
Children's Journey Preschool
Staff Biographies
Trisha Vigo - Director of Operations
I have been with Children’s Journey Preschool since January of 2012. I started here as an assistant in the infant room before I moved to a lead teacher position in our toddler class in late 2012. In the summer of 2012, I was also promoted to supervising teacher. I held both positions until June of 2014 when I was promoted to Assistant Director. I have worked and helped with all of the age groups at CJP from infant through VPK. In 2017, I was promoted to Preschool Director. I have known since I was a small child that I wanted to work with children. I truly believe that their education starts with us. I feel great knowing that what I do makes a difference and paves the way for their future development and education. I want all the children in my care to succeed in everything they do, to feel loved, safe, and excited about coming to school. In October of 2020, I began my new role as Director of Operations to oversee CJP and Redeemer.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my children, a son named Karter and daughter named Kaylani, and wonderful husband. I also love being in the water and the beach is my happy place. I love to do DIY projects and spend time with the rest of my family and friends.
I look forward to getting to know your child and family and want to thank you for allowing us to be a part of your child’s development.
Some of Trisha's Favorite things: Starbucks, Amazon, Reese's cups, and Sunflowers
Email: admin@redeemerwp.org
Phone: 4076788660
Mary Barrett - Preschool Director
I have been working at CJP since April of 2013, and I have taught in all of the classrooms from Infant - VPK. In 2017, I became the curriculum specialist at CJP until I was promoted to Assistant Director in the fall of 2018. I have always wanted a job where I felt I could help children and make a difference in their life. Working with children to me is such an important job, and I get to have fun at the same time. My favorite thing about teaching is that even I, as the adult, learn new things every day. I want to provide a warm and loving environment for children that helps them learn and grow. In October of 2020, I was promoted to Preschool Director.
Outside of work, I love trivia, arts and crafts, visiting Disney, and enjoying the occasional Starbucks. I love spending time with my husband and our 2 children.
I look forward to getting to know your children and family.
Some of Mary's Favorite things: Coffee, Target, Reese's cups, and Disney
Email: cjp@redeemerwp.org
Phone: 4076788660
Carleigh Parson - Assistant Director
Hello! My name is Carleigh (She/Her). I grew up right here in Winter Park, I became a member of Redeemer 16 years ago and have served as a youth representative on our council. I attended Children’s Journey Preschool as a child and this school holds such a special place in my heart! I’m thrilled to be a part of our team and see the growth of our campus.
I have my Child Development Associate credential and began working at CJP in 2018 with our VPK and school age classes and have moved through all of our classrooms since then! In 2021 I moved to Tallahassee FL to pursue getting my directors credential, but in 2022 I returned to Winter Park and quickly rejoined our school team as Assistant Director. I love creating safe spaces for children to spend their early years. I want to provide our children with all of the support and consistency they need to thrive in all areas of their development.
Outside of work I enjoy spending time with my family, going swimming, and mini golfing. I also love reading, painting, and hanging out with my 4 kitties!
I look forward to getting to know your family and thank you for allowing me to be a part of their school journey!
Some of Carleigh's Favorite things: Plants, Chickfila, target, and sweet tea!
Jesmarie Mercado- Assistant Director
Hello, my name is Jesmarie (but the kids call me Ms. Jazz), and I am the new Assistant Director here at CJP.
I was born in Puerto Rico, but lived most of my life in Buffalo, NY, before relocating here to Florida about 5 years ago. I received my National Child Development Associate from Erie Community College, and hold an FCCPC certificate as well. My journey in childcare began 15 years ago when I worked for a non-profit preschool as a substitute teacher. I worked there for 11 years eventually teaching 3 year old's and VPK. I believe we make a difference in the lives of children by giving them the tools to build a strong social emotional foundation and grow into well-rounded adults.
My family consists of my loving husband and our 3 adult children. I love seeing children learn, grow, and develop new skills and flourish. Working in childcare impacted my role as a Mother, and I feel I've learned background behind why children do and say the things that they do.
Outside of work, I enjoy working with clients as a licensed nail technician, shopping, and exploring what Florida has to offer with my family.
