Educators & Administration
Acorn- Infant
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Tammy image Tammy Michaud is an Acorn Room teacher and has worked at The Children’s Center since 7/25/11. Tammy has an Associate’s Degree in Business Management. Tammy’s philosophy of teaching includes allowing each child to grow and learn at their own pace, building a relationship not only with the children but with their families as well, and providing students a safe and nurturing environment.
Tammy is a professional member of NAEYC and Maine Roads to Quality, Level 4.
Away from work, Tammy enjoys being with her family and friends and going back ‘home’ to Aroostook County to watch movies.
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Steve image Stephen White is an Acorn Room teacher and started working at The Children’s Center in November, 1990; rejoining us again in November 2021. Steve has a B.A. in Psychology from UMaine, a K-8 Teacher’s Certification from UNE and 30 credits towards his Masters Degree from Nova Southeastern University. Steve’s philosophy of teaching includes giving children the guidance to express their feelings to their peers as soon as they learn to speak, and teaching children at an early age the basic behaviors of sharing, peaceful play, independence and self-control.
Steve is a professional member of Maine Roads to Quality (Lvl 7).
Away from work, Steve enjoys crosswords (still working on his Super Mega NYT Crossword), gardening flowers and vegetables, riding his bike in the summer and continuing to renovate his 100-year old home.
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Aom Pongarun Kirchberg (Aom) is an Acorn Room teacher and has worked at The Children’s Center since 2021. Aom has Bachelor’s Degrees in Psychology and Education. Aom’s philosophy of teaching is that all children are unique and have specific learning needs and styles. Aom believes the teacher’s role is to act as a guide and help each child achieve their highest potential. Aom aims to bring an open mind, a positive attitude and high expectations to the classroom each and every day.
Aom is a professional member of Center Based Professional (Lvl 7).
Away from work, Aom enjoys spending time with her family, playing video games and watching movies and TV shows.
Pinecone- Infant
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ChristinaMy name is Christina, and I am a Pinecone Room teacher. I have worked at The Children’s Center since October, 2021. I have an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education and have been working in the field since 2011. I spent three years as a Floater which gave me a lot of experience with the different age groups before fully dedicating myself to infants in 2014. My philosophy of teaching includes my beliefs that all babies are born ready to learn, and that it’s important for all of us to provide an environment where children feel safe to explore, build friendships and gain the confidence they need to grow and learn new skills. I believe it is very important to build strong family partnerships to ensure teachers and parents can work together to help the children reach their full potential.
One of my favorite moments in Early Childhood Education is watching the little ones hit their milestones. I love the looks of joy, pride, and sometimes surprise in their faces as they master new skills. Seeing a child start to walk, hearing them say their first words, or succeeding at a puzzle or task they have been attempting is incredibly rewarding. It's so amazing to be a part of their journey and to celebrate these big achievements with them and their families.
I am a professional member of Maine Roads to Quality (Lvl 6).
Away from work, I enjoy spending time with my family, baking and watching my daughter play sports.
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BrendaBrenda is a teacher in the Pinecone Room. She has over 30 years of experience in childcare and obtained her CDA in 2011. She enjoys working with kids of all ages, especially infants, and strives to provide them with a safe and fun place to learn and grow. Working in the infant room is her favorite because she gets to watch them grow and achieve different milestones. Brenda loves the infants’ curiosity, determination, and how their faces light up when they learn new things. She believes it is incredibly special to share the joy with parents when their child reaches a new milestone. Brenda is a professional member of Maine Roads to Equality (Level 5).
When not working, Brenda likes to spend time with her family - especially her four grandchildren. Her favorite things to do with her family are bowling, walking the beach, and watching movies. -
Hannah Hannah Given is a Pinecone Room teacher and has worked at The Children’s Center since February, 2022. Hannah graduated from Falmouth High School and is currently working to get her CDA (3-years experience in ECE). Hannah’s philosophy of teaching includes helping her students hit milestones, herself being a source of comfort and encouragement for both her students and their parents, as well as being a part of the children’s overall learning and growth.
Hannah is a professional member of Maine Roads to Quality (Lvl 1).
Away from work, Hannah enjoys going for runs, spending time with her family and friends and being with her dog.
Purple Room- Toddler
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StephanieStephanie joined the Purple Room team in 2021. She is originally from the Ivory Coast in Africa and her husband is still there and hopes to move here in the future. Her first language is French and has worked at a bilingual school in Portland prior to her most recent job as a nanny.
Stephanie has been working with children for the last 10 years, two of which she owned her own bilingual child care center. In her free time, Stephanie likes to read, watch documentaries, and loves to try new recipes!
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DaniellDanielle is a Lead Purple Room teacher, and started working at The Children’s Center in May 2022. She started out as the assistant teacher in the Blue Room before transitioning to lead teacher in the Purple Room in July 2024. Danielle brings five years of experience in early childhood education and has worked with all age groups, she is currently working towards getting her CDA certification.
