Our teachers are passionate, highly-qualified educators, who are forever-learners devoted to the craft of early childhood education. We work together to accomplish our goals and take action to make our community stronger.
"At Early Partners I know that my voice matters, my contributions are important, and that I am truly valued as an educator. I have learned more about child development and child-led learning in one year here, than in the rest of my teaching career. Being part of the Early Partners team inspires me every day to dig deeper into my journey as an educator."
Abby (she/her) is an Instructional Support Teacher at Early Partners. Abby has over 12 years of experience in early childhood education. She has both her Bachelors and Masters degrees in Early Childhood Education from Louisiana State University. She has focused her studies in the Reggio Emilia philosophy to early childhood education and has taught in nature-based settings. She is passionate about sharing her interest in the Reggio Approach, specifically how children have many ways of thinking and learning. She is also an Early Partners parent, with a two year old who loves coming to school each day and will soon share this excitement with his new younger sibling! Abby and her family love going on walks in City Park! You can reach Abby at abby@earlypartners.org.
Aisosa “Sosa” (she/her) is the Operations Manager at Early Partners. She has worked with children for 12 years 4 of which have been in early childhood education. Aisosa graduated from Xavier University of Louisiana with a degree in Public Health Sciences. Aisosa is especially passionate about creating connections with the families and friends of EP. When she’s not at Early Partners, you can find her out and about exploring the city with her foster dog, Elis. You can reach Aisosa at aisosa@earlypartners.org.
Alexus Phillip "Lex" (she/her) is pumped to join the Early Partners team as an Associate teacher in the Azalea classroom. Alexus has been in Early Childhood Education for a while now and is coming on to her 4th year being in the classroom--holding various positions in them. Alexus is currently pursuing her Bachelor’s degree at UNO and majoring in Healthcare Administration. Outside of school Lex is either exploring the world or directing a photoshoot. You can reach Alexus at alexus@earlypartners.org.
Alicia (she/her) is the Jasmine Class Teacher at Early Partners. She has a B.A. in Elementary Education from Nicholls State University and has 16 years of experience teaching in the public school system. Alicia has acquired rigorous training from some of the top performing schools in the city. She is willing to take action to make her community stronger. Alicia is a wife and a mother of 3 children. She and her husband are the owners of Mr. Blue Moving Company. In her free time, Alicia likes to take walks in the park with her social organization. You can reach Alicia at alicia@earlypartners.org.
Allie (she/her) is the/a 3s/4s Teacher at Early Partners. Allie has over 10 years of experience in Education. She has a Masters Degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of New Orleans, and a Bachelor of Philosophy in Interdisciplinary Studies from Miami University. She has also completed extensive training in early literacy intervention and teacher leadership through Texas Women’s university. She is especially passionate about reading and creating with kids. Outside of work she likes to spend time with her family, read books, and make things! She loves taking walks in New Orleans and exploring new places with her family. You can reach Allie at allie@earlypartners.org.
Allison (she/her) is a lead two-year-old teacher in the Magnolia class and the External Relations Manager at Early Partners. Allison has over 14 years of experience in Early Childhood education and Pre-K-12 curriculum design. She has a degree in Anthropology and Environmental Science from Northwestern University and was most recently leading the STEAM and Robotics program at the Louise McGehee School though she is especially passionate about executing high quality early childhood education as the foundation for lifelong learning. She is a certified yoga instructor and outdoor adventure enthusiast. Allison enjoys going to see live music and theater, visiting the library, and trying new restaurants around New Orleans! You can reach Allison at allison@earlypartners.org.
Ana (she/her) is a 2’s Lead Teacher at Early Partners. Ana has over 7 years of experience in Early Childhood Education. She has a BFA from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and is a founding team member at Early Partners. Ana is passionate about Social Emotional Development and Learning. She loves hiking, baking, and playing music with friends. You can find her walking with her dog, Aggie in City Park daily. You can reach Ana at ana@earlypartners.org.
Daniel (he/him) is an associate teacher in the Camellia classroom at Early Partners. He has 5 years of experience in ECE and several more working with children on the autism spectrum one on one. Daniel has a BA in literature from The Evergreen State College and a BS in Communication Disorders from Utah State University. In his spare time, he likes to shoot pool, bake, build or fix things, and walk around the bayou with his dog. You can reach Daniel at daniel@earlypartners.org.
