Staff & Students
Who We AreGrowing and Learning Together, Every Day at Our Learning Centre
Only the BEst
We Know How to Make Learning Fun For Kids
Our team of dedicated staff create a nurturing and stimulating environment that promotes curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking in children. We believe that when children are having fun, they are more motivated to learn and grow.
Our Staff
Our Top-Notch Team
Meet our passionate team
About Michelle DiCarlo
I am the Executive Director of Creative Child Learning Centre. I have been in this role for 25 years.
I have been an Early Childhood Educator for 28 years. As the Executive Director I take great pride knowing that our centres strive for excellence in all we do. We have an amazing team of 30 truly dedicated educators to complement our programs. I truly love my job and feel accomplished each day knowing that I have made a difference in so many children and families lives over the course of my career.
In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my husband and my 2 adult children.
“Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work, the only way to do great work is to love what you do.” – Steve Jobs
About LeeAnn Rossi
I have been employed at Creative Child Learning Centre for 17 years. I can be found in the preschool two classroom or in the Junior school age room at our Stella Maris location.
I graduated from the Early Childhood Education Program in 2000 at St Clair College in Windsor. I have attended many workshops throughout the years and have my First Aid and CPR. I’m also in good
standing with the College of ECE.
My approach to Child Care emphasizes on the importance of play in young children’s learning and development and focuses on creating a child centered environment that promotes exploration, discovery
and creativity while building a strong relationship with children and their parents.
I consider myself a dedicated, passionate, fun and loving educator who has a special bond with each child. I’m always baking something with my preschool and school age children or trying a new adventure
with them.
I have 2 children who are very active, you will either find me on a football field or in a dance studio! I enjoy camping, shoes and making memories with my family wherever that may be. An interesting fact that many
people don’t know about me is that I have my own motorcycle that I ride around the race track.
About Meghan Needham
I am new to the CCLC family. I can be found in the preschool one classroom.
I have been a Personal Support worker since 2021, I am trained in First aid and CPR.
I believe learning in a play based environment is essential for growth in social and emotional development.
Each child is unique with their own interests and ideas, it is important for the children in my care to know they have a voice within the classroom where they can express themselves in a safe environment.
I am a wife and mother of twin boys. I enjoy warm summer days in my gardens, bike rides and nature walks with my family.
About Alex Broderick
I have been employed at the Creative Child Learning Centre for about two years now.
You can find me supporting in all classrooms from infant to pre-school two at the Stella Maris site.
I am currently in the process of completing my second year in the Concurrent Psychology and Bachelor of Education program at the University of Windsor.
Throughout this program thus far and my past childcare experience, I have had many opportunities to gain experience in supporting children of all ages.
It is my belief that children learn best in a safe, welcoming, and inclusive learning atmosphere. I believe that child development is highly influenced by warm, unhurried, responsive and consistent educators. It is essential that the learning environment is emergent with a strong focus on social and emotional learning to best support children in their development.
I believe that I am a very patient and empathetic person that allows me to connect with the families and children in a warm and responsive way.
When I am not working or doing schoolwork I enjoy hanging out with my friends, spending time in the
outdoors and going out for dinner.
About Callie Lowther
I have been a part of the CCLC family for a year now! Currently, I work part-time doing program support at the Stella Maris location. This means that I get to experience each classroom, as well as all that each child and their family within our center has to offer!
I graduated from the Early Childhood Education program at St. Clair College in 2022, receiving Academic Distinction in all four semesters. Previously, I worked for 4 years in a local daycare, providing me with experience in working with children from ages 6 months and up! I am First Aid and CPR certified for infants, children and adults, and am currently involved in the Circle of Security workshop. I am also in Good Standing with the College of Early Childhood Educators.
The approach to childcare that I choose to follow is a play-based, inquiry-based, and child-led approach. I strive to follow the child’s lead in all aspects of the classroom, and I love to build on the moments that I observe during the children’s play. This approach focuses on all areas of a child’s development. To me, the children’s interests and abilities are some of the most important cues to follow.
Personally, I feel that I am a very empathetic, sensitive, and genuine person. I love to take the time to assess and understand each individual child’s emotions and temperament. I make it a point to get on the child’s level, and really connect with who they are and what it is that they need. It’s important to me to get to know each child and their family, and I cannot wait to meet and greet each child and family every day!