Working with children has always been a passion of Danielles and as an educator, she is committed to creating a fun, safe, and inclusive environment for all children. Watching children grow and meet new milestones fills her heart with joy.
In her free time, Danielle enjoys listening to podcasts, spending time with her five (soon to be six) nieces and nephews, and going for walks with her dog Lia!
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Sharlene My name is Sharlene Duffy, and I have a deep passion for working with children. I love witnessing their excitement and pride when they learn something new or accomplish a goal. In my free time, I enjoy hiking in the woods and riding horses. I also create unique jewelry using porcupine quills that my husband collects.
Originally from Massachusetts, I studied early childhood education in college and have extensive experience working with children, including those with special needs, as well as serving as a preschool teacher. Additionally, I trained as a CNA and med tech, gaining valuable experience working with adults with dementia.
What brings me the most joy is helping others. I take pride in the trust and confidence both children and adults place in me. I believe every child learns differently and at their own pace, and I strive to help them feel confident as they navigate their learning journey.
Yellow Room- Toddler
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Debby Debby is a Yellow Room teacher and has worked at The Children’s Center since May 2011. She has an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education from Southern Maine Community College and is working towards a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education at the University of Maine, Farmington. Her philosophy of teaching is that learning is based on children’s interests and hands-on experiences. The environment can be an additional teacher and we take advantage of the natural playground and use it as an extension of the classroom. She wants to develop the children’s relationship with the natural world to build a foundation for ecological literacy.
“Children, teachers, and families should have fun learning and playing together.”
Debby is a professional member of NAEYC, MAEYC and Maine Roads to Quality, Level 6.
Away from work, she enjoys time with her family, especially her grandchild, reading, the Art Walk in Portland, and walks with her husband.
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MaddieHello! My name is Maddie and I am one of the lead educators in the yellow room. I am currently pursuing my degree in Early Childhood Education at Southern Maine Community College. I have been at TCC since June of 2023. Prior to TCC, I worked at a different childcare center for about 2 years.
I believe that children are naturally curious and learn best when we connect their learning to what they are interested in. I strive to create a positive, welcoming, and inclusive environment that allows children to feel safe, secure, and open to new and exciting learning.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending quality time with friends and family, drawing and painting, enjoying the beautiful outdoors, and finding new restaurants.
I am a Maine Roads to Quality level 2 as well as CPR certified.
"For a small child, there is no division between playing and learning, between the things he or she does just for fun and the things that are educational. The child learns while living, and any part of living that is enjoyable is also play"
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Molly Molly graduated with a Bachelor's degree of Fine Arts in Photography from the Maine College of Art and Design in 2023. With two years of experience in early childhood education, she has discovered her passion for helping young children grow and thrive. Molly believes in creating a warm, inclusive, and enriching environment where children can explore their interests and reach their full potential. When she is not in the classroom, Molly enjoys traveling and documenting her experiences through photography. She also enjoys spending quality time with her friends, family, and three adopted cats. Molly looks forward to continuing her journey in early childhood education, aiming to make a meaningful impact on the lives of young learners.
Green Room- Preschool
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MyraMyra Van Eekelen is a Green Room Teacher and has worked at The Children’s Center since 2015. She graduated High School from Waldorf School in Zeist, The Netherlands and has a B.S in Education and Mathematics from Marymount College in Tarrytown, New York. Her philosophy of teaching is based on valuing the creative potential in each child, offering activities that help foster enthusiastic learning, intellectual growth, self-esteem and social responsibility and to offer a nurturing environment for a healthy development for each child.
“Where is the book in which the teacher can read about what teaching is? The children themselves are this book. We should not learn to teach out of any book other than the one lying open before us and consisting of the children themselves.” – Rudolf Steiner
Myra is a professional member of NAEYC and a Maine Roads to Quality, Level 7.
Away from work, she enjoys traveling, gardening and reading.
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CathleenCathleen is a Green Room Teacher who has worked at The Children’s Center since July 2017. She has been teaching in Early Childhood centers for 22 years, working with children from infants through school age. She has an Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education and Psychology. She believes that children learn best through hands-on experiences, that engage their curiosity, and help them explore their world. With that belief her approach to teaching is to follow the children’s lead, using their interests to build both social and academic skills, while also creating a caring and nurturing community that supports each child’s individual needs.
Outside of teaching, Cathleen enjoys swimming, hiking, and caring for her pets.
Cathleen is a professional member of Maine Roads to Quality, Level 6.
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Anna B. Anna started the summer of 2019 at TCC as a Substitute and accepted the position as Assistant Teacher in the Green Room in August 2023!
She has an Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education, and is currently working towards her Bachelors Degree at SMCC.