Delphine (she/her) is a teacher in the Azalea classroom at Early Partners. Delphine has over 15 years of experience in the field of Early Childhood Education and over 5 years in Early Childhood Education Administration. She holds 2 Associates Degrees in Child Development, one in infants and toddlers and one in preschool. She studied Theatre Arts at the University of South Carolina, where she received a BA. Delphine is a certified CLASS observer and once served as a LA Pathways Trainer. She believes that every child and every family deserves access to high quality early childhood education, no matter their background, or socioeconomic status and is always excited to share her passionate thoughts surrounding this understanding with whoever will listen. Delphine is an actress and can be seen locally in different plays and commercials. She stars in a YouTube web series entitled “Workdays With Ni’Jay". Delphine is a mom to a teenage son, who is the joy of her life and the very reason she ever stepped foot into the Early Childhood Education field. She enjoys listening to live music and sampling the many restaurants in and around the New Orleans area, especially any type of seafood Po-Boy. You can reach Delphine at del@earlypartners.org.
Dreka (She/Her) is a Whole School Support Teacher and After Care Lead at Early Partners. Dreka has 3 years of experience in Early Childhood Education. Dreka has a Bachelors degree in social work from Jackson State University. Her previous work history includes working as a Mental health therapist in addition to providing ABA therapy for children with autism.Dreka is most passionate about the development of young children and taking every moment as a chance to grow. Dreka enjoys long walks in the park and watching the sunset. You can reach Dreka at dreka@earlypartner.org.
Emma (she/her) is the Instructional Support Teacher at Early Partners. Emma has a a B.A. in American Studies from the University of Michigan and over a decade of teaching experience in Preschool-Kindergarten in New Orleans. Emma boasted the highest CLASS scores in the City while teaching at Bricolage Academy and was a founding EP Teacher. Emma believes access to high quality early childhood education is one of the most important steps in creating truly equitable communities. She is excited to support teachers to develop a program rooted in anti-racist pedagogy, creativity and learning through play. She is also a photographer and a ceramicist who loves to spend time walking and biking in City Park, and catching up with a second line. You can reach Emma at emma@earlypartners.org.
Erin (she/her) is a teacher in the Jasmine classroom at Early Partners. Erin has 13 years of experience in early childhood education. She has a Child Development Associate’s Degree and plans to work towards a Bachelor's degree in Child Development this year. Erin was the Curriculum Director of Abeona House Child Discovery Center for two years before she began her role at Early Partners. Being a neurodivergent learner herself, Erin is passionate about providing learning experiences that reach all children in all of their developmental phases and needs. Erin has two children who attend Early Partners and she and her husband are regular parent volunteers at school. Erin enjoys family time more than anything and wishes she had more time to play music! Erin loves the social warmth and humor of New Orleans and her ideal adventure involves eating, drinking, singing, laughing, dancing and creating fun for her kids in the backyard. You can reach Erin at erin@earlypartners.org.
Flora (she/they) is the Director of Student Success at Early Partners. Flora has over 8 years of experience in education. She has a degree from McGill University and a Masters of Science in Education from John Hopkins University. Flora works across Early Partners to support students, teachers, and families through intervention and resource shares to ensure all students and families have access to high quality early childhood education. Flora is also a facilitator and an artist! You can reach Flora at flora@earlypartners.org.
Ginger (she/her) is a teacher at Early Partners. Ginger has two years of experience in early childhood education. She has a B.S. in music therapy from Georgia College & State University. Ginger believes that an intentional, playful, and child led early childhood education is foundational to a child’s growth and development. She brings her passion for music, art, and movement into the classroom and encourages self expression and exploration. She enjoys walking around the bayou or catching the sunset at the lakefront. You can reach Ginger at ginger@earlypartners.org.
Vikara (Kari) (she/her) is part of the Whole School Support Team at Early Partners. Kari has over three years of experience working with New Orleans youth through the Youth Empowerment Project, Groundwork New Orleans, and Anna’s Place. She is currently pursuing a B.A. in Political Science at the University of New Orleans. Kari is passionate about supporting our educators, children, and families in order to ensure an optimal educational experience for all. During her spare time, she enjoys attending arts festivals, spending time with her family, and exploring the nature that New Orleans and Louisiana have to offer. You can reach Kari at vikara@earlypartners.org.
Kris (she/her) is a teacher in the Hibiscus Classroom at Early Partners. Kris was born and raised in New Orleans, Louisiana and has over a decade of experience in early care and education. She has an A.D. in Applied Science in Care and Development of Young Children and is currently pursuing her B.A. She is passionate about creating operational systems that support teachers to encourage children’s curiosity and explore new and exciting materials. Kristen is a working mom with two kids: an 8th grader and a newborn. She and her daughter enjoy going to the park, riding bikes, feeding ducks, puzzles, and grabbing a snowball from Plum Street. You can reach Kris at kristen@earlypartners.org.
