Favorite Book: Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak

Dr. Pallas has been the Director of Baby Gator since 2003. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education, Masters of Science degree in Special Education and a Ph.D. in Early Childhood Special Education. In her 25 years in the early childhood field she has been a teacher, early interventionist, inclusion specialist, director, college professor and author. Her research has focused on the process of change in the school setting and the implementation of inclusion. As the Director, she addresses daily challenges and the delights of helping children and teachers grow, learn and achieve their dreams and desires.

Favorite Book: Merrylegs by Paul Brown

Diane joined the Baby Gator team in June of 2011.  She holds BS in Social Studies Education from Florida International University.  Diane has over 30 years of child care experience.  She has owned her own preschool for 26 years in Homestead, Fl, was the Director at CCLC and has joined the Baby Gator team as the Assistant Director of Educational Programming.

In her spare time, Diane enjoys being athletic as a swimming instructor, owning and riding horses, living a healthy life and loving everything about school and learning new things every day.

Favorite Book: The Secret River by Marjorie K. Rawlings

Stacy rejoined Baby Gator in the summer of 2008 after completing her Ph.D. in Early Childhood Education from the University of Florida. Stacy holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Resource Development and Master of Science degree in Family and Child Development all from the University of Florida.

Some of her past experiences working with young children include team teaching in the Little Gator classroom and working a variety of preschools in the area. Stacy has also taught social development, early childhood curriculum, math and science, and creativity to pre-service teachers in the Early Childhood department at the College of Education at the University of Florida.

Stacy brings creativity and imagination to her teaching by challenging the children she works with. In addition to enjoying her days with the children in Future Gators, she enjoys reading fiction novels, playing golf, and cooking.

Favorite Book: James and the Giant Peach by Ronald Dahl

Melinda has been with Baby Gator since January 2006. She was a team teacher in the Little Gators and in February of 2007 she moved into an administrative role. She has 10 years experience working in early childhood. She graduated from the University of Akron ( Ohio) with a Bachelor of Arts in Child and Family Development. She oversees the Baby Gator waiting list and enrollment procedures.

In her spare time she enjoys using her kitchen gadgets to cook and bake and spending time with her family.

Favorite Book: The Day the Teacher Went Bananas by James Howe

Kelly has been with Baby Gator since 2005. She graduated from the University of Florida with a Bachelor of Science in Family, Youth and Community Science and a Masters degree in Health Education and Behavior.  Kelly started Baby Gator as a teacher then became the Health Education Coordinator where she developed the P.H.I.T. Kids program (Physical, Healthy, Interactive Training for Kids).  She has been working with children of all ages for over 15 years and has a real passion for helping children and families develop healthy lifestyles.

Outside of the classroom she enjoys spending time with family, being outdoors, reading, cooking, and enjoying life.

Joni McReynolds

Admission Registration Coordinator I

Favorite Book: The Little Prince by Antoine de Daint-Exupery

Joni joined Baby Gator in October of 2012.  She holds her Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts from the University of Florida as well as a Child Development Associate Credential.  Joni has over 15 years experience owning her own preschool as well as working in other centers in the Gainesville area.  She believes in gaining a child’s respect while simultaneously providing them with comfort and confidence to learn.

Before opening her preschool, Joni and her husband started a recreational gymnastics business.  Joni is the oldest of five children and the mother of two.  In her spare time she loves attending gator sporting events, listening to music, and quilting. 

Favorite Book: The Little Mouse, the Red Ripe Strawberry and the Big Hungry Bear
by Don Wood

Keri came to Baby Gator in 2007 from the Alachua County School Board.  She has worked in the Alachua county school district as a Head Start teacher and as a paraprofessional in a deaf/hard of hearing program.  Keri has created a full time sign language program at Baby Gator that allows her to work with the children, teachers and families to inform them about the benefits of using American Sign Language (ASL) in a preschool setting.  Keri works with both centers and visits the classrooms weekly.  As a sign language facilitator Keri is also able to offer parent training sessions and has given presentations on sign language and the benefits of using ASL in the classrooms to early childhood professionals on local, state, and national levels.  Keri has recently graduated with her AA in Elementary Education, and is continuing her degree in Early Childhood Development.  Keri’s talents include teaching sign language, singing, and drama.  She enjoys spending time her family and friends, and being outdoors.  She loves to make learning fun through laughing and having fun.  Happy Signing!

