August 2024 National Teacher of the Month

The Teacher of the Month award is designed to recognize an employee that exemplifies our core values, which are compassion, humility, integrity, loyalty, and discipline. This month we are pleased to announce that our 2024 August National Teacher of the Month is Ms. Lourdes of Little Sunshine’s Playhouse and Preschool of O’Fallon.

In talking about how Ms. Lourdes exemplifies LSP’s core values, Assistant Director, Ms. Kaitlyn said, “We are thrilled to recognize Ms. Lourdes for her incredible dedication, patience, and love for our little ones. With a gentle touch and a heart full of compassion, Ms. Lourdes creates a nurturing and joyful environment where our infants can thrive and grow every day. From soothing lullabies to engaging sensory activities, she goes above and beyond to ensure that each child feels safe, loved, and happy. Ms. Lourdes has been an essential part of our infant program and team since day one. As one of our founding team members, she has played a vital role in shaping the nurturing environment that our program is known for today. Her dedication, warmth, and unwavering commitment have touched the lives of so many little ones and their families.”

What age group do you teach?
Infants

What is the name of your classroom?
Emerald City

What do you love most about the age group you teach?
I love watching the babies learn!  As an Infant teacher I get to watch children learn new skills and experience “firsts”. Also, being part of a child’s growth journey and positively influence children’s futures and shape their young minds. I love that I can engage babies with sensory projects, reading, and singing songs.

What is your favorite curriculum project you’ve ever done in your classroom?
I love doing the seasonal project. I personally enjoyed doing the art show with the babies.

What do you enjoy most about working for LSP?
I enjoy working and taking care of all the infants. Also, I enjoy working daily with excellent colleagues and leadership team. It’s a fun and enrichment place to work with.

What made you want to become an early childhood educator?
I choose to be an early childhood educator to make a difference and have a positive impact on children’s lives and help shape their future. After been in Sales and Marketing for 25 years and moving from Puerto Rico to Missouri, I decided that I wanted a change and something to give to my community.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
I love to travel, cook, walk with my dog, Stanley, and enjoy quality time with my family.

Tell us one special fact about yourself that no one would expect.
A special fact is that I enjoy listening to 80’s music. Next year will be my high school 40-year reunion and it seems like yesterday!

We also want to say congratulations to all the nominees who are listed below. Thank you for all your hard work and dedication!

Becky S. – Alpharetta

Helen M. – Arvada

Shannon R. – Broomfield

Jenna M. – Chesterfield

Lyuba G. – Colorado Springs (Cheyenne Mountain)

Shannon R. – Colorado Springs (Briargate)

Kaylee F. – Creve Coeur

Ladys Z. – Cumming

Banessa M. – Elkhorn North

Haley B. – Four Points

Sammie H. – Franklin

Desirai J. – Gilbert – Higley

Emily E. – Gilbert – Val Vista

Jenny H. – Granite Bay

Rachael G. – Lake St. Louis

Faith T. – Lakeway

Abby S. – Leawood

Rachael B. – Littleton

Jaime D. – Mt. Juliet

Jerry D. – Overland Park

Makenzie M. – Ozark

Nizhoni R. – Parker

Brenna P. – Rogers

Annabella C. – Roswell

Yesenia F. – San Antonio – Dominion

Kendaiziah G. – San Antonio – Stone Oak

Crecia J. – Schaumburg

Haley H. – Scottsdale

Bliss S. – Southlake

Emilee B. – Springfield I

Reagan R – Springfield II

Kaylee F. – Springfield III

Elena K. – The Woodlands

Lisa G. – University City

Joselyn L. – Willowbrook