Lauren (she/her) is the head and founder of the Forest School Program at Early Partners. Lauren has over fifteen years of experience working with Early Childhood learners and five years of experience in an educational leadership role. She obtained her BA from University of Puget Sound, Her M.A. Ed from Goddard College and is pursuing a doctorate in Early Childhood Educational Research and Leadership from LSU. Lauren is a New Orleans and native and passionate about sharing the many benefits of outdoor education with community members from the city that raised her. When she is not working, Lauren likes canoeing, seeing live music, and spending time with loved ones. Lauren’s favorite holiday in New Orleans is Mardi Gras. She lives close to many parades and likes to step out on her doorstep with a coffee, watch the parade, and catch some throws. You can reach Lauren at lauren@earlypartners.org.
Leshan Jackson (she /her) is an associate teacher in the Wildflower Class at Early Partners. Leshan has 7 years of experience, beginning in her family-owned daycare/summer camp and continuing through her very own childcare service. She is an avid baker and enjoys making delectable cheesecakes. The rest of her free time is spent cuddling her fur babies (3 cats and a rabbit ) Jett, Maddex, Stormy, and Bun Bun. Leshan can be reached at leshan@earlypartners.org.
Qiana "Que" (she/her) is an associate teacher in the Azalea classroom at Early Partners. Mrs. Que is a wife and mother of 7. Mrs. Que has 3 years of experience in Early Childhood Education. Mrs. Que is a dedicated educator with an unwavering passion for nurturing positivity, actively engaging with young learners, and celebrating the remarkable progress of our little ones. Her commitment to creating a vibrant and enriching early childhood environment is truly inspiring. Que enjoys spending time with her family and cooking. You can reach Qiana at que@earlypartners.org.
Shada (she/her) is a two-year old classroom teacher in the Magnolia classroom. Shada is a mom of two and an Early Partners parent. Shada has a Child Development Associates degree and has over 6 yrs of combined experience in ABA (applied behavior analysis) therapy and early childhood education. In Shada's first year at Early Partners, her class boasted some of the highest Toddler CLASS scores in the city. Shada enjoys spending time with her family and sampling foods at local restaurants in New Orleans. You can reach Shada at shada@earlypartners.org.
Abby (she/her) is an Instructional Support Teacher at Early Partners. Abby has over 12 years of experience in early childhood education. She has both her Bachelors and Masters degrees in Early Childhood Education from Louisiana State University. She has focused her studies in the Reggio Emilia philosophy to early childhood education and has taught in nature-based settings. She is passionate about sharing her interest in the Reggio Approach, specifically how children have many ways of thinking and learning. She is also an Early Partners parent, with a two year old who loves coming to school each day and will soon share this excitement with his new younger sibling! Abby and her family love going on walks in City Park! You can reach Abby at abby@earlypartners.org.
Aisosa “Sosa” (she/her) is the Operations Manager at Early Partners. She has worked with children for 12 years 4 of which have been in early childhood education. Aisosa graduated from Xavier University of Louisiana with a degree in Public Health Sciences. Aisosa is especially passionate about creating connections with the families and friends of EP. When she’s not at Early Partners, you can find her out and about exploring the city with her foster dog, Elis. You can reach Aisosa at aisosa@earlypartners.org.
Alexus Phillip "Lex" (she/her) is pumped to join the Early Partners team as an Associate teacher in the Azalea classroom. Alexus has been in Early Childhood Education for a while now and is coming on to her 4th year being in the classroom--holding various positions in them. Alexus is currently pursuing her Bachelor’s degree at UNO and majoring in Healthcare Administration. Outside of school Lex is either exploring the world or directing a photoshoot. Lex can be reached at alexus@earlypartners.org.
Alicia (she/her) is the Jasmine Class Teacher at Early Partners. She has a B.A. in Elementary Education from Nicholls State University and has 16 years of experience teaching in the public school system. Alicia has acquired rigorous training from some of the top performing schools in the city. She is willing to take action to make her community stronger. Alicia is a wife and a mother of 3 children. She and her husband are the owners of Mr. Blue Moving Company. In her free time, Alicia likes to take walks in the park with her social organization. You can reach Alicia at alicia@earlypartners.org.