Some fun facts about me are that I absolutely love to spend my free time outdoors and in nature. I am a coffee enthusiast, and I love spending quality time with my family and my animals, and I also enjoy spending time volunteering with The House Youth Centre here in Amherstburg, as well as performing and marching with a Windsor-Essex local marching band!
About Alexis DiCarlo
I am currently enrolled in the Concurrent Psychology B.Ed./ E.C.E program at University of Windsor and at St. Clair college I will receive a diploma in Early Childhood Education alongside my teaching certificate.
I have been working at Creative Child Learning Centre for two years. I spend most of my time in the senior room working latchkey and summer camp.
As an educator I also believe in building trust in the minds of children should be the
number one focus, so that children will reach out to us with confidence, whenever they need the support. I strive to hold that belief consistently throughout my career.
In my free time I enjoy spending my time on the softball diamond. I most recently
finished a successful season with St Clair Saints with a 32-0 season!
About Carlie Duffy
I have worked at Creative Child Learning Centre for the last 2 years. I work at the Stella Maris location where I spend most of my time in the junior latchkey room as well as the summer camp. I am currently in my third year of the Concurrent Psychology B.Ed./E.C.E program at the University of Windsor.
I am currently in my third year of the Concurrent Psychology B.Ed./E.C.E program at the University of Windsor.
I believe in forming a child centered environment that allows the children to explore and offers them freedom and creativity. I love getting to watch children grow, learn, and have fun along the way!
In my free time I enjoy drag racing with my family and spend most of my weekends during the summer at Grandbend Motorplex!
About Chloe Dupuis
I have been working at CCLC for about 2 years now, but have been in the field for 6 years. I am in the preschool two classroom at the Murray Street location.
I graduated from St. Clair College with a diploma in Educational Support in 2017 where I specialized in working with children with disabilities. I have been working with children since a young age through babysitting, placements in high school and college, respite and volunteer work.
I believe the best way for a child to learn is by creating opportunies for creative play and hands on learning in the classroom. I enjoy setting up dramatic play centers based on children’s interests, and having open-ended activties to encourage imagination.
I consider myself to be very soft spoken, empathetic and understanding towards all children and their individual needs. My favourite part of the day is circle time, I love to sign songs, read stories and encourage learning through movement.
I have one beautiful daughter. During my free time I enjoy baking, watching movies and spending time with family and friends.
About Laurie Ouellette
I currently work as a fulltime teacher in the infant room, at the Stella Maris location.
I graduated from the Early Childhood Education program at St Clair College. I have worked as an ECE for the past 23 years, with 16 of those years being with Creative Child Learning Centre. I am certified in CPR and First Aid and I have completed the Hanen Program “Learning Language and Loving It”.
I believe in a hands-on approach to learning, where children can actively explore their environment. I feel children learn from the examples that are being modeled before them. Children need to feel secure in their environment and look to their caregivers to provide this. I believe this should start right as they arrive, with a warm and welcoming greeting that continues right through until the end of their day.
One of the things I have enjoyed most during my experience in childcare is circle time! I love to sing songs and read stories with enthusiasm and creative expression! I also love seeing a child master a new skill and reach new milestones.
When I’m not spending time with my 3 children, I can be found exploring new coffee shops, writing, enjoying architecture in New places and photography. Fun fact, I can often be found riding on the back of a motorcycle during the warmer months!
About Stephanie Rebidoux
My name is Stephanie, or more commonly known to the children as “Miss Steph”. I work fulltime in the infant classroom, at the Stella Maris site
I have been working in the field of Early Childhood Education for the past 29 years. Twenty four of those years have been spent working at CCLC.
I am a graduate of the ECE program at St Clair College. As well, I have completed the Circle of Security workshop and many others. I am CPR and First aid certified too.
I believe hands down that children learn through sensory experiences and by exploring the world around them by using their 5 senses. I also believe that I provide the children in my care with patience and nurturing that will help them grow and develop successfully.
I am enthusiastic and love spending my days with the infants outside in the yard, going for walks or singing songs, such as The Wheels on The Bus. I also enjoy reading books with the babies. My favourites are Brown Bear, Brown Bear and Bigger Digger!
When I’m not at work, I enjoy spending time with my family or doing yoga. I am a busy Mother of 3 who enjoys craft projects, reading and playing outside with my dog Pita!
About Lisa Roehler
My name is Lisa and currently I am a fulltime teacher in the Toddler classroom, at Stella Maris.
I am currently enrolled in the Early Childhood Education program, where I am lucky enough to be able to work while I complete my courses. I am new to the field of childcare but I am loving every moment of the time I have spent in it so far!
