January 2026 National Teacher of the Month

The Teacher of the Month award is our way of celebrating educators who live out our core values—compassion, humility, integrity, loyalty, and discipline—each and every day. We’re excited to announce that our 2026 January National Teacher of the Month is Ms. Ashley from Little Sunshine’s Playhouse of Thornton.

The leadership team at Thornton had such kind words to say to Ms. Ashley in light of this honor, saying: “Ashley, it has been so wonderful watching you excel and grow during your time at LSP. You bring so much light and warmth to your classroom and our school. Thank you for setting such an amazing example for all of us. We love you so much. Our school would not be the same without you! ”

What age group do you teach? 

I teach in our two’s classroom!

What is the name of your classroom?

The name of my classroom is Ashdown Forest!

What do you love most about the age group you teach?

What I love most about the age group I teach is experiencing the creativity and imagination my kiddos bring each day. It’s a joy to watch them grow into happy, confident individuals. As well with seeing the progress in the children, helping them learn more about themselves, and teaching them how to enjoy and be part of this wonderful community. I also cherish the genuine conversations we share. They’re always so eager to tell their stories and are just as excited to hear mine. I feel super lucky to be part of that journey!

What is your favorite curriculum project you’ve ever done in your classroom?

My favorite curriculum project that I’ve done in my class is when we learned how to make homemade ice cream! The kids had such a BLAST doing it and were so engaged the entire time! They learned how to pour different ingredients into a bowl, mix heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract, and combine it all together. It was such a fun, hands-on experience, and the excitement on their faces was priceless. Truly one of the best/most fun activities! We made a berry flavor; it was super yummy. 🙂

What do you enjoy most about working at Little Sunshine’s Playhouse?

What I enjoy most about working at Little Sunshine’s Playhouse is being able to have the opportunity at work with such a talented team and being able to witness children’s growth and development firsthand. It means a lot to me that these families not only trust me with their children each day, but also truly care about me and go out of their way to offer support. This school is truly amazing, and I’ve had the privilege of forming lasting friendships with my co-teachers and building strong connections with many families.

What made you want to become an early childhood educator?

What I love most about teaching is the joy and purpose it brings to each day. It is so incredibly rewarding when you come into work every morning and the kids light up when they see you. Even the smallest moments, a high five, a curious question, or a proud smile feels incredibly meaningful. Their excitement over the simplest things is absolutely the cutest thing. I also love that I’m always learning right alongside them and making a positive impact on the kiddos.

Who and/or what inspires you and why?

My parents are my biggest inspiration they have always been the best supporters and have been there every step of the way. They are the most hardworking people I know and never give up even when things get rough.They always push me to be my best-self.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

Outside of work, I enjoy going hiking in the mountains, especially during the summer, the sunsets are beautiful. I also love spending time with my family and going out to try new restaurants or dessert places. And I love shopping and doing crafts!

Tell us one special fact about yourself that no one would expect.

One special fact about me is that I have like a mini business with my mom; we are party decorators/bakers. We do balloon garlands, backdrops set ups, and even dessert tables!

We’d also like to extend congratulations to all of this month’s nominees listed below. Thank you for your continued passion and dedication. You are all a vital part of our Little Sunshine’s family!

Arvada – Lindsay W.

Briargate – Grace S.

Broomfield – Kaitlyn T.

Cardinal – Tylar S.

Castle Rock – Klarissa L.

Chesterfield – Justice A.

Chestnut – Joanna A.

Claremont – Cassidy B.

Creve Coeur – Morgan F.

Cumming – Martha A.

Dominion – Kasandra N.

Elkhorn North – Ashlee P.

West Omaha – Chelsea T.

Erie – Jas T.

Four Points – Stephanie M.

Gilbert Val Vista – Jesse V.

Granite Bay – Lindsy M.

Hendersonville – Trenidy A.

Gilbert Higley – Maria B.

Lakeway – Vida K.

Colorado Springs (Cheyenne Mountain) – Elysia G.

Littleton – Stephanie D.

Lake St. Louis – Lauren M.

Leawood – Jessica P.

Mt. Juliet – Monica O.

O’Fallon – Saleena L.

Overland Park – Lauren H.

Franklin – Vanessa B.

Ozark – Scire G.

Parker – Alyssa V.

Rogers – Kassandra G.

Roswell – Madiliene F.

Schaumburg – Ashely J.

Scottsdale – Melanie C.

Southlake – Lori B.

Stone Oak – Karina M.

University City – Victoria S.

Willowbrook – Ashley E.

The Woodlands – Kaliyah J.