Toddler Assistant Teacher

Leslie was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, and spent her childhood in the Albany Park neighborhood. She gained early experience caring for her nephews and niece, as well as babysitting children ages 1 to 5. After graduating from Theodore Roosevelt High School, where she took Early Childhood Education classes, Leslie began working at a daycare.

Leslie is currently pursuing her goal of becoming a preschool teacher, with hopes of one day owning her own daycare. Outside of work, she enjoys drawing and reading, and dreams of having a small library in her home. She also loves attending concerts and traveling.

Ms. Claudia, Preschool Lead Teacher

Claudia joined New Einsteins Academy in September 2016. A native Chicagoan, she grew up in a culturally rich Mexican family. In 2006, she obtained her Bachelor's in Elementary Education with an endorsement in Spanish from DePaul University. While at DePaul, she received an award for academic excellence from the Department of Latin American Studies. Much of her experience in early childhood comes from having four beautiful children. Claudia also has experience working with kids with various levels of disabilities (physical, mental and cognitive), including two of her own children. Claudia is excited for the opportunity to incorporate Spanish songs and activities into the daily curriculum.

Outside of work, Claudia loves to spend time with her family, going on road trips and visiting parks, museums, games, and concerts. Her favorite color is blue. She is a big fan of Chicago Blackhawks, White Sox and New England Patriots.

Ms. Catie, Preschool Assistant Teacher

Catie grew up in St. Charles, Illinois, and now lives in Chicago’s Ravenswood area with her two cats. She has years of experience working with children, including at a children’s play place and helping raise her niece. She enjoys creating positive, supportive environments for kids and has a passion for helping them learn and grow.

Currently studying Psychology with a focus on children at Southern New Hampshire University, Catie aims to become a therapist for troubled children. In her free time, she loves walking with her cat Cookie, visiting the beach, and traveling, with New York City being a favorite destination.