At Darlington Early Childhood Center, our teaching team is dedicated, passionate, and experienced in fostering the growth and development of young children. Each member of our staff is carefully selected not only for their educational qualifications but for their deep commitment to creating a nurturing, supportive, and inclusive environment. Our teachers combine creativity, patience, and expertise to inspire a love of learning and help each child discover their unique strengths. With ongoing professional development and a shared philosophy centered on play-based learning, our team works collaboratively to ensure every child feels valued, confident, and excited to explore the world around them.
Miss Kellie
Director
Miss Kellie is the Preschool Director at Darlington Early Childhood Center (DECC), where she brings a combination of educational leadership and organizational expertise. After several years as a beloved preschool teacher, she transitioned into the director role when the pandemic reshaped the school’s leadership needs. Before her career in education, Miss Kellie worked in medical billing, a role that refined her attention to detail and ability to manage complex systems. Her leadership ensures the preschool continues to offer a nurturing and high-quality environment for children to learn and grow.
4-5 Year Olds
Miss Diane
With over 50 years in early childhood education, including 15 years at DECC, Miss Diane is a cornerstone of the school’s educational philosophy. Holding a Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education, she continually adapts her teaching strategies to meet the developmental needs of children. As Curriculum Coordinator, Miss Diane leads the development of creative and engaging programs that inspire curiosity and a lifelong love of learning. Her wealth of experience and commitment to excellence have positively impacted generations of students and families.
Miss Courtney
Known for her festive spirit, Miss Courtney has nearly 10 years of experience as a preschool teacher at DECC. She plays a vital role in organizing and planning school events, bringing creativity and excitement to each occasion. Outside of teaching, Miss Courtney is committed to supporting her community, particularly veterans, and regularly participates in local charitable initiatives. Additionally, she runs a photobooth business on the side, capturing memories for families and events. Her energy, creativity, and dedication to both education and community service make her an invaluable member of the DECC team.
3-4 Year Olds
Miss Irene
Miss Irene has dedicated 28 years to nurturing young minds in early childhood education. With an Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education, she has worked with children from toddlers to age 5, providing a caring and enriching environment. Known for her creativity, Miss Irene adds a personal touch to the school with her beautifully designed themed decorations and event setups. Her warm, artistic approach makes her a favorite among students, parents, and staff alike.
Miss Lorna
Miss Lorna, a preschool teacher at DECC for five years, brings a unique background from her previous career in the factory industry. This experience has shaped her strong work ethic and ability to handle tasks with precision and care. Outside of the classroom, Miss Lorna enjoys cooking and drawing, often incorporating these passions into her lessons to make learning enjoyable and hands-on for her students. She works closely with her co-teacher to create festive classroom decorations and event signage that help build a positive school environment.
2.5-3 Year Olds
Miss Miranda
Miss Miranda has been a valued member of our preschool team for the past five years, where she creates a positive and supportive environment for young learners. With certifications in the Child Development Associate (CDA) Program and learnERS Program, she has developed a solid foundation in early childhood education. Currently pursuing her degree in Early Childhood Education, Miss Miranda is committed to ongoing professional growth to ensure she provides the best possible learning experiences for her students.
Miss Megan
A preschool teacher with six years of experience at DECC, Miss Megan is passionate about creating a supportive and engaging learning environment for young children. She holds an Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education and focuses on helping each child develop essential skills for future success. Miss Megan’s nurturing and patient approach fosters a love for learning while building strong relationships with both students and their families.
1.5-2.5 Year Olds
Miss Kaitlin
Miss Kaitlin is a compassionate preschool teacher with experience supporting children with diverse learning needs, including those on the autism spectrum. She has a passion for fostering an inclusive environment where all children, regardless of their abilities, can thrive and develop to their fullest potential. Currently pursuing a degree in Early Childhood and Special Education, Miss Kaitlin is also enrolled in the Child Development Associate (CDA) certification program to expand her knowledge in the field. Dedicated to creating a nurturing classroom, she strives to meet the unique needs of each child.
Miss Melice