The Learning Ladder - Staff
The Learning Ladder is a place where children come to learn and grow. They can only do that because of the people who spend their days taking them to the next level in their development in the most nurturing, educationally responsible manner.
"Prior to The Learning Ladder, my daughter had been in an in-home daycare. We really noticed an improvement in her behavior due to the consistent and caring approach of the staff. The staff at The Learning Ladder ask their students to be responsible for themselves in simple, age-appropriate ways."
- Lisa and Allen
Our Staff
Center Director
Megan Youngstrom
I have been teaching for over 17 years in preschool and Montessori programs. As a child care provider, I feel it is essential to create an environment for children that is secure and stable, inviting and challenging and above all, a place that fosters friendships, cooperation, independence and a sense of self worth. I look forward to providing your child with an exciting preschool experience at The Learning Ladder.
"We cannot say enough about The Learning Ladder Montessori program. Megan, Director, and her staff of teachers and aides are fantastic!"
Preschool Teachers
Ms. Jessica -
Ms. Jessica joined our preschool staff in 2005. Ms. Jessica has a B. A. degree and licensure in elementary education from St. Mary’s University. Jessica has provided home therapy for children with autism at the Minnesota Autism Center as well as teaching in the Mound School District. Jessica’s energetic spirit and creative ideas are a positive in the preschool classroom.
Early Preschool Teachers
Ms. Amy -
I have been teaching in the early preschool room at The Learning Ladder since May of 2007. I have my B. A. degree and licensure in elementary education with a pre-primary specialty from Southwest Minnesota State University. My previous experience teaching was at Discovery Center preschool and daycare for three years and worked with infants, toddlers, and preschool aged children. It's exciting to be a part of a small teaching environment where the focus is on the children and their discoveries in the world of learning.
Ms. Olga -
I have been fortunate to have been teaching for 20 years. For fourteen years I cared for infants through kindergarten aged children. I have a B. a. in Language of Literature from Odessa University. I have a Montessori Certificate from St. Catherine College. I love working with younger children and helping them to develop confidence and independence. I believe in strong communication with parents and from personal experience, know that only teamwork can help children develop into successful adults.
I live in Plymouth and have a 15 year old daughter attending Wayzata high school (Ms. Megan was Marta's first teacher). Marta is a strong student and basketball player. I am delighted to be part of the staff at The Learning Ladder and love the opportunity to teach such wonderful children each day!
Substitute Teachers
Ms. Felicia -
Ms. Felicia is a reserve teacher in the Wayzata School District for children grades K-5 and substitutes at the Wayzata Community Church nursery school with preschoolers. Felicia enjoys teaching preschoolers because of their love of learning and their capacity to absorb information. Felicia believes in reading aloud to show word recognition and involving children in math activities.
Ms. Vangie -
Ms. Vangie is another of our great substitute teachers and a grandmother to one of The Learning Ladder graduates! Ms. Vangie has worked in many childcare settings over the years and brings a happy and healthy attitude to her work at our school.