January 2025 National Teacher of the Month
The Teacher of the Month award is designed to recognize an employee that exemplifies our core values, which are compassion, humility, integrity, loyalty, and discipline. This month we are pleased to announce that our 2025 January National Teacher of the Month is Ms. Des of Little Sunshine’s Playhouse and Preschool of Scottsdale.
In talking about how Ms. Des exemplifies LSP’s core values, Program Director, Ms. Latryce said, “Ms. Des is, without a doubt, this month’s Teacher of the
Month. Her unwavering commitment to both her students and colleagues is truly remarkable. She consistently goes above and beyond in every aspect of her work, whether it’s staying late to help a struggling student, offering guidance to her peers, or creating an engaging and supportive learning environment for everyone. She has an incredible ability to make each person feel valued, always offering a helping hand to those who need it, no matter how big or small the request. Her dedication, kindness, and tireless effort make her an indispensable part of our school community, and it’s clear that she has earned this recognition. Ms. Des is an inspiring example of what it means to be a caring and exceptional educator.”
What age group do you teach?
Preschool
What is the name of your classroom?
Arendelle
What do you love most about the age group you teach?
I love that their minds are like sponges! They learn so much and soak in so many new skills. I also love that I can learn a lot from them as well, like things they do with their families outside of school and things they enjoy the most.
What is your favorite curriculum project you’ve ever done in your classroom?
Our current curriculum is “Can You Build It? Discovering STEAM Through Construction”! We have been having so much fun building different things and using our imaginations while exploring. I really love that the children have been so excited to use construction related materials during their learning experiences!
What do you enjoy most about working for LSP?
What I love most about working at Little Sunshine’s Playhouse is the bonds you make with your students and parents are long lasting. I love that LSP is such a family-oriented place!
What made you want to become an early childhood educator?
Growing up my mom had a stroke while she was pregnant with my youngest brother, leaving her with brain damage so she couldn’t remember things. I had to step up at a young age to help a lot around the house. This meant I was helping with chores and helping both of my brothers with homework and projects from school. I always loved being that helping hand when I was younger and it kind of just stuck. I have been teaching preschoolers since I graduated high school in 2017, and it’s been so much fun and has opened lots of opportunities for me during my years teaching.
Who and/or what inspires you and why?
What inspires me is the opportunity to change children’s lives for the better! I am planning on continuing school to become a pediatric nurse practitioner. Someday I would like to have my own licensed practice, where I can build long lasting bonds with families who come to make sure their kids are happy and healthy. I just want to help children grow and develop to be the best versions of themselves as they get older.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
Some things I enjoy outside of work are going to escape rooms, traveling with my dog and boyfriend to car events, and going to concerts to listen to live music!
Tell us one special fact about yourself that no one would expect?
One special fact about me is that I am not an Arizona native. I was born and raised in New Jersey. I’m an East Coast girly through and through!
We also want to say congratulations to all the nominees who are listed below. Thank you for all your hard work and dedication!
Jennifer M. – Arvada
Luisa E. – Broomfield
Rian H. – Chesterfield
Seven W. – Colorado Springs (Cheyenne Mountain)
Kimora L. – Colorado Springs (Briargate)
Samaurri F. – Creve Coeur
Swarnalatha P. – Cumming
Ashli M. – Elkhorn North
Sandra O, – Elkhorn South
Emily M. – Erie
Xin W. – Four Points
Nic O. – Franklin
Brianna N. – Gilbert – Higley
Paris P. – Granite Bay
Taylor S. – Lake St. Louis
Alexandra F. – Lakeway
Gina B. – Leawood
Monique M. – Littleton
Kayleigh D. – Mt. Juliet
Crystal H. – O’Fallon
Erin S. – Overland Park
Maegan L. – Ozark
Valentina R. – Parker
Kassandra G. – Rogers
Kira S. – Roswell
Lexie G. – San Antonio – Dominion
Melissa B. – San Antonio – Stone Oak
Elena R. – Schaumburg
Norma S. – Southlake
Beth D. – Springfield I
McKenzie P. – Springfield II
Kierra M. – Springfield III
Carla A. – The Woodlands
Grace L. – University City
Karen F. – Willowbrook
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