I am a big believer that children learn best when they feel safe, in a warm and welcoming environment, where they see themselves reflected in that learning environment.
My favourite aspects of childcare are building relationships with the children, guiding them to new learning opportunities based on their skills and interests, as well as watching them grow and learn. I also love reading to the children. My favourite book to read with them is Over In The Meadow.
I worked in the field of esthetics for about 20 years before deciding to make the switch into Early Childhood Education. I love working with children and wanted to be a part of their growth and learning journey!
Outside of my work with children, I love to travel with my Husband and 3 children. I enjoy finding small towns with interesting shops. I love coffee, DIY, playing sports, baking and following my children to different ball diamonds and ice rinks.
About Allison Dufour
I have been working part time at CCLC for about one year now. I am in the preschool 2 room at the Stella Maris location. I bring enthusiasm and a caring nature to our centre.
I graduated from the Early Childhood Education program at St. Clair College in 2022 and from the Autism and Behavioural Science program at St. Clair College in 2023, both with academic distinction. I have gained experience through babysitting, and college placements (kindergarten classroom, before and after school program with YMCA, Summit Centre, and in the GAINS classroom at Anderdon P.S.). I am also taking a Sign Language course and will be furthering my education at the University of Windsor.
I believe that every child is unique and as an educator, I will encourage the children in my care to share their interests, and strengths, and will create fun activities based off their individuality. It is important that children feel safe and comfortable exploring and learning in their environment, and also allowing them to be themselves and play with their peers will do exactly that!
I consider myself to be a kind-hearted, hard-working, fun, trustworthy educator who always walks into the classroom with a warm and welcoming smile and attitude. I want any child in my care to feel safe and secure and have fun while exploring and learning new things. I respect and acknowledge every child’s individuality and strive to bring out the best in everyone!
I love sports and have played many sports growing up such as softball, basketball, and volleyball. In my spare time I enjoy reading, going on walks with my grandmother and my dog, and spending time with my family and friends
About Sydney Emerson
I have been working at CCLC for a year now at the Stella Maris location, you can find me in the Preschool two classroom
I graduated from St. Clair College in 2021 with my diploma in Child and Youth Care. while growing up I babysat a lot and I have worked with children during my placements at the Learning Disability Centre, and an online school in Chatham-Kent. I have also done a lot of volunteer work that involved working with little ones.
My approach to child care is play based learning. Children learn a lot through play by taking turns, sharing, playing with others. It allows them to gain confidence and the chance to adapt to different play.
I believe that I am kind, loving, understanding, energetic and always trying to make the children laugh and have a good time.
Outside of work I enjoy being outdoors, going on walks with my dog. I love playing sports and hanging out with my family and friends. A fun fact about me would be that I played volleyball and softball for St. Clair
About Riley Allen
About Ann Primeau
I have been employed with CCLC for 13 years, and work in the preschool one classroom at our Stella Maris location.
I graduated from the Early Childhood Education program at St.Clair college in 2011.
I take on a play-based learning philosophy. I believe that children learn best through play, and that play helps refine development in all areas.
I am a kindhearted educator with a love for children. I am patient, nurturing and knowledgeable. I love to make people laugh and greet everyone with a big smile.
I am enjoying my life as a new mom. I love to cook, spend time with friends and family and sing silly songs with the children.
About Amie St. Louis
Hello! My name is Amie and I am a full-time toddler room teacher, at our Stella Maris location and I love every minute of it!
I graduated from St Clair College, in the Early Childhood Education program and I have 18 years experience in the childcare field. I have spent the last 17 years working at CCLC and I can’t think of a better workplace to call my home!
I believe children grow and learn through hands-on experiences and a fun and positive learning environment.
I feel I am a welcoming individual with lots of energy and compassion for the children in my care. I love doing crafts and singing songs with the children. I also really enjoy coming up with fun and creative ideas for activities to keep the children engaged and interested. I also believe in the importance of keep children active through music and movement!
In my spare time, I can’t think of a better way to enjoy the day than with my family. I enjoy family vacations and spending time with my 3 children and my husband. I also love to cook and go on new adventures with family and friends!
About Megan Casey
Hello! My name is Megan and I am a teacher in the Pre-school one classroom. I have been working at CCLC for 17 years and in that time have worked with all age groups, from infants to school agers. I graduated from the University of Windsor with a Bachelor in Human Kinetics, but have been working in childcare since I graduated.
