Meet our Pre-K Teachers
Ashlyn Utterback
What inspired you to work in early childhood education?
Ever since I was young I have always loved working with children. In high school I was given the chance to get my CDA which truly showed me how much I love the teaching field and working with children and helping them grow!
How long have you been working in early childhood education?
This is my first year as a licensed teacher, but I have been working in early childhood education since I was a junior in high school! In high school I got my CDA and then I attended St. Ambrose University where I got my bachelors in Early Childhood Education along with a minor in Special Education.
What’s your favorite memory from working at Hand in Hand?
My favorite memory while working at Hand in Hand is honestly all the connections I have made with the kiddos. Just being apart of the kids’ lives and watching them grow is the most rewarding part of the job.
What do you think is most important for children to learn in preschool?
I think Social-Emotional learning is very important in preschool. It helps children learn self awareness, social awareness, relationship skills, decision making and so much more which is very important for education and growth.
What strategies do you use to support different learning needs or styles?
Differentiated instruction is the teaching style that I use and find most effective in the classroom. This form of instruction allows choice for the students, along with different ways that the lesson can be presented and taught to the students to best fit their needs.
What’s your favorite activity to do with the kids?
Karaoke and a dance party might have to be my favorite activity to do with the kids. This truly gives a chance for the kids to be themselves and show off their personalities or a side of them that we may have not seen yet. It also allows them to be creative and use their imagination.
What would you say to a parent who is nervous about sending their child to preschool for the first time?
It is completely normal to feel nervous about sending your child to preschool. It is a big step for both you and your child. We are here to help you and your child through the transition to preschool.
What advice do you give parents to support their child’s learning at home?
Praise effort, not only results, mistakes are a part of learning. Incorporate learning into daily activities you may do, such as counting items, and spelling words.
Lauren Norcross
What inspired you to work in early childhood education?
I have always had a passion for teaching and have known that I wanted to be a teacher ever since my kindergarten teacher asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up. Additionally, I was inspired by the teachers I had in my youth. One teacher, in particular, was always there for me during my challenging school years. She discovered strategies that helped me learn most effectively. I have always stated that I want to be that teacher who finds strategies and accommodations that work to help children succeed. Working with children is a gift for which I am truly blessed.
How long have you been working in early childhood education?
I have worked in the early childhood field for 12 years. I began in childcare as a college student while attending Hawkeye Community College in Waterloo, Iowa, where I ultimately earned my Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Education. Later, I transferred to Saint Ambrose University, where I completed several general education courses. I have also served as a paraprofessional at a local private school and as the supervisor of the after-school program. I will complete my degree at Upper Iowa University in October, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Birth through Third Grade, Inclusive Setting, with a Special Education Interventionist Endorsement. I have been teaching in preschool for about six years.
What’s your favorite memory from working at Hand in Hand?
My favorite memory at Hand in Hand has been facilitating Theme Days at the end of the preschool year. We create fun theme days and conclude our academic school year with many celebrations. I also love seeing the joy on the children’s faces during graduation, and I enjoy having dance parties with them!
What do you think is most important for children to learn in preschool?
The most important thing for children to learn in preschool is social-emotional skills. This means that children learn how to interact with their peers, manage their feelings, identify their emotions, and develop strategies for self-regulation. I believe in educating children with developmentally appropriate and hands-on materials that will prepare them for kindergarten.
What strategies do you use to support different learning needs or styles?
In our preschool classroom, we support diverse learning needs by personalizing lessons and activities. We provide content at each child's level and incorporate their interests. Children learn through culture, daily routines, and their environment. Preschoolers also engage in large group activities, small group time, and individual sessions with the teacher, focusing on developing their unique skills.
What’s your favorite activity to do with the kids?
My favorite activity is reading to preschoolers, whether in a large group or individually. I get very enthusiastic when reading and love seeing their excitement as well! I also enjoy planning and conducting what we call “special activities” with them. One example is the GLOW PARTY! Friends had a blast wearing glow sticks, neon clothes, applying glow-in-the-dark tattoos, and dancing their little feet off.
What would you say to a parent who is nervous about sending their child to preschool for the first time?
First, it’s perfectly okay to feel nervous! Sending your child to preschool is a big change. Always maintain communication with your child’s teacher. If your child feels anxious, pack something in their backpack that brings comfort (like a stuffed animal or lovey). Get involved in your child’s learning. Read our newsletters, lesson plans, and letters sent home. Parents play a significant role in their child’s education, which will help you feel confident about your child’s academic progress and engage you in what’s being taught in the classroom. Check out our app, “Brightwheel,” and review their daily report. Teachers will do their best to post photos and share daily activities.