I am really excited to be a part of Children's Journey community. I am eager to get to know all of our children and families, and looking forward to building strong partnerships with our teachers and parents.
Some of Jesmarie's favorite things: Panera, Amazon, M&M's, ice cream, and Pepsi
Dianna Chicon - Infant 1 Assistant Teacher
Hello! My name is Dianna and I am from San Juan, Puerto Rico! I later moved to Boston and graduated from the Boston Art Academy. I found my passion with children through volunteering in elementary schools, supporting holiday toys drives from children, and from my 5 nieces and nephews. I love working with children because knowing I can provide encouragement and tools to help them grow is so special! I want all children in my care to know they are important, loved, and valued! I believe out roles allows us to prepare them for the next steps in their life and to set them up with the skills they need. Outside of work I enjoy spending time with my family and exploring new restaurants and stores! I also enjoy building my relationship with God and attending church. I look forward to becoming a caregiver in your child's life and meeting all of you!
Some of Dianna's favorite things: Culvers, M&M's, Panera, Peach tea
Wendy Thompson - Infant 2 Lead Teacher
Some of Wendy's Favorite things: Zaxby's, Taco Bell, Walmart, and Mocha Iced coffee
Kateleen Morales - Infant 2 Assistant Teacher
Hello, my name is Kateleen! I was born and raised here in Orlando! I entered in to childcare after caring for my young cousins! I loved being their to guide them as I watched them grow and learn. My goal is to show the children expect and let them know their is always someone there for them who loves them and wants them to succeed! I think creating a safe space for them allows them to develop to their fullest potential. Outside of work, I enjoy playing video games, listening to music, and watching TV. I look forward to caring for your child and watching them learn!
Some of Kateleen's favorite things: Chili's, Chickfila, and 3 Muskateers
Elizabeth Ettinger - Toddler 1 Lead Teacher
Hello, My name is Elizabeth (She/her) and I am from Grand Rapids, Michigan! I moved to Florida and graduated from Valencia college. I began working with children through babysitting when I was younger and then entered into Childcare! I began working primarily with Toddlers and moved up to a Toddler Lead Teacher. I joined the CJP team to begin working with Preschool 3's! I love working with children and hope to encourage independence and exploration. I want to empower them as they grow into their personalities and learn who they are! Outside of work, I spend time with family including my sons Logan and Oliver who attend CJP! I also like to visit theme parks and shop at target! I look forward to getting to know you children and working with you!
Some of Elizabeth's Favorite things: Chick-fil-a, Target, sour candy, doritos, iced latte
Ansleigh Vaughn - Toddler 1 Assistant Teacher
Some of Ans' favorite things: chick-fil-a, target, reese's cups, cold brew, and cookies
Jackie Morales- Toddler Support Staff
A few of Jackie's favorite things: Chick-fil-a, TJ Maxx, chocolate, and sweet tea
Madison Buchanan- Toddler 2 Lead Teacher
A few of Madison's Favorite things: panera, sour gummy worms, sushi, caramel iced coffee
Ayanah Ramos - Toddler 2
Hello, my name is Ayanah! I am from Philadelphia, but recently relocated to Florida! I love working with young children and found my passion through caring for a family member of mine with special needs. This encouraged me to continue working with young children and I began working in daycares and preschools! I love waking up and looking forward to my day with my class, knowing that I am helping them grow. I want to help shape each students childhood and make sure they have positive early years to look back on. I think connecting with the children emotionally and making secure bonds with them helps them to learn the most they can! Outside of work I enjoy spending time with family and my cats, shopping, and dance! I look forward to having great days that your children come home talking about!
Some of Ayanah's Favorite Things: Starbucks, skittles, hot cheetos
Joanna Mantilla - EPS1 Lead Teacher
Some of Joanna's Favorite things: Sushi, Dunkin Donuts, Amazon, and sunflowers
Luz Monge - EPS1 Lead Teacher
Hi! My name is Luz and I am from New York! I have my associated degree and have been working in the preschool setting for over 6 years. I love work in the classroom because of the bonds we can create with each child. I want to make a lasting difference in their life and set them on the path to love school and make friends with their peers. I think the most important part of our work is being supportive to all different styles of learning and helping our little ones grow in the way that works best for them. Outside of work I enjoy spending time with my family including my 2 boys and exploring Florida. I look forward to making many memories with your children!
