April 2025 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. For April, we’re excited to announce that our 2025 April National Teacher of the Month is Ms. Sydney from Little Sunshine’s Playhouse of The Woodlands.

The leadership team at The Woodlands had such kind words to share about Ms. Sydney, saying: “We’re thrilled to celebrate Sydney as our April Teacher of the Month! Known as the tamer of toddlers and a true child whisperer, Ms. Sydney brings joy, patience, and a contagious smile to everything she does. Before finding her forever home in Hundred Acre Wood last year, Sydney was our go-to gal—cheerfully bouncing from classroom to classroom, always ready to help wherever she was needed. Her can-do attitude and warm presence make her a favorite among students and staff alike.”

What age group do you teach?
Toddlers

What is the name of your classroom?
Hundred Acre Wood

What do you love most about the age group you teach?
Their energy is contagious! Toddlers have the most incredible personalities, and every day I get a glimpse of the amazing people they are growing into. They are so affectionate—it’s nearly impossible to have a bad day when you’re greeted by 16 shining faces beaming up at you each morning. My littles love to learn, and it’s always such a joy to see that spark in their eyes when they discover something new. Watching those moments of realization and pride is one of the best parts of what I do.

What is your favorite curriculum project you’ve ever done in your classroom?
We love hands on learning, and toddlers love to get messy! During our “Dig into Paleontology” theme, we had a shaving cream sensory bin with dinosaurs hidden inside. The kiddos had a variety of tools to use to excavate their dinosaurs from the bin – they loved it!

What do you enjoy most about working at Little Sunshine’s Playhouse?
One of the things I value most is the collaboration we share as educators. I love that we can connect, share ideas, and inspire one another. Whether we’re brainstorming lesson plans or problem-solving together, it’s energizing to work alongside others who are just as passionate about early childhood education. That shared creativity and support make our work even more impactful—for us and for our students.

What made you want to become an early childhood educator?
Helping the next generation grow and learn is truly magical to me. Every day is an opportunity to plant the seeds of curiosity, creativity, and confidence. I hope to inspire a lifelong love of learning in our students—one that will carry them far beyond the classroom and help them thrive in whatever path they choose.

Who and/or what inspires you and why?
I am constantly inspired by our team. The connections I’ve forged with the rest of my LSP family mean so much to me. There’s a deep sense of trust, collaboration, and shared purpose that makes our work incredibly meaningful. I find myself continually learning from them, drawing inspiration from their passion, creativity, and dedication to our students.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
Outside of the classroom, I love going to the beach and spending time with friends. Whether it’s relaxing by the ocean or enjoying good company, those moments help me recharge and bring balance to my busy days.

Tell us one special fact about yourself that no one would expect.
I have never broken a bone!

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!

Kim V. – Arvada

Hannah N. – Broomfield

Sarah D. – Chesterfield

Diana Avila G. – Colorado Springs (Cheyenne Mountain)

Devin M. – Creve Coeur

Amy P. – Cumming

Kristen H. – Elkhorn North

Mariah G. – Elkhorn South

Ella M. – Erie

Ella M. – Four Points

Avantika T. – Franklin

Re’shon M. – Gilbert – Higley

Mon C. – Gilbert – Val Vista

Taylor M. – Granite Bay

Sammy W. – Lake St. Louis

Jeremiah M. – Lakeway

Autumn S. – Leawood

Emily H. – Littleton

Nanseera W. – Mt. Juliet

Bella S.  – O’Fallon

Nora S. – Overland Park

Jerika B. – Ozark

Erin V. – Parker

Hannah K. – Rogers

Rosa A. – Roswell

Kianna H. – San Antonio – Dominion

Shaheen F. – San Antonio – Stone Oak

Mariia V. – Schaumburg

Shelbi B. – Scottsdale

Pamela C. – Southlake

Lylie H. – Springfield I

Hailea H. – Springfield II

Jennifer L. – Springfield III

Niya A. – University City

Janeth T. – Willowbrook