Favorite Children's Book: Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown

Anne has been a Baby Gator teacher since 2000 and has been teaching preschool for 30 years.  She has her Associate of Arts degree as a music major from Miami-Dade College, an Associate of Science degree from Santa Fe College in Child Development, a national Child Development Associate Certificate, and a Bachelor of Arts degree with a concentration in Child Development from Charter Oak State College in CT.  Anne is the full-time Music Coordinator at both Baby Gator centers and regularly brings her talents on the guitar and piano to the classrooms.  Helping children to develop a love of singing, playing rhythm instruments, and an appreciation for a variety of musical styles has been a passion of hers throughout her teaching career.

In her spare time Anne enjoys reading, sewing, and spending time with her family.

Favorite Children's Book: Mooses Come Walking by Arlo Guthrie

Philip has been the Senior Accountant/ Business Manager since 2007. Philip is a proud graduate of the University of Florida and graduated with a Bachelor in Arts degree in English and a Masters degree in Accounting. He is also a certified public accountant. When not at Baby Gator, Philip enjoys cooking, fishing and photography.

Favorite book:  To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

Carol joined the Baby Gator administrative staff in November 2008 and oversees the daily managerial operations at the Lake Alice center.  Her previous administrative career was in such varied fields as broadcasting, interior design, IT staffing and real estate development.  She has an Associate’s degree and is pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Health Services Administration at Santa Fe College.  Carol enjoys spending time with her family, cooking, music, hiking, and reading. 

Melissa Matthews,

Office Manager

Favorite Book: All By Myself  by: Mercer Mayer

Melissa joined Baby Gator in December of 2012.  She grew up in Nebraska and attended the University of Nebraska- Lincoln studying Dance.  She later transferred to Arizona State University and graduated with her Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Physiology.  She has worked previously for both Arizona State University and the University of Nebraska- Lincoln in Administrative roles. 

Melissa has traveled throughout the years and loves the outdoors.  She enjoys being active and adventurous along with learning new things and volunteering her to time to those in need. 

Layne Brown,
Secretary

Favorite Children’s Book:  The Jolly Postman or Other People’s Letters by Janet & Alen Ahlberg

Layne graduated from St. Johns River State College with her B.A.S. in Organizational Management and has four years prior experience in secretarial work.  She also has experience teaching and mentoring children of all ages through volunteer work at her church and local schools.  Layne enjoys spending time with her husband and playing Frisbee with her three dogs while her six lazy cats watch!

Favorite Book: James and the Giant Peach by Ronald Dahl

Courtney joined Baby Gator in November of 2008.  She recently graduated from the University of Florida with a Master’s of Science Degree in Health Education and Behavior.  She has volunteered at many agencies including the Girls’ Club of Alachua County and the Westside Recreation and Park Center.  Courtney spends much of her time at church singing, mentoring young adolescent girls, and participating in social events supported by the young adult group.  Courtney brings a positive outlook, warmth, and determination to her job. In her spare time she enjoys relaxing at home, family gatherings, and road trips with her friends.

Team Teachers

Favorite Book: Oh the Places you’ll go by Dr. Seuss

Braden joined the Otters class at the Newell Drive Center in August, 2009. She brings five years of experience in early childhood education to Baby Gator, having taught preschool in both Colorado and Texas. She holds a BA in Psychology from Southwestern University.

Braden strives to include sign language and creative art into her daily lessons, believing these tools help to build early literacy and self-confidence in young children.  Braden continues her love of art outside of school through painting and photography. She also enjoys riding her bike and exploring the outdoors in her free time. 

Favorite Book: There's a Bird on Your Head by Mo Williams

Angela joined Baby Gator in March of 2012. She has her Associate degree in Psychology from St. John's River State College as well as her National CDA. Angela has over 25 year of child care experience working with a children of different ages. In her spare time she enjoys science, camping and spending time with her son.

