Infant Nursery
Toddler Classrooms
Brenda Collison, Toddler Teacher, 2020
B.S. Biology, Colorado State University
M.A. Elementary Ed. Curriculum & Instruction, University of Colorado, Denver
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About Brenda:
Brenda comes to TLC with a wealth of experience in education and has worked with diverse learners from birth to adulthood in both traditional academic settings, as well as in environmental education roles at nonprofits such as The Butterfly Pavilion and the Colorado Wildlife Federation. Brenda is passionate about education and is particularly fond of toddlers, having worked with this particular age group for the last 10 years. When asked about her educational philosophy, Brenda states, “I love building secure emotional attachments with children and helping them develop language and literacy skills through child-led, play-based learning.”
Born and raised in Denver, Brenda and her family moved to Firestone in 2000, where she and her husband reside with their sweet dog, Dolly. They have two grown children, Emily and Braden and enjoy spending time in the garden when the weather is nice. Brenda also enjoys crafting, sewing, being with family, reading, and learning new things!
Meghan Hermsen, Toddler Teacher, 2018
B.A. Psychology, Western Washington University
ECT Qualified
EQIT Certified
TLC Parent
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About Meghan:
Meghan has always had a passion for working with young children and after volunteering with kids while completing her Bachelor’s degree, she began working as a nanny and preschool teacher. Since joining the TLC staff in 2018, Megan has enjoyed the many friendships she has made and credits the relationships forged with colleagues as one of the best parts of her job. “I love the collaborative attitude we have at TLC. From co-teachers to therapists it’s truly a team effort.”
Meghan moved to Boulder from New Jersey when she was seven years old and began babysitting at age 11. She and her husband have a daughter who attends TLC and they love spending time together with their 90 lb dog, Chance.
Shawna Marler, Toddler Teacher
About Shawna:
Preschool Classrooms
Mary Beth Boyer, Preschool Teacher, 1983
B.A. Early Childhood Development, University of Minnesota, Duluth
M.A. Special Education with additional endorsement in Early Childhood Special Education, University of Northern Colorado
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About Mary Beth:
Mary Beth Boyer came to TLC in September of 1983, and it has been her home ever since. Mary Beth loves working with TLC preschoolers and families. TLC has seen many changes through the years, but the focus has always been and continues to be on what each child can do. The staff works together to provide a positive, engaging and nurturing learning environment, in which to build on each child's strengths and meet their needs. Mary Beth loves the ongoing relationships and connections with our current and alumni children, families and also with the community. Mary Beth says, "How much I have learned and continue to learn everyday from each child is a gift!"
Mary Beth received her undergraduate degree in Early Childhood Development and Special Education from the University of Minnesota, Duluth. She completed my masters in Early Childhood Special Education at the University of Northern Colorado.
Mary Beth and her husband Robbie have a blended family of five children and six grandchildren. Two of Mary Beth's children are Tiny Tim alumni, as are two of her granddaughters. Outside of TLC, Mary Beth loves spending time with her family and friends. She keeps busy with her grandchildren, and also enjoys baking, taking walks, and watching movies and sports, especially baseball!
Layla Johnsen, Preschool Teacher
Brenda Lord, Preschool Teacher, 2017
B.S. Biology, minor in Education, Butler University
M.S. in Education, Regis University
Licensed Early Education Teacher
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About Brenda:
After growing up in the Midwest, Brenda moved to Colorado in 1996. Throughout her 25-year career she has taught in a variety of settings including preschools, middle schools, high schools, and an alternative high school.
Brenda is passionate about cross country skiing, photography, baking, glassblowing, and going on family river trips.
Lupe Morales, Preschool Teacher, 2005
TLC Grandparent
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About Lupe:
Lupe has been teaching at TLC since the fall of 2005. She has an associate's degree in Early Childhood Education. Lupe loves working with children and families at TLC, and loves helping to create a positive and nurturing environment to meet children's individual needs.
When not working, Lupe loves spending her time with her family and friends. She also enjoys gardening and cooking.