I believe that children learn best, when they feel safe and cared for and I pride myself on my ability to be patient and gentle with children to make sure they always feel secure in their exploration.
About Jessica Herdman
Hello! My name is Jessica and I am a teacher in the Infant room. I have been working at CCLC for 15 years. In my many years here I have worked with every age group. I graduated from the University of Windsor with a Bachelor in Human Kinetics, but I found my true passion in Childcare. I truly believe that we, as educators, can learn as much from the children in our care as they can from us – and that is pretty rewarding.
About Lisa Mariuz
I’m the Supervisor at our Stella Maris location and a Registered Early Childhood Educator. I have been employed with Creative Child Learning Centre for 13 years and an educator for the last 20 years.
I have a Bachelor of Arts Degree with a Major in Child Psychology, that I obtained from the University of Windsor. I hold a Diploma in Early Childhood Education from St.Clair College. As well, I have completed the Hanen Program “Learning Language and Loving It” course and “Circle of Security”. I am certified in CPR and First Aid.
I have worked in all classrooms throughout my 20 years from Infant to school age.
I believe children learn best through hands-on experiences and play. Providing endless opportunities for them to explore during their play allows children to build connections, and gives them a better understanding of the world around them. I feel planning activities that foster a child’s ability and creativity is so important when capturing their interests. I love watching a child’s face light up when they have discovered something new or accomplished a difficult task.
I feel I am empathetic and nurturing, both as a person and as an educator. I am also enthusiastic and love planning special days, creating and decorating to further the experience.
I enjoy spending time with my family and my two children. Together, we love to travel on various vacations, explore new places and share new adventures. I also, love going for walks and planning gatherings for my family and friends.
About Samantha Horn
Hello! I am Samantha and I have been a part of the CCLC family since 2019. I am currently at the Murray St. location in the Toddler Room
I graduated from the ECE program here in Windsor at St. Clair College in 2019. Since then, I have done multiple workshops to achieve certificates like ECERS Training and Circle of Security to further enhance my knowledge and education within child care. In the past I have also done community services in my area like my former grade school to help in the kindergarten classrooms and latchkey program!
Early Childhood is where you see the most development in a child’s life. I believe play is the most effective way that a child can learn. As you watch them play, you can see them interact with other children socially and physically, while cognitively learning new ideas from each other and emotionally caring about one another. Connecting with the children and build on their interests will help get closer with the children and have a better understanding of them and how they can learn and expand.
As an educator, I stive to be someone that any child can come to and feel safe. I believe I am a caring, empathetic educator with lots of patience and love to give to the children. I bring happiness into the classroom everyday try to make a positive environment with the people I work with each day.
Some fun facts about me are, I have two cats at home that I adore so much. I love to play card games like Uno or Phase 10! One of my favorite things to do is camp! I love the outdoors and I’m always counting down the days until Summer! My favorite children’s movie is either Toy Story or Wall-E, and my go-to movie snack is always popcorn!
About Tammy Allen
Hi, my name is Tammy I have worked at the Creative Child Learning centre for 23 years. I worked 6 years in the toddler program and then went on to work in the infant program.
I strive to provide a positive and nurturing environment to all children. I believe in always maintaining a consistent and positive relationship with all parents and children to create the best atmosphere for them to grow!
About Morgan Blythe
Hello! My name is Morgan. I have been part of the CCLC family since 2017 so I have been in the field for 6 years. I am currently in the toddler room at the Murray St location.
I graduated from the educational support program at St.Clair college in 2017 specializing in working with children with special needs. I have done multiple workshops like circle of security to
achieve certificates and gain more knowledge within the field. In the past I’ve done my co-ops for school at this location and many other grade schools as well as respite work.
I believe all children learn and grow through play and hands on experiences. Things like gross motor and sensory activities are some of my favorite ways to see children learn and have fun!
I am an empathetic and caring educator with a big heart for children and all their individual needs.
I’m understanding, kind and patient. I love to make people laugh and always give everyone a warm welcome with open arms.
I’m a mom of one handsome little boy, I have a cat and a dog who are like my other children. I love to be outside in the sunshine and enjoy time spent with friends and family. In my spare time I enjoy coloring, cooking, and reading a good book.
About Carolyn Grace
Hello, I am a preschool teacher at the Murray Street location.
I have been working for the Creative Child Learning Centre for 10 years, but have been in the field for 12.
