Our Teachers and Staff
All staff members are loving individuals who, by example, help the children build healthy, positive attitudes toward God, self and others. Many have been at the WEE Center for years, thus developing friendships with students and families.
Each classroom is staffed with a lead and an assistant teacher. The children-to-teacher ratios meet or exceed those required by the Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS). Each lead teacher is an active Christian with a college degree or a minimum of 5 years in early childhood education. All staff members receive extensive annual training in child development and education and are routinely trained and certified in First Aid and Pediatric CPR. At least one staff member who is trained in Medication Administration is on site at all times.
Administration
Director
Mrs. Lipton I first joined the WEE Center Staff in 1999 when my own children were attending and became the Director in 2007. I have worked in both private and public education since 1989. I believe each child is a uniquely made gift from God and sees the world in their own way. As adults, there is always an opportunity to learn new perspectives from them. Email Ann weedirector@parkwood.org.
Teachers
15 Month Old Lamb Class
Ms. Ceci I started at the WEE Center as a parent in 1999 when my two younger sons attended and began teaching as a parent sub before joining the team. I have taken breaks from teaching throughout the years, but it is always a blessing to be able to return and be a part of this inspiring group of teachers. I love teaching the children about Jesus and how much He loves them. It’s amazing to see how excited they are to learn new things and watch them grow throughout the year.
Ms. Maria Since 2020, I have worked at the WEE Center with most age groups. I love seeing how happy they are when they see and remember me, being goofy with them, making up stories on the playground (Ahoy matey on the ship!), and reading stories changing my voice to match different characters. I am very happy to be here in this wonderful environment.
2 Year Old Bear Class
Ms. Elizabeth I started with the WEE Center when I was 5 years old! I went through the program and now teach in the preschool and am the Church’s Children Ministry coordinator. For 6 years, I have been the lead teacher with the Bear class. I love watching these young kids develop from being unsure and learning to walk to becoming independent and confident. I’m blessed to help teach them and share the amazing things God has for them!
Ms. Sharon I began working at the WEE Center in 1997, and over the years have been an assistant and lead teacher in several classes. I am now the assistant alongside my daughter. To me there is no greater joy than seeing a child beam when they have accomplished a new skill; having them show me what they have created, and taking my hand and saying, “come play with me.”
2 ½ - 3 ½ Year Old Frog Class
Ms. Kathy I joined the WEE Center in 2019 and am constantly amazed by each child's talents and insights. I love sitting with them on the floor building, running on the playground, celebrating their achievements (I often hear "Look Ms. Kathy!"), "eating" their home living creations ("Mmmm, delicious!") I am blessed to help them discover new skills, experiences and God's wonders.
Ms. Ashley We have so much fun with the various activities in our class, and I love working on arts and crafts with the kiddos. Watching their personalities and creativity shine is such fun. They love to look at their artwork on display in our classroom, on the windows and in the hallway. I am so blessed to join your children on their preschool journey!
3 Years Old Dalmation Class
Mrs. Metts I have been teaching at the WEE Center for 22 years and find great joy guiding my students to learn and grow in God’s love. My classroom is filled with laughter, curiosity, and faith, making each day a blessing. Teaching is not just my profession, it is my ministry, and the joy of my students continues to inspire me year after year.
Mrs. Luna I have been part of the WEE Center since 2012 and working with children is one of the most joyful and fulfilling experiences, especially during center time when I play with them. Their witty remarks and bright observations light up my day. These moments allow me to connect with them, engage meaningfully, and learn from their unique perspectives. Every day is a new opportunity for me to give my best and experience God’s love through these wonderful children
3 Year Old Dolphin Class
Mrs. Townsend I joined the WEE Center family as a teacher in 2017 because in over 20 years of early childhood education, this is the most supportive and caring environment I have ever experienced. I love teaching 3-year-olds because there is so much social growth during this time. The learning process is pure joy to see as the children, their parents, and I grow together over the school year. I enjoy art (especially the messy projects), being outside, and sharing adventures with my students.
Mrs. Tan I was born in Singapore and immigrated to the USA in 2012 with my family. My children attended Christian preschools and that’s when I started working as an assistant teacher. I joined WEE Center in 2024 and fell in love with WEE’s God-loving environment, and am honored to be working alongside the amazing teachers. I enjoy one-on-one interaction with the children and playing with them. I find joy in the simple moments, like a child’s smile, a shared laugh, or a breakthrough in understanding, recognizing that even small moments can be powerful in a child's development.
4 Year Old Zebra Class
Mrs. Chapman
Mrs. Buchanan
4 Year Old Giraffe Class
Mrs. Kelly I love teaching the 4/5-year-olds, helping them get ready for kindergarten, and being a part of how much they grow within the year that I have them.
Mrs. Kauffman I was born and raised in the Netherlands, immigrated to the US in 2004, and started at the WEE Center in 2016. I am passionate about art and love when kids surprise me with their creative minds, show me their perspectives and keep me active with their play and interactions. I cherish the relationship we build throughout the year! I love being outside with them exploring, and often say “If you cannot see the sunshine, be the sunshine!”.
Music Class: All Classes
Ms. Bev
Spanish Class: All Classes
Ms. A I joined the team in 2022 when my oldest daughter began attending the program. I am honored to be part of the WEE Center family and to give young children a taste of the beautiful Spanish language. One of my favorite things is finding out that a former student wants to continue learning Spanish because of their experience at the WEE Center. I also love seeing kids get excited about what they know en Español!