March 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 March National Teacher of the Month is Ms. Xochitl from Little Sunshine’s Playhouse of Schaumburg.

Those that love Ms. Xochitl at Schaumburg had such kind words to say in light of this honor:

“Congrats Ms. Xochitl on being the Teacher of the Month! Ms. Xochitl is truly family in our eyes. She started off teaching Jeremiah when he was 23 months old. Right before he turned two. I remember all the updates on how he was doing in class what they were working on the funny phrases he was saying and so much more. When Ms. Xochitl left Jeremiah had a really hard time adjusting because they had such a close realtionship. When you came back we were thrilled especially because now you’re teaching Sadie and she loves you just as much as Jeremiah does. You’ve seen and taught both my babies and seen them grow up along away. I remember you seeing Sadie when she was only a couple months old and now she’s walking! You have been there for so many milestones and we are so grateful for you. You always have a smile on your face when you come to work and you are so loving with all the children you work with. We love you and thank you for all that you do.” Love: Dina, Robert, Jeremiah and Sadie

“Ms. Xochitl has been such a wonderful teacher for Sophia. She is always warm, patient, and attentive, and it’s clear that she truly cares about the children in her classroom. Sophia enjoys going to school and often comes home happy and excited about her day, which says a lot about the positive environment Ms. Xochitl creates. We really appreciate the way she supports Sophia’s learning and development while making the classroom feel safe and fun. We are very grateful for everything she does.” – Doan Parents

“Xochitl is an amazing infant teacher who shows incredible care, patience, and love to each child every day. She creates a warm, safe, and nurturing environment where our infants feel comfortable, supported, and able to grow. Her attentiveness and positive energy make such a difference in our classroom, and I truly appreciate her teamwork and dedication. Thank you not only for all that you do, but also for your friendship-it means so much!” – Ms. Joanna

“Xochitl always takes care of the babies with love and patience, creating a warm and happy classroom where everyone feels safe and comfortable. Her kind and caring nature, along with her constant willingness to help, make her a wonderful teacher and a great teammate. Because of her dedication, the children learn, grow, and thrive every day. She truly teaches with her heart, and we are so lucky to have her at LSP. Thank you, Xochi, for your hard work and for making such a meaningful difference every day.” – Ms. SK

We asked our March 2026 National Teacher of the Month, Ms. Xochitl from Schaumburg, a few questions so you could have the opportunity to get to know her better!

What age group do you teach?

I teach our infant classroom.

What is the name of your classroom?

My classroom is called Lilliput.

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

My favorite thing about working with infants is being part of their very first milestones. Especially the bonds you create with each infant.  I love to see them come in with a smile, ready to come to school.

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

I love All about the Forest!

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

My favorite things are the environment and flexibility and the willingness to be able to accommodate to anyone and everyone.

What made you want to become an early childhood educator?

Since I was little, I always enjoyed being with the kids and babies. When invited to birthday parties you can always catch me with the kids instead of the grown ups. The kids follow the same schedule, but they’re never the same. There’s always new beginnings for them, and there’s so many opportunities to teach them new things.

Who and/or what inspires you and why?

The babies inspire me to be better and have more patience every day.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

I enjoy going to the gym.

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

I’m a very energetic and hyper person, and I will always choose positivity over negativity.

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 – Lillie K.

Briargate – Kara P.

Broomfield – Alyssa E.

Cardinal – Desarae B.

Castle Rock – Micah B.

Chesterfield – Emily B.

Chestnut – Ashtyn L.

Claremont – Shannon M.

Creve Coeur – Sydney A.

Dominion – Jack G.

Elkhorn North – Tierney A.

West Omaha – Sophie H.

Erie – Lindsey G.

Four Points – Nikolett R.

Gilbert Val Vista – Monica C.

Granite Bay – Laura W.

Hendersonville – David G.

Gilbert Higley – Jenifer B.

Lakeway – Anna S.

Colorado Springs (Cheyenne Mountain) – Alicia L.

Littleton – Brey B.

Lake St. Louis – Taylor O.

Leawood – Victoria B.

Mt. Juliet – Jasmine P.

O’Fallon – Abi B.

Overland Park – Parker L.

Franklin – Sophia B.

Ozark – Leanna H.

Parker – Ashley M.

Rogers – Erica R.

Roswell – Meghavi P.

Scottsdale – Marisol S.

Southlake – Sonya S.

Stone Oak – Maria R.

The Woodlands – Ariel S.

Thornton – Jordyn S.

University City – Tracy S.

Willowbrook – Paulina S.