Away from work she loves drawing, watching movies and spending time with her family and dog, Sadie.
Red Room- Preschool
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Rita Rita is a Red Room Teacher and has worked at The Children’s Center since 2004. She has a B.A. in Psychology and Elementary Education from Georgian Court College. Her philosophy of teaching is based on creating a safe, happy environment. This allows her to approach each child as an individual and allows her to offer materials that encourage children to explore, investigate, and interact with their peers so that they can grow and develop in all aspects: physically, socially, and emotionally.
“Learning happens when children are offered many opportunities to play and explore the materials around them.”
She is a professional member of NAEYC and Maine Roads to Quality, Level 7.
Away from work, she enjoys spending time with her family and going for walks with her husband.
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Taryn Taryn is a Red Room Teacher and has worked at The Children’s Center since 2020. She has a Bachelor’s Degree in Educational Studies. Her philosophy of teaching includes the belief that children learn best through play, exploration and questioning.
Away from work, she enjoys playing with her 2 cats, spending time with family and cooking for the people that she loves.
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JJJJ started as a full-time substitute teacher in 2022, and in 2023, they transitioned into the role of Red Room Assistant Teacher. JJ earned their GED through the New Hampshire Job Corps, successfully completing the program. Before joining TCC, JJ worked as a floater at a daycare center, where they fell in love with early childhood education.
JJ's educational philosophy centers around allowing children to lead their learning through their interests and explore the world driven by their curiosity.
Outside of TCC, JJ loves to explore nature, read books, go to the gym, spend time with their favorite pet, and enjoy family time.
“Working with children has taught me to appreciate the little things in life, and I’m so proud to be a part of TCC and help shape the minds of the future.”
Blue Room- Preschool
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Charlie Scalia-Bruce has worked at The Children’s Center since Summer 2021, and recently earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education with an Early Childhood Special Education minor from the University of Maine at Farmington in May 2024. The cores of his teaching philosophy are nurturing empathy, cultivating community, and encouraging independence in his students. He believes that with the right balance of close support and room to grow, a child is capable of anything they set their mind to.
"When the school introduces and trains each child of society into membership within such a little community, saturating him with the spirit of service, and providing him with the instruments of effective self-direction, we shall have the deepest and best guarantee of a larger society which is worthy, lovely and harmonious.” -John Dewey
Outside of the classroom; Charlie enjoys reading comics, biking around Portland, and collaging.
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MeghanMeghan Gilley is a Lead Blue Room teacher. She has an associates degree in Early Childhood Education from Southern Maine Community College and is currently working towards her bachelors in ECE from University of Maine Farmington.
Meghan started at TCC in December 2019. Meghan has been an assistant teacher in both the Yellow and Purple rooms, and was a Lead Toddler teacher in the Yellow room for the 23/24 school year. Meghan believes that children learn best through play, with the nurturing guidance of an educator. That children should be given many opportunities to explore and engage with the natural environment. And that each child is unique and should be met where they are.
Outside of work Meghan can be found hiking or running with her dogs, reading a book, or spending time with her daughter Violet (blue and yellow room alum).
Meghan is a Maine Roads to Quality level 6.
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Ivan Ivan is the Blue Room Assistant Educator and has been at The Children’s Center since 2017. He has a Bachelor's in Animation from Westwood College in Chicago. His philosophy of teaching is that children learn through play. He enjoys teaching children through art and brings his expertise to the classroom. He is an active member of Maine Roads to Quality.
Away from work, Ivan enjoys spending time with his family, drawing, playing video games, pottery, and biking.
Pre-K
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Cristel Cristel started at The Children’s Center in the summer of 2020. She graduated from the University of Southern Maine with a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Elementary Education. She holds her state of Maine teaching certificate in Elementary Education, but her true passion is early childhood with over 12 years of teaching experience as a Pre-K teacher.
She received National recognition for Excellence in Teaching in 2016. She believes that young children learn best through play and meaningful engaging experiences. She is passionate about creating a nurturing and inspiring environment and planning engaging hands-on activities.
When Cristel is not teaching she enjoys working in her garden at her home in Biddeford, traveling with her husband, swimming, cooking and spending time with friends and family!
Away from work, she enjoys playing with her 2 cats, spending time with family and cooking for the people that she loves.
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TaylorTaylor, our newest addition to the PreK Room, holds a master's degree in gender history and a bachelor's degree in women and gender studies and sociology. With several years of experience in the Early Childhood Education field, Taylor is passionate about nurturing children's creativity and fostering their social-emotional skills.
Taylor is currently a level 5 on Maine Roads to Quality. Outside of work, she enjoys playing the guitar, spending quality time with her family, and exploring new destinations through her love for travel. Taylor also loves spending time with her cat, Minnie.
