Director

Alexis has been in the early childhood education field for six years. After earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, she led a toddler classroom. She later worked as a Family Engagement Specialist for Head Start. Prior to entering the early childhood education field, Alexis worked as a summer camp counselor and cheerleading coach, experiences that helped spark her passion for working with children. Alexis is dedicated to helping every child and family who walk through the doors grow and thrive. Her goal is to create a happy, healthy, and supportive environment for all.

Outside of work, Alexis lives with her boyfriend, their two dogs, and has a little one on the way! She loves home projects, spending time with family, and relaxing with a good movie or TV series.

Administrative Assistant

Erica wears a lot of hats, both within First Steps and beyond. She’s with us at the school part-time handling enrollment and student records, monthly newsletters, social media, and partners with Alexis on accounts receivable and general communication with our wonderful families. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Human Services and is a Licensed Massage Therapist, primarily focused on medical/therapeutic massage. Erica lives with her husband, their two kids (one past First Steps kid and one future!), 2 dogs, cat, and chickens.

Preschool Teacher

Heather has worked in early childhood for over 20 years. She is committed to providing developmentally appropriate experiences in a play based setting. Working with preschool aged children continues to inspire and delight her. Outside of the classroom, Heather enjoys running, reading, family time, fresh air, cooking/baking, her niece and nephew's giggles and coffee! Heather and her husband of 30 years Paul have 2 children in their 20’s who are out doing big things in the world. They also have a dog, 2 cows, and chickens.

Pre-Kindergarten Teacher

Pre-Kindergarten Teacher

Akanksha holds a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood and Childhood Education and a master’s degree in Special Education. She has spent the past eight summers working with children at a summer camp, which sparked her passion for teaching. Akanksha loves creating a warm, supportive environment where her students can learn, grow, and have fun. Outside of school, she enjoys camping and getting lost in a good book.

Pre-K Teaching Assistant

Brandi has been lucky to experience the joy, humor, and heartwarming moments that come with working with children for over 30 years. Their unfiltered honesty, curiosity, and unique perspectives make every day an adventure, reminding her why she loves what she does. Over the years, Brandi has learned that patience and flexibility make all the difference. Every child is unique, and she is a strong believer in supporting them at their own pace. Outside of work, Brandi has two wonderful daughters, Daysha and Skylyr, and a baby granddaughter Delilah!

Pre-K Teaching Assistant

Helen brings a strong background in childcare and education to our team. She has spent the past four years working in childcare and also has experience as both a babysitter and a swim instructor for children ages 2 to 8. Helen holds a bachelor’s degree in Social Work and is currently pursuing her master’s degree in Early Childhood Education. In her teaching, Helen draws from Resiliency Theory to help children build confidence and emotional strength, and she incorporates Play-Based Learning to make learning fun and meaningful. Her focus is on creating a classroom where every child feels safe, loved, and comfortable every second of every day. Helen strives to bring sunshine and joy into her classroom, helping each child discover the excitement of learning through play, laughter, and care.

Teaching Assistant

Teaching Assistant

Ava is a recent graduate of Wesleyan University and holds a bachelors degree in English, Creative Writing, and Asian American Studies. She began her educational work in the fields of environmental and grassroots organizing. She stewarded elementary school gardens, provided lesson plans on composting for teens, and worked as a social justice organizer in the Hudson Valley. She also has experience being a college writing mentor, a coach of 3 distinct sports, and the Editor-in-Chief for student-led publications. Ava believes in the power of language and education in building more compassionate and caring communities. Away from school, you can find Ava walking dogs, continuing her writing projects, and trying to find joy in all the places she goes.

Teaching Assistant

Teaching Assistant

Nikki is a proud mom of two daughters and two fur babies—a cat named Binx and a dog named Pip. She loves the color green, hippopotamuses, anything Halloween, and fried chicken cutlets. In her spare time, she enjoys gardening, cooking or baking, and spending time with her family. She’s so happy to be part of the First Steps family, and watch the kiddos grow!

Teaching Assistant

Ashley brings a solid background in childcare. Being the eldest of four, she knows a thing or two! She has been babysitting since she was sixteen years old, watching after and caring for children ages 1 to as old as 14. Ashley’s favorite colors are green, pink, and black! In her spare time she likes to take her mini dachshund for walks, window shopping, and rocking out at concerts. Watching the children flourish into the next generation of little humans is something Ashley takes to heart. She looks forward to her journey here with the First Steps family!