Jacqueline Appling,

Team Teacher

Favorite children’s book:  Brown Bear, Brown Bear What Do You See?  by Bill Martin Jr./Eric Carle

Jacqueline Appling became a Baby Gator Team Teacher in October 2012.  She has a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from the University of Florida as well as a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Saint Leo University.

Jacqueline has over 20 years of experience working with children of various ages and academic levels.  Her goal is to become one person who will make a positive educational difference in the lives of children and their families.

In her spare time, Jackie enjoys teaching, reading, singing, cooking with her family and attending activities with her daughter.

Favorite Book: The Big Orange Splot by Daniel Manus Pinkwater

Alex joined Baby Gator in September of 2010.  She has her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Florida.  Alex comes to Baby Gator with over 2 years experience working with young children.  She also was a research assistant were she assessed and treated children with challenging behaviors and adults with developmental disabilities.  Alex’s goals in the classroom are to provide tools and techniques so children can understand and better control their emotions and to help them develop growing self confidence and self-esteem. 

In her spare time she enjoys reading, listening to music, baking and spending time outdoors. 

Favorite Book:  Madeline by Ludwig Bemelmans

Angie joined the Baby Gator team in May of 2011, and has experience teaching in the Alachua County School district as a substitute teacher K-6th grade. She holds a Bachelor degree in History from the University of Florida.  While pursuing her degree she volunteered in several public schools in Alachua county working with children with special needs and various elementary school students.

Angie enjoys bringing her inner child to the classroom.  She loves singing, dancing and just being silly with the children.  In her spare time she likes reading, listening to music and spending time with her sisters.

Favorite Book: Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak

Ashley joined Baby Gator in June of 2010.  She is currently working towards a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology with a Minor in American History from the University of Florida.  Ashley comes to Baby Gator with over 3 years experience working with young children.  Ashley loves singing and incorporating music in all forms into her classroom.   In her spare time she enjoys spending time with her family, reading and singing.

Favorite Book: Noisy Nora by Rosemary Wells

Drew joined Baby Gator as a Future Gator teacher, and then transferred into the Little Gator Butterfly classroom. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Sociology from the University of Florida. Drew is a creative person and loves inspiring the children through art and music. When not at work, she enjoys spending time with her husband and daughter.

Favorite Book: Chicka Chicka Boom Boom by Bill Martin Jr. & John Archambault

Alyssa joined Baby Gator in June of 2012. She has her Bachelor's degree in Agriculture Education from the University of Florida. Alyssa has 4 years of teaching experience with children from elementary to high school age. Alyssa was also the Head Lacrosse Coach at Eastside High School.

Outside of the classroom, Alyssa's hobbies are reading, arts and crafts, and playing different sports. As a team teacher Alyssa will bring to the classroom a love for teaching and children as well as her outgoing bubbly personality.

Jessica Brock,

Team Teacher

Favorite Book: Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? by Bill Martin Jr.

Jessica joined Baby Gator in October of 2012.  She has her Associates degree in Elementary Education from Santa Fe College and is currently working towards her Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education.  Jessica has three years experience working in childcare with children of different ages.  She also coached High Tide Aquatic Swim Team teaching children to swim for over four years. 

In her spare time she loves to go to the pool or the beach or just spend time with her friends and family. 

Latanya Carter,

Team Teacher

Favorite Book: Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See by Bill Martin Jr./ Eric Carle

Latanya joined Baby Gator in August of 2012.  She has her CDA in infant, toddler and preschool age children and her Montessori teaching certificate.  Latanya has over 14 years experience working with preschool age children.  In her spare time she enjoys playing checkers, bowling, dancing, singing, and crossword puzzles. 

Favorite Book:Llama Llama Mad at Mama by Anna Dewney

Sonia joined the Baby Gator team in March of 2011, and has 14 years of child care experience.  She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Spanish from the University of Florida, an Associate degree in Elementary Education from Santa Fe Community College, her Child Development Associate certificate, a Teaching certificate ages birth through 4 years of age, and a VPK certificate. Some of her past experience in early childhood includes English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) in Levy County, the Department of Education in Puerto Rico, and VPK teaching and tutoring for Alachua County Public schools.