I graduated from St Clair College with a diploma in Early Childhood Education.
I truly believe that hands-on learning and getting messy is the best way for children to learn and grow.
I am an empathetic and caring educator. I’m understanding with every child’s different needs. I always bring humour into the day as well as kindness. Patience is key when working with children.
About Jodi Taylor
Currently I am the Supervisor of the Murray Street location. I have been with Creative Child Learning Centre for more than 10 years. I entered the field because I am very passionate and committed to working with children. Watching them grow day in and day out is very rewarding.
I first took Early Childhood Education 1992-1994 at St Clair College in Windsor. I graduated from the program with honours and received the Student Leadership Award. I have been in the field for more than 25 years and I continue to learn from the children every single day.
I have been in the field long enough to see a variety of changes in the approach we use for the program. One thing that doesn’t change is the uniqueness that each and every child brings to their classroom and the centre. When we view the world through their eyes, the rest is easy.
I believe that I bring a great deal of compassion, patience and energy to work with me. Although my own children are now young adults, I still feel like I treat each child as though they are my own, offering physical comfort and emotional support.
As I mentioned, I am the mom of two grown children. My oldest son is an automotive mechanic and along with his long time girlfriend, they have made me the proud GJ of an incredible grandson. My youngest son is in his 5th year of college in Texas where he is playing baseball for his school and pursuing his education in Sports Injury. My favourite time is spent with family.
About Kristie Motruk
About Sara Petruzzi-Avila
I have been at Creative Child for over one year. You can find me in the Kitchen. I enjoy cooking and exploring new healthy recipes for the children at the daycare.
I have a certificate in Culinary Arts, Food Handlers and Smart Serve. I have been in the field of cooking for over 20yrs. With experiences from being a line cook at Spago Restaurant to Dining Service Manager for Seasons Retirement.
I spend most evenings running the roads for my children’s extra curricular activities. I love spending time with family, friends and entertaining at our house. I’m very friendly and outgoing. I love to make people smile and make sure their bellies are full.
About Phara-Lynn Court
About Tina Leblanc
About Cassidy Skov
About Lauren Bratt
About Jennifer Ferrari
I am a dedicated Early Childhood Educator in the Toddler Room at the Stella Maris location. I provide a safe and positive environment for the children.
I graduated from the Early Childhood Education program at St. Clair College in 2010. I have been working in the field for 13 years and have continued to remain in good standing with the College of Early Childhood Educators.
I believe that children learn best through play. This allows a child to mature and gain the self confidence needed to adapt to new experiences. This philosophy creates multiple opportunities for myself to create and implement activities based on the interest of the children that allows them to develop social, emotional, physical, and cognitive skills.
I consider myself to be a kind and loving educator who loves working with children. I am patient, creative, and supportive. I welcome everyone with open arms, and a smile on my face.
Outside of work, I am a mom of two who loves to be outdoors. You can often find our family camping and exploring new provincial parks.
About Jayden Kehoe
I am support staff mainly at our Murray street location and occasionally at Stella Maris. I have experience in all our rooms from infant to school-age and started working at CCLC after my grade 12 co-operative education placement in 2019.
I am currently finishing the concurrent education program at the University of Windsor. Through this program I have finished the early childhood education program (2021) with academic distinction and completed my BA degree in psychology (2023). My final year in the program will complete my B.Ed in the primary/ junior teaching division. I also have a background of long-term babysitting.
In addition to play-based learning, I have a student-centred approach to childcare that focuses on meeting and including the unique individual needs of each and every child for personal growth and development. It is very important to me to set our students up for success in what they are able to achieve and setting individual goals. I believe that every child can learn just not in the same way or the same day, and that’s okay!
I believe I am a very empathetic and considerate person and greet all the children and their families with a happy smile and genuine care. I am very patient with the children and respect that they have individual emotions and needs. I love having circles and one-on-one time to talk and build relationships with the children.
I like to be creative! Crafting, repurposing, organizing, cooking, you name it! It’s a good thing I’m an educator and put this skill to good use! I also enjoy getting outdoors and moving my body! I often spend my evenings taking a walk or run while listening to audiobooks or music!
About Rachel Beetham
About Riley Allen
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Years Established
Get In Touch
Telephone (Murray St.): 519-736-8400
Telephone (Stella Maris): 519-736-8200
Email: michelle@creativechild.ca
Hours: 6:15 am – 5:30pm Mon-Fri & 6:15am - 3pm Saturday