Allie (she/her) is the/a 3s/4s Teacher at Early Partners. Allie has over 10 years of experience in Education. She has a Masters Degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of New Orleans, and a Bachelor of Philosophy in Interdisciplinary Studies from Miami University. She has also completed extensive training in early literacy intervention and teacher leadership through Texas Women’s university. She is especially passionate about reading and creating with kids. Outside of work she likes to spend time with her family, read books, and make things! She loves taking walks in New Orleans and exploring new places with her family. You can reach Allie at allie@earlypartners.org.
Allison (she/her) is a lead two-year-old teacher in the Magnolia class and the External Relations Manager at Early Partners. Allison has over 14 years of experience in Early Childhood education and Pre-K-12 curriculum design. She has a degree in Anthropology and Environmental Science from Northwestern University and was most recently leading the STEAM and Robotics program at the Louise McGehee School though she is especially passionate about executing high quality early childhood education as the foundation for lifelong learning. She is a certified yoga instructor and outdoor adventure enthusiast. Allison enjoys going to see live music and theater, visiting the library, and trying new restaurants around New Orleans! You can reach Allison at allison@earlypartners.org.
Ana (she/her) is a 2’s Lead Teacher at Early Partners. Ana has over 7 years of experience in Early Childhood Education. She has a BFA from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and is a founding team member at Early Partners. Ana is passionate about Social Emotional Development and Learning. She loves hiking, baking, and playing music with friends. You can find her walking with her dog, Aggie in City Park daily. You can reach Ana at ana@earlypartners.org.
Daniel (he/him) is an associate teacher in the Camellia classroom at Early Partners. He has 5 years of experience in ECE and several more working with children on the autism spectrum one on one. Daniel has a BA in literature from The Evergreen State College and a BS in Communication Disorders from Utah State University. In his spare time, he likes to shoot pool, bake, build or fix things, and walk around the bayou with his dog. You can reach Daniel at daniel@earlypartners.org.
Delphine (she/her) is a teacher in the Azalea classroom at Early Partners. Delphine has over 15 years of experience in the field of Early Childhood Education and over 5 years in Early Childhood Education Administration. She holds 2 Associates Degrees in Child Development, one in infants and toddlers and one in preschool. She studied Theatre Arts at the University of South Carolina, where she received a BA. Delphine is a certified CLASS observer and once served as a LA Pathways Trainer. She believes that every child and every family deserves access to high quality early childhood education, no matter their background, or socioeconomic status and is always excited to share her passionate thoughts surrounding this understanding with whoever will listen. Delphine is an actress and can be seen locally in different plays and commercials. She stars in a YouTube web series entitled “Workdays With Ni’Jay". Delphine is a mom to a teenage son, who is the joy of her life and the very reason she ever stepped foot into the Early Childhood Education field. She enjoys listening to live music and sampling the many restaurants in and around the New Orleans area, especially any type of seafood Po-Boy. You can reach Delphine at del@earlypartners.org.
Dreka (She/Her) is a Whole School Support Teacher and After Care Lead at Early Partners. Dreka has 3 years of experience in Early Childhood Education. Dreka has a Bachelors degree in social work from Jackson State University. Her previous work history includes working as a Mental health therapist in addition to providing ABA therapy for children with autism.Dreka is most passionate about the development of young children and taking every moment as a chance to grow. Dreka enjoys long walks in the park and watching the sunset. You can reach Dreka at dreka@earlypartner.org.
Emma (she/her) is the Instructional Support Teacher at Early Partners. Emma has a a B.A. in American Studies from the University of Michigan and over a decade of teaching experience in Preschool-Kindergarten in New Orleans. Emma boasted the highest CLASS scores in the City while teaching at Bricolage Academy and was a founding EP Teacher. Emma believes access to high quality early childhood education is one of the most important steps in creating truly equitable communities. She is excited to support teachers to develop a program rooted in anti-racist pedagogy, creativity and learning through play. She is also a photographer and a ceramicist who loves to spend time walking and biking in City Park, and catching up with a second line. You can reach Emma at emma@earlypartners.org.
Erin (she/her) is a teacher in the Jasmine classroom at Early Partners. Erin has 13 years of experience in early childhood education. She has a Child Development Associate’s Degree and plans to work towards a Bachelor's degree in Child Development this year. Erin was the Curriculum Director of Abeona House Child Discovery Center for two years before she began her role at Early Partners. Being a neurodivergent learner herself, Erin is passionate about providing learning experiences that reach all children in all of their developmental phases and needs. Erin has two children who attend Early Partners and she and her husband are regular parent volunteers at school. Erin enjoys family time more than anything and wishes she had more time to play music! Erin loves the social warmth and humor of New Orleans and her ideal adventure involves eating, drinking, singing, laughing, dancing and creating fun for her kids in the backyard. You can reach Erin at erin@earlypartners.org.