Sonia brings to the classroom her fluency in Spanish and her love for children, new activities, and learning. Along with her constant effort to develop new and exciting learning projects for her students, she devotes much of her spare time to her two teenage girls, her inventing new recipes, and her love for cooking.

Donna Cecere,
Lake Alice

Favorite Book:  Skippy John Jones by  Judy Schachner

Donna joined Baby Gator in June of 2011.  She has her Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education from Saint Leo University.  Donna also holds a Professional Educator teaching license for K-6 with ESOL endorsement for the State of Florida.  Her past experience includes being a camp counselor, after school activity leader and a preschool teacher.

Donna prides herself on being a creative person and strives to accomplish an art project every day in the classroom.  In her spare time she enjoys kayaking, watercolor painting and learning Italian.

Eleshia (Lisa) Crum,
Team Teacher

Favorite Book: Chicka Chicka Boom Boom by Bill Martin, Jr.

Eleshia joined baby Gator the summer of 2012 and has three years of child care experience.  She holds a Child and Family Development Bachelor’s Degree from Georgia Southern University.  Currently she is working on her Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education with Ashford University.  Some of her past experience includes working with both the Head Start and Early Head Start programs in Brunswick, GA.  She also was a toddler teacher at a private child care center in Atlanta, GA.  In her spare time, Eleshia enjoys reading, jogging and spending time with her 5-year old daughter and fiancé.

Favorite Book: You are Special by: Max Lucado

Tracie joined Baby Gator in September of 2010.  She has her Associates of Arts degree in Elementary Education from Santa Fe College.  While pursuing her degree she gained experience working with children throughout Alachua County elementary schools as well as working as a camp counselor.  Tracie enjoys bringing her love of music and art into the classroom. 

In her spare time she enjoys arts and crafts, listening to and playing music, singing, and spending time with her sisters. 

Favorite Book: Goodnight Moon by: Margaret Wise Brown

Mary joined Baby Gator in December of 2012, and has worked in Early Childhood Education since 2008.  She holds a Bachelor’s degree in History and a Master of Education from the University of Florida, as well as a staff credential and Director’s credential.  Her past experience in Early Childhood includes working with many different age groups to administration. 

Mary brings a great love for literacy to the classroom.  She loves sparking a love for reading and books in young children through dialogic reading.  When not teaching, Mary enjoys reading, running, cooking, and spending time with her husband Pat. 

Favorite Book- Horton Hears a Who! by Dr. Seuss

Ari joined Baby Gator in September of 2011 as a full time teacher.  She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Telecommunications from the University of Florida.  As a undergraduate student at UF, Ari volunteered at Baby Gator and later became a substitute .  Over the years, she has gained experience taking care of young children and providing a loving and learning environment.

Ari Brings her love of music and dancing into the classroom.  She also enjoys integrating Spanish and other cultures into the lesson plans.  In her spare time she enjoys listening to music, creative photography, boating and spending time with her family and friends.

Favorite Book: I Love You Because You’re You by Liza Baker

Lisa joined Baby Gator in October of 2009.  She has over 6 years of experience working with young children in early education settings.  Lisa enjoys singing and dancing with the children in her care on a daily basis.  She also likes to incorporate reading to the children.

In her spare time, Lisa enjoyed spending time with her 2 children.  She enjoys learning new things every day.    

Favorite Book: Little Bear by Else Holmelund Minarik

Debbie joined Baby Gator in July 2012.  She has over 20 years experience with children in schools, summer camps, preschool and home settings.  She has a degree in Elementary Education and a minor in art from the University of Wisconsin.  In her spare time she likes to explore and learn from books, traveling, people, new experiences, and watching PBS.