What advice do you give parents to support their child’s learning at home?
There are numerous ways parents can support their children at home. Reading with your child is one essential activity that can be done daily. Encourage your child to identify letters around the house, at the grocery store, or on a restaurant menu. Additionally, parents can support their children by engaging in conversations about the topics being covered in school.
Christine Axness
What inspired you to work in early childhood education?
When I was growing up, I had two amazing teachers who poured so much sweat and tears into my learning. Without them there would have been times I would have given up on my learning. I want to be one of the amazing teachers just like the ones I had when I was growing up.
How long have you been working in early childhood education?
I have been at Hand in Hand for 2.5 years. Prior to that, I worked as a special education para for 2 years, and respite care for 2 years.
What’s your favorite memory from working at Hand in Hand?
The many many hugs I receive from being gone for even just one day!
What do you think is most important for children to learn in preschool?
Social and emotional skills. When a child is given the skills, they need to handle those big feelings, knowing what is a safe and unsafe situation, and knowing when to ask for help, they will be able to use these skills as they continue their education and every day activities.
What strategies do you use to support different learning needs or styles?
Getting to know each child just like you would want a teacher to get to know your own child. Really understanding what that child needs to get exactly what they need and working together with your teacher team to see how we can assure they are able to get 100% out of their day.
What’s your favorite activity to do with the kids?
Art! I love watching their creative minds come to life every day with their art work.
What would you say to a parent who is nervous about sending their child to preschool for the first time?
In our room, we treat each child like they are our own.
What advice do you give parents to support their child’s learning at home?
Be involved in your child’s learning, spend some time to know what they are working on in Preschool and take some time to work on that with them at home.
From left to right: Lauren Norcross, Christine Axness, Michael Sims, Adrianna Cash, and Nicole Smith
Michael Sims
What inspired you to work in early childhood education?
It’s something I really enjoy doing. My mom also works in education so I’m comfortable and familiar with the environment.
How long have you been working in early childhood education?
I have worked or have been involved in childcare for 4 years, since the age of 13. I have only worked in early childhood education for 4 months. I find it very enjoyable!
What’s your favorite memory from working at Hand in Hand?
Reading a former student to sleep on graduation day.
What do you think is most important for children to learn in preschool?
Empathy, to understand what they do or say can affect others.
What strategies do you use to support different learning needs or styles?
Giving them some extra one on one time. Teaching ways of expressing how they feel or what they need.
What is your favorite activity to do with the kids?
Coloring and reading. Anything that is more laid back and low energy.
What would you say to a parent who is nervous about sending their child to preschool for the first time?
I would listen to their concerns and address any they have. I would remind them we can provide real time updates and photos if they feel nervous after drop off.
What advice do you give to parents to support their child’s learning at home?
Read to them! Our students love our educational books. Let them ask lots of questions, it’s how they learn.
Adrianna Cash
What inspired you to work in early childhood education?
I enjoy working with kids.
How long have you been working in early childhood education?
Almost a year
What’s your favorite memory from working at Hand in Hand?
Spring clean-up day all the kids being big helpers!!
What do you think is most important for children to learn in preschool?
Manners, Sharing, Communication.
What strategies do you use to support different learning needs or styles?
Use their words, letting them choose, being patient with the children, watching closely, calm their body.
What is your favorite activity to do with the kids?
Being outdoors with the children, story time.
What would you say to a parent who is nervous about sending their child to preschool for the first time?
It's completely normal to feel nervous!! This is a step towards growing for your child.
What advice do you give parents to support their child’s learning at home?
I would tell them to work with their child as much as they can and being involved with what they're learning in Pre School.
Nicole Smith
What inspired you to work in early childhood education?
I would have to say I realize how important it is for kids that have teachers who are there to talk to and help you learn.
How long have you been working in early childhood education?
4 years
What’s your favorite memory from working at Hand in Hand?
The times I get to know the kids during play time and snack time
What do you think is most important for children to learn in preschool?
The basics of the alphabet and also how to sit still during teaching time
What strategies do you use to support different learning needs or styles?
Conscious discipline , etc
What is your favorite activity to do with the kids?
Play-doh . Playing kitchen. Activity learning games
What would you say to a parent who is nervous about sending their child to preschool for the first time?
I would share with them about how to use our Brightwheel app to keep parents updated .
What advice do you give parents to support their child’s learning at home?
I would have them ask their child when they came home what they learned that day.