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Hailey I’m Hailey, an Early Childhood Education graduate from the University of Maine at Farmington. Farmington, ME, is where I grew up, but I’m ready to explore the southern Maine area and kick-start my teaching career! I’ve always been drawn to working with kids—from babysitting to high school's Early Childhood vocational program to numerous practicum experiences and student teaching.
I love nurturing children's curiosity and creativity. It’s why, as a budding educator, I prioritize free-play experiences that ignite their interests. Kids should be free to explore and learn foundational skills alongside teachers. Outside of teaching, nature calls! Hiking, kayaking, collecting rocks, beach days—I’m all in! Surrounding myself with children, nature, friends, and family brings me the most joy
Excited to join The Children’s Center, where I’ll collaborate with passionate educators and inspire wonderful students!
Administration
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Anne Anne began her career by working as a camp counselor for many years. After graduating from undergrad, Anne moved to the Czech Republic and taught English in a preschool for three years. This experience sparked interest in Early Childhood Education and prompted Anne to go back to school for Education. She has a B.A. in Music and a Masters in Elementary Education, both from DePaul University in Chicago.
Shortly after moving to Maine, she found the Children’s Center in 2015. She is thrilled to have found a community of people who are so devoted to children and their families. In her free time, Anne loves spending time with her family, learning how to garden, spending time outdoors and reading. Anne is a professional member of Maine Roads to Quality, Level 8.
“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” -Maya Angelou
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Kailyn Hello, my name is Kailyn Se, and I am the Assistant Director here at TCC. I studied Early Childhood Education at Southern Maine Community College and the University of Maine at Farmington. I have been in the field for over 12 years, starting as an infant teacher before transitioning to Pre-K and then moving into my current role. I have been at TCC since 2019.
My husband, Jeff, and I live in Biddeford with our two boys, Maddan (12 years old) and Theodore (5 years old). We have a Catahoula Leopard Plott Hound mix named Inka and a tuxedo kitten named Peter. When I am not at work, you can find me cheering Maddan on at one of his sporting events (football, basketball, and baseball), swimming in the ocean with Theo, or curled up reading a book or watching Harry Potter.
I am a professional member of Maine Roads to Quality, Level 6. I am also a member of NAEYC, MaineAEYC, and MeECO.
I believe the classroom environment sets the tone for learning and extends beyond the classroom walls. Every child deserves respect and thrives through hands-on experiences and active participation. By learning alongside the children, we create a dynamic and responsive educational experience that fosters curiosity, independence, and growth.
"Play is the highest form of research." - Albert Einstein
Full-Time Floaters
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Alexandra Alexandra brings enthusiasm and a commitment to nurturing your child’s development positively. They graduated from Deering High School in 2022. Alexandra has had many years of experience with foster children, ages newborn to around 10. Alexandra believes that children learn through imitation, and if we set positive examples and show children that we can learn with them, it fosters an empathetic and understanding learning environment.
In their free time, they enjoy crocheting, embroidery, and sewing.
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Kalah Kalah Patterson is of our full-time floaters and has worked at The Children’s Center since 2/25/19. Kalah has her (CDA) Credential for Child Development Associate and is part of Maine Roads to Quality. Kalah’s philosophy of teaching includes creating a safe and happy environment where students can explore materials and learn through play.
“The art of teaching is the art of assisting discovery.”
Away from work, Kalah enjoys spending time with her partner Josh, her nephew and her family. After work, you can find her at the gym or reading a book.
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SabrinaMy name is Sabrina May, and I am a Floating Teacher! Working with children has always been my passion, which is why i’m pursuing a bachelor's degree in Child Development. I have been working with kids throughout high school and college, with 5 years of babysitting experience; working with children of all ages. Additionally, I’ve assisted a Behavioral Health Professional supporting students with developmental challenges. I have also worked as an assistant infant teacher at another daycare! Over the years, I’ve learned the importance of creating an inviting and open environment, encouraging project-based learning, and involving teachers, parents and the community in child’s growth and education. My long-term goal is to become a pediatric physical therapist. In my free time, I enjoy hiking, fishing, and going to the beach!
Substitute Educators
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Bridget Bridget has been a joyful presence at TCC for the past 3 years. She loves to play and learn with your children.
Bridget graduated from Yarmouth High School and Strive U, and is First Aid and CPR certified. She loves children, and wants to encourage them to be kids! Play, explore, run, dance and get energy out in a positive and safe way.
Away from work she enjoys spending time with family, friends, and her cat, Katie. She loves going to the beach, surfing, and dancing.
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Maeve joined TCC Minis in May of 2024.
She graduated in 2022 from Waynflete, and is looking forward to starting college in the fall at Emerson in Boston, majoring in Creative Writing,
At Waynflete, Maeve worked at the after school dance program, teaching children, ages ranging from toddlers to middle school how to express themselves through dance.
Away from work, Maeve enjoys dancing, baking, and spending time outside with her friends.