Flora (she/they) is the Director of Student Success at Early Partners. Flora has over 8 years of experience in education. She has a degree from McGill University and a Masters of Science in Education from John Hopkins University. Flora works across Early Partners to support students, teachers, and families through intervention and resource shares to ensure all students and families have access to high quality early childhood education. Flora is also a facilitator and an artist! You can reach Flora at flora@earlypartners.org.
Ginger (she/her) is a teacher at Early Partners. Ginger has two years of experience in early childhood education. She has a B.S. in music therapy from Georgia College & State University. Ginger believes that an intentional, playful, and child led early childhood education is foundational to a child’s growth and development. She brings her passion for music, art, and movement into the classroom and encourages self expression and exploration. She enjoys walking around the bayou or catching the sunset at the lakefront. You can reach Ginger at ginger@earlypartners.org.
Vikara (Kari) (she/her) is part of the Whole School Support Team at Early Partners. Kari has over three years of experience working with New Orleans youth through the Youth Empowerment Project, Groundwork New Orleans, and Anna’s Place. She is currently pursuing a B.A. in Political Science at the University of New Orleans. Kari is passionate about supporting our educators, children, and families in order to ensure an optimal educational experience for all. During her spare time, she enjoys attending arts festivals, spending time with her family, and exploring the nature that New Orleans and Louisiana have to offer. You can reach Kari at vikara@earlypartners.org.
Kris (she/her) is a teacher in the Hibiscus Classroom at Early Partners. Kris was born and raised in New Orleans, Louisiana and has over a decade of experience in early care and education. She has an A.D. in Applied Science in Care and Development of Young Children and is currently pursuing her B.A. She is passionate about creating operational systems that support teachers to encourage children’s curiosity and explore new and exciting materials. Kristen is a working mom with two kids: an 8th grader and a newborn. She and her daughter enjoy going to the park, riding bikes, feeding ducks, puzzles, and grabbing a snowball from Plum Street. You can reach Kris at kristen@earlypartners.org.
Lauren (she/her) is the head and founder of the Forest School Program at Early Partners. Lauren has over fifteen years of experience working with Early Childhood learners and five years of experience in an educational leadership role. She obtained her BA from University of Puget Sound, Her M.A. Ed from Goddard College and is pursuing a doctorate in Early Childhood Educational Research and Leadership from LSU. Lauren is a New Orleans and native and passionate about sharing the many benefits of outdoor education with community members from the city that raised her. When she is not working, Lauren likes canoeing, seeing live music, and spending time with loved ones. Lauren’s favorite holiday in New Orleans is Mardi Gras. She lives close to many parades and likes to step out on her doorstep with a coffee, watch the parade, and catch some throws. You can reach Lauren at lauren@earlypartners.org.
Leshan Jackson (she /her) is an associate teacher in the Wildflower class at early partners. Leshan has 7 years of experience, beginning in her family-owned daycare/summer camp and continuing through her very own childcare service. She is an avid baker and enjoys making delectable cheesecakes. The rest of her free time is spent cuddling her fur babies (3 cats and a rabbit ) Jett, Maddex, Stormy, and Bun Bun. Leshan can be reached at leshan@earlypartners.org.
Qiana "Que" (she/her) is an associate teacher in the Azalea classroom at Early Partners. Mrs. Que is a wife and mother of 7. Mrs. Que has 3 years of experience in Early Childhood Education. Mrs. Que is a dedicated educator with an unwavering passion for nurturing positivity, actively engaging with young learners, and celebrating the remarkable progress of our little ones. Her commitment to creating a vibrant and enriching early childhood environment is truly inspiring. Que enjoys spending time with her family and cooking. You can reach Qiana at que@earlypartners.org.
Shada (she/her) is a two-year old classroom teacher in the Magnolia classroom. Shada is a mom of two and an Early Partners parent. Shada has a Child Development Associates degree and has over 6 yrs of combined experience in ABA (applied behavior analysis) therapy and early childhood education. In Shada's first year at Early Partners, her class boasted some of the highest Toddler CLASS scores in the city. Shada enjoys spending time with her family and sampling foods at local restaurants in New Orleans. You can reach Shada at shada@earlypartners.org.
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Early Partners admits students of any race, color, national origin, and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It doesn’t discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.
Early Partners is a Section 501(c) (3) charitable organization, EIN 86-2943307. All donations are deemed tax-deductible absent any limitations on deductibility applicable to a particular taxpayer.