Favorite Book: Unlovable

Cristina Hernandez joined the Baby Gator Sea Horses classroom in September, 2009. She holds two degrees from UF, a Bachelor’s degree in Special Education and a Masters in Early Childhood Education. She was a toddler teacher for several years while completing her college degrees. Her 8 yr old brother has helped her develop her perspective on early childhood education. She loves to learn about languages and incorporates culture into learning in the classroom. In her spare time she spends time with her family and two adorable pugs.

Favorite Book: Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown

Caitlin joined Baby Gator in January of 2011.  She has a Bachelor’s Degree in Linguistics and Portuguese from the University of Florida and holds a National CDA and FCCPC.  Caitlin has been working in early childhood education for over 3 years and brings with her the love for teaching and fun in the classroom. 

In her spare time she loves to make learning fun, sing and dance the Salsa, Bachata and Samba.  She loves to learn about new cultures, enjoys speaking other languages and riding horses which she has been doing for over 17 years.

Favorite Book: Judith Viorst

Jamie has joined the Baby Gator team in July of 2011.  She has received her Bachelor’s Degree in Child Development from FSU.  She has been working in child care for 4 years as a Pre K and first grade teacher.  She enjoys reading to the children and doing fun hands on learning activities.

In her spare time she enjoys reading.

Julie Johnston

Team Teacher

Favorite Book: I Love You as Much by Laura Kraliss Melmed

Julie joined Baby Gator in December of 2012.  She has a Bachelor of Arts in Professional Studies with a concentration in Psychology from Johnson State College and a CDA from the Community College of Vermont.  Julie moved from Proctor, Vermont where she has dedicated 20 years to working in Early Childhood Education in various positions, infant teacher, co-director of a childcare center, a parent educator, and a home school coordinator. 

As an educator and a parent Julie enjoys providing opportunities for children to be exposed to early literacy activities.  In her spare time she enjoys spending time with her family, reading, and running road races. 

Kylie Kates
Team Teacher

Favorite Children’s Book:  Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak

Kylie completed an internship with Baby Gator during the summer and fall of 2012, then graduated from Santa Fe College earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education and an AA degree in Elementary Education.  She brings enthusiasm and fresh ideas to the classroom and her love for children.  In her spare time, Kylie likes watching sports such as baseball and hockey.

Cynthia Cunningham Kirts
Team Teacher

Favorite Book- The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn

Cyndi has joined Baby Gator in July, 2011.  She bring with her 14 years of early childhood experience and a nursing degree from GA State University and Crawford Long School of Nursing.  What Cyndi enjoys most is creating new and fun projects to encourage the children to learn in many different ways.  In her free time she loves to cook and experiment with new recipes, work in her garden and raise orchids.   

Favorite Book: Are You My Mother by Dr. Suess

Tammy joined the Baby Gator team in June of 2011.  She has over 22 years of experience working with young children in early education.  She has worked with children of various ages and enjoys watching them learn and grow.  Tammy enjoys creating a loving and peaceful atmosphere for the children as they learn and grow throughout their daily activities.

In her spare time she enjoys reading books, drawing and being outdoors.

Favorite Book: The Napping House by: Audrey Wood

Jennifer joined Baby Gator in December of 2008.  She holds her Bachelor of Science degree in Early Childhood Education from Kennesaw State University.  She has taught second grade and has also worked as a tutor for all age groups.  She enjoys singing and incorporating  music in all forms into her classroom.  In her spare time, she likes  scrapbooking, exercising and loves to take long walks with her dogs and husband. Jennifer is now enjoying her life as a mom with her son born in January 2011.

Favorite Book: Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak

Rachel joined Baby Gator in September of 2011.  She has an Associates of Arts degree in Social work from Santa Fe College and she also holds a National CDA and FCCDC.  She has worked with children for many years in various child care facilities and church nurseries.  Rachel brings creativity,  nurturing and some Spanish speaking skills to the classroom to encourage children in their growing self-concept.  In her spare time, Rachel enjoys painting, exercising and spending time with her nephews and family.

Favorite Book: Curious George by H.A. Rey

Febi has been a teacher at Baby Gator for 6 ½ years and has been working in childcare for 16 years. She has her Child Development Associate Credential in early childhood from Santa Fe College. Febi brings the gift of music into the classroom through singing and writing songs. She enjoys learning new things and spending time with her family.

