November 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. We’re excited to announce that our 2025 November National Teacher of the Month is Ms. Irene from Little Sunshine’s Playhouse of Lakeway.

The leadership team at Lakeway had such kind words to share about Ms. Irene, saying: “Ms. Irene’s passion for education and her genuine love for each of her students is undeniable, shining through in everything she does each day. Her dedication creates a warm, nurturing environment where children feel seen, supported, and inspired to grow. Families often reminisce about their child’s time with Ms. Irene long after they’ve moved on, a true testament to the lasting impact she leaves on every little life she touches. We are grateful to celebrate her as our Teacher of the Month.”

What age group do you teach? 

I teach in the infant classroom.

What is the name of your classroom?

My classroom is called Emerald City.

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

I love teaching the infant class because I get to be part of a child’s very first milestones—first smiles, first steps, and first friendships. Being someone they feel safe and loved with is truly special to me.

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

The “passport around the world” activities were some of my favorites!

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

What I enjoy most about LSP is knowing that I’m part of a team that genuinely cares about the children and supports one another.

What made you want to become an early childhood educator?

Growing up, I was a safe space for my sisters, and that experience inspired me to become an early childhood educator. I want every child in my care to feel protected, loved, and encouraged to grow.

Who and/or what inspires you and why?

I am inspired by the love and support of my wife, my mom, and my sisters. They are my biggest motivation and the reason I strive to be better every day.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

Being outdoors, running and weightlifting are big parts of my life. Also reading!

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

I absolutely love dancing. I did it competitively for years when I was younger; I think that’s something most people wouldn’t expect about me.

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  – Becky H.

Briargate – Nonna M.

Broomfield – Hannah R.O.

Cardinal – Madilyn S.

Castle Rock – Madison R.

Chesterfield – Jade H.

Chestnut – Sherry S.

Claremont – Katelyn F.

Creve Coeur – Makiya B.

Cumming – Kristi T.

Dominion – Bianca E.

Elkhorn North – Maya C.

Elkhorn South – Lauren W.

Erie – Nancy M.

Four Points – Lauren P.

Gilbert Val Vista – Estefany J.

Granite Bay – Katie W.

Hendersonville – Reagan H.

Gilbert Higley – Euraja M.

Cheyenne Mountain – Hannah T.

Littleton – Jena C.

Lake St. Louis – Tiffani H.

Leawood – Treza O.

Mt. Juliet – Damonei A.

O’Fallon – Soumya K.

Franklin – Stacey B.

Ozark – Gracie H.

Parker – Sammi S.

Rogers – Brittany F.

Roswell – Ainslie C.

Schaumburg – Maria G.

Scottsdale – Haley H.

Southlake – Sarah C.

Stone Oak – Lola S.M.

Thornton – Ivorie B.

University City – Yolanda C.

Willowbrook – Maya H.

The Woodlands – Esmerelda C.