Janette Seleman - EPS1 Assistant Teacher
Some of Janette's Favorite things: Golden Coral, Dunkin Donuts, JC Penny, and roses
Caroline Norman - EPS2 Lead Teacher
Some of Caroline's favorite things: Tropical Smoothie Cafe, Target, and skittles
Meagan West - EPS2 Assistant Teacher / Closing Supervisor
Outside of work and studying for school, I enjoy spending time with my friends and family.
I look forward to working with all of the students and making sure they enjoy coming to school. I hope that they are learning and constantly having fun. Thank you!
Some of Meagan's Favorite things: Chilis, Chick Fil A, Target, M&M's, and Dr. Pepper
Sofia Assent - Support Staff / EPS 2
Hello, my name is Sofia (she/her)! I was born and raised in Central Florida and recently graduated from UCF with my bachelors in science. I began working with children through Lake Howell's Little Hawks program, where i taught children aged 3-5. During that time I obtained my CDA and 45 hours through DCF. Since then I have been a tutor for children ages 3 - 18 and have gained experience working with varying levels of ability and creating lesson plans to fit their individual needs. I love working with children because every moment with them is a gift. I enjoy watching them explore the world around them and expand their view I hope to be a positive influence in their life as I help them navigate these early years. I want to teach them to love themselves and others so they may go forward with that attitude as they grow. Outside of work I enjoy cooking for friends and family, reading, and embordering. I also continue my studies through work at local research labs. I look forward to working with you and your wonderful children! Thank you for trusting me with your greatest gift!
Some of Sofia's favorite things: Chick-fil-a, Chipotle, Target, Doritos, Boba, Sour punch straws
Rosario Hoyle- Preschool Lead Teacher
Some of Rossie's favorite things: Red lobster, Ihop, Target, Chocolate, Potato chips
Cheyanne Viles - Preschool Assistant Teacher
Hello, my name is Cheyanne Viles! I was born and raised in Florida and I am currently working on a degree in Biotechnology. Outside of school I have been nanny for many years, getting to watch them meet so many special milestones made me want to continue my work in child care. I love that we are able to walk alongside them for these exciting developments. I know how intimidating it can feel to be away from home sometimes so it is my hope to provide comfort and support as they develop emotional security and regulation skills. I believe these early years are important to learn how to develop different relationships and communication skills. Outside of work I enjoy painting and reading, as well as spending time with my family. I look forward to guiding your children through these first years!
Some of Cheyanne's favorite things: Chick-fil-a, Target, green tea, Garden Salsa Sunchips
Amanda Nieves - VPK A Lead Teacher
I have worked with children since I was about 14 years old by babysitting for various families and my most recent employment was as an assistant teacher with three-year-olds at a childcare facility in CT. I joined the CJP team as a co-teacher in the Preschool 3's classroom in June of 2021. I love working with children because it makes me happy. They encourage me to be more creative and make day to day work more exciting. I hope that the children in my care know that they are important, valued, and loved. I want them to know and believe that someone is always there for them to help them become smart and strong individuals. The most important part of what we're doing in early childhood is providing a safe environment where children feel free to express themselves and make connections with others.
Outside of work, I enjoy reading, crocheting, makeup, and music. I also enjoy spending time with my parents, brother, sister in law, and niece as much as possible.
I look forward to getting to know everyone and their families and I hope you all enjoy getting to know me as well!
Some of Amanda's Favorite things: Chilis, Chick Fil A, Shein, socks, starbursts, and iced coffee
Noemi Otero - VPK A Assistant Teacher
Some of Noemi's favorite things: Chili's, Old Navy, Target, Red Velvet Cake, Coffee, Crunch, and Sunflowers
Heather Mathis - VPK B Lead Teacher
A few of Heather's favorite things: Outback, Starbucks, Target, Dark Chocolate