Favorite Book: Oh, The Thinks You Can Think! by Dr. Seuss

Kristie joined Baby Gator in December of 2008.  She has her Bachelors Degree in Psychology from the University of Florida.  She has over 4 years of experience in early child care working at the YMCA.  Kristie is very open to new ideas and likes to encourage creativity in the classroom.  In her spare time Kristie enjoys playing Scrabble and other board games.

Favorite Book: Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak

Amber joined Baby Gator in July of 2010.  She has her Associates degree in Elementary Education from Santa Fe College.  Amber has over 4 years of teaching experience in a childcare setting.  She also volunteers with the children’s program in her church.  Amber hopes to bring her love of singing and dancing into her classroom as well as her knowledge of sign language.  In her spare time Amber enjoys singing, dancing and reading.

Favorite Children’s Book- Nora’s Stars by Satomi Ichikawa

Wendy has joined the Baby Gator team in July 2011.  She has a Bachelors Degree in Education with a major in Special Education. from the University of Florida.  Wendy has gained some of her experiences by working in Belgium with the students at the International School and teaching VPK classes.

Wendy is fluent in Spanish and partial Dutch.  She enjoys traveling, cooking and martial arts.

Liz Morchel
Team Teacher

Favorite Children’s Book:  Chrysanthemum by Kevin Henkes

Liz is excited to join Baby Gator as a Team Teacher.  She holds a BA in Early Childhood Education and Art as well as a MAT in Special Education from New Jersey City University.  Liz has had four years of experience in early childhood education, working in a Montessori school and with the early childhood special education department with the Paterson Public School District in New Jersey. 

Liz’s passion for art is incorporated into a lot of her activities with the children.  She also enjoys exploring nature with her class.  Liz enjoys traveling and spending time with friends and family.

Favorite Book: The Monster at the End of this Book by Jon Stone and Michael Smollin

Rayne joined Baby Gator in September of 2010.  She has her Associate of Science degree in Early Childhood Education and an Associate of Arts degree in Elementary Education from Santa Fe College.  Rayne comes to Baby Gator with over 10 years of experience working with young children. 

Rayne got her love of seafood and nature by growing up on the coast of Maine.  She enjoys being with friends and family on the lake, attending Gator sporting events and going out to eat.  Rayne loves photography, music and travel.

Favorite Book:  If You Give a Cat a Cupcake, a Pig a Party, and a Mouse a Cookie by Laura Numeroff

Sherrie joined Baby Gator in December of 2008 from Michigan.  She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education from Oakland University and has over nine years of preschool/kindergarten teaching experience.  Prior to joining Baby Gator, she was a technical writer and trainer but is very happy to return to the classroom where her heart has always been.  Sherrie loves animals, baking, cooking, dancing, music, art, gardening and nature.  Her philosophy is to incorporate all of these loves into the classroom to help children develop in a positive way and enjoy their learning environment.

Patti Pietsch,
Team Teacher

Favorite Book: Sweet Dreams for Little Ones by Michael G. Pappas

Patti joined Baby Gator in June of 2012.  She has her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Florida.  Patti is currently working towards her Child Development Associate Advisor credentials.  She also has over 30 years of experience caring for children of all ages. 

Aside from her passion of working with infants at Baby Gator, Patti enjoys volunteering in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, reading, photography and spending time with her friends and family.

Favorite Book: Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown

Ethel joined Baby Gator in September of 2010.  She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education and has over 10 years of experience working in a preschool/ kindergarten setting.  Ethel loves to paint and sing with the children, she also incorporates Spanish into classroom activities. 

Outside of work she enjoys spending time with her husband and daughter, reading and watching movies. 

Jorge Ruiz
Lake Alice

Favorite Book: The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein

Jorge joined Baby Gator in June 2011.  He has three and a half years of experience working in tutoring programs in public schools and as a camp counselor for children 3-12 years of age in Palmetto Bay camp programs. 

