Meet Our Staff

Mrs. Anna

Director

I was led to this wonderful preschool 16 years ago by a mommy friend. At that time, I was a young mother of a kindergartner and a toddler. It was the perfect job opportunity for me to be a full-time mom and make a little income. I had no idea I would enjoy my job so much and this would be my lifelong career. Over the years I have had many job titles here at HPGP, but my favorite title is Preschool Teacher. I believe God has given us all a special gift. My special gift is teaching young children and I feel very blessed that God chose this path for me.

Ms. Rai

I have been working at Highlands Precious Gifts for 16 years. I enjoy cooking for the kids and love to see everyone enjoying the snacks I create. I also love to walk on the beach with my dog and enjoy the ocean breeze.

Ms. Natalie

My favorite part of being in the classroom is helping the kids explore the world around them and seeing them celebrate their milestones. I hope to further my education in early childhood education to build on these experiences.

Ms. Emily

I enjoy working with children because there is never a dull moment and everyday is a new adventure! I have already learned so much from the children I've worked with, and I look forward to learning even more in the future!

Ms. Sophia

I am a HPGP alumni Class of 2011. I love working at HPGP in the afternoons. I enjoy working with children of all ages and to watch them grow and learn. In addition to my work here, I am currently attending collage to become a neonatal nurse!

Ms. Eileen

I have been a toddler teacher here at HPGP for 30 years. I love to watch them go through each phase of life and know I was a part of helping them learn and grow! My goal is to spread joy and laughter, to take in each moment knowing it is a gift from God.

Ms. Sydney

I love working with children because I get to watch them grow into their own person. I have been a part of the HPGP family for 7 years now. When I am not teaching, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends on the weekend and visiting Disney.

Ms. Debbie

I started here at Highlands in 2022. When I am not working, I enjoy walking and sitting on the beach. I find working with children particularly rewarding, as I feel there is always something interesting to learn from them.

Ms. Luvleigh

This is my second year working in the afterschool program, a position offered to me after both my little sisters graduated from HPGP. I am a college student studying cardiovascular technology and I have a passion for caring for children. Kids are so much easier to talk to than adults!

Mrs. Kristin

I am a devoted mother of two sons and one grandson. I enjoy teaching the two-year-old's and appreciate seeing the world through a child's perspective.

Ms. Yolanda

I started working at Highlands in 2020. I enjoy teaching because of the time I get to spend with the children, watching them learn and grow. Outside of work, my goals are to enjoy life and relax as much as possible.

Ms. Jenna

Ms. Jessica

I am currently a VPK teacher at HPGP and have over 20 years of experience working in childcare programs. I love what I do. I believe in fostering an environment where children can be themselves while developing their creativity.

I am originally from Superior Wisconsin, but moved to Jacksonville in 2016 to enjoy the best opportunity ever- being grandma to our sweet Erza. Nothing makes me happier than singing silly songs, shaking instruments, blowing bubbles, and dancing with scarves alongside little ones. When I'm home, I love getting crafty.

Mrs. Teresa

Ms. Kierstyn

I have over 35 years of experience working with children of all ages, though my specific passion is working with four and five-year-olds.

I truly love working with children and look forward to the opportunity to care for your little ones.

I have been in childcare for the past four years and truly enjoyed every minute! I always knew I wanted to work with kids ever since my little sister was born! I'm currently a mother of a two year old at HPGP!

While I enjoy working with children of all ages, the two-year-old age group is my favorite.