Most recently, Jorge was a 3-year old teacher at the former CCLC.  He is working towards a Bachelors degree in Construction management and Early Childhood Education.   Jorge is an avid skateboarder and also enjoys arts and crafts and lifting weights.  He brings a young and positive energy to the classroom.  In his spare time he also enjoys designing in PhotoShop and AutoCad.

Favorite Book: Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak

Rene joined the Baby Gator teaching staff in 2005. She has been working with children for 14 years. She holds an Associate of Arts degree from Deanza College in California and a Child Development Associate credential. She enjoys animals, cooking, doing artwork, reading, and playing with her two dogs.

Favorite Book:  Corduroy by Don Freeman

Robin has been a Baby Gator teacher since 2005 and has enjoyed working with a variety of age groups.  For the past two years she has been working in the infant room and loving every minute of it.  In the past, Robin worked at a shelter for children ages birth to 14 years old and a transition home for teenaged homeless pregnant mothers.  She has a total of 19 years experience working with children and young adults.  Robin earned her National Child Development Associate Certificate from Sante Fe College and continues to be active in trainings and conferences relating to infants.  In her free time she likes going to the springs, playing pool, BBQ's and spending time with her family! 

Cheryl Suarez
Team Teacher

Favorite Children’s Book- Little Red Hen Makes a Pizza by Philomen Sturges

Cheryl has joined Baby Gator in July, 2011.  She brings with her over 40 years of child care experience working with children of all ages.  She holds and Associates degree in Early Childhood Education from Ashworth University.  What Cheryl offers to the Growing Gator team is a love for teaching, enthusiasm for learning, and sharing with the children the importance of exploring different experiences.  In her free time Cheryl enjoys spending time with her family, riding her bicycle and walking.

Favorite Book:Oh, The Places You'll Go!
by: Dr. Seuss

Bivy joined Baby Gator in November of 2011. She had previously been a teacher in 2008 and we welcome her back. Bivy has her Associate degree in Elementary Education and her teaching certificate from Santa Fe College as well as her Bachelor of Science degree in Family Youth and Community Sciences from the University of Florida. She has worked with children in grades pre-k through second grade, but her 15-year experience in the education field has been with children of all ages.

Among her favorite things are spending time outdoors, the ocean, playing with children and dogs, and live music.

Linda Vellake
Lake Alice

Favorite book:  Clap Hands by Henel Oxenbury

Linda joined Baby Gator in June of 2011.  She has a Bachelor of Science degree in Interior Design from Iowa State University and an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education from Ellis University.  Linda has over 20 years of experience working with young children.  She also raised her daughter who is now a fifth grade teacher at Stephen Foster Elementary.  Linda has a background in drawing and painting.  She enjoys reading about new research and advice on child development.  In her spare time she loves to read, garden, swim and care for her 3 pug dogs.

Favorite Book: The Perfect Nest by Catherine Friend

Kim joined Baby Gator in August of 2009.  She has her National Child Development Associate Certificate from Miami Dade College.  Kim has over 11 years of experience working with children ranging from 2 years to 7 years old.  Kim brings her love of books, art, and science into the classroom every chance that she gets.  In her spare time she enjoys baking, reading, spending time with family and volunteering at Boxer Aid and Rescue Coalition which is a pet rescue organization. 

Favorite Book: How the Elephant Got Its Trunk (A retelling of the Rudyard Kipling Tale by Jean Richards and Illustrated by Norman Gorbaty)

Favorite Children’s Book:  There’s An Alligator Under My Bed by Mercer Mayer

Madelyn moved from Buffalo, NY to Gainesville and joined the Baby Gator staff in November 2012.  She has 15 years of early childhood teaching experience and also several years of teaching experience at the elementary level.   She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from College Misericordia in Dallas, PA and a Master’s Degree in Education from State University of New York at Binghamton.  Her experience in early childhood includes 13 years at Holy Cross Head Start and a few years at different childcare centers in the Buffalo area. 

Madelyn loves working with children of all ages and she especially likes discovering new ideas and projects to help them grow and reach their potential.  In her spare time, she enjoys reading, exercising and spending time with her grandchildren and family.