Administration

Jill Harden
I’m Jill Harden, the Executive Director for Children Inc. Learning Center. I have been in the position since August of 2017. I have been working with children in some capacity since I graduated from Butler University
(Go Dawgs!) in 1992.
I have always had a passion for education as I think it levels the playing field for all of us regardless of our backgrounds. I want care and learning to be high quality where
ever I go because it is a privilege for me and all of us at Children Inc. Learning Center to be entrusted with the care and development of other people’s children.
One of the greatest compliments I received from a child was and I quote “Miss Jill you’re crazy.” My favorite compliment because I think learning should be fun and it doesn’t hurt to get a little silly
and playful if the children are learning and enjoying it. I always try to put a little humor and levity into everything I do.
I was born and raised in Shelbyville and have lived in Greenwood since
2003. I have commuted to Columbus for work since 1998. Although I was not blessed with my own children I helped raise my younger brother, my nieces and nephew and a few other now adults who were important
in my life. I love my partner, Brad, and my 3 dogs --- Rosie, Petey and Tater.

Cortney Caplinger
My name is Cortney Caplinger and I am the Deputy Director at Children Inc., where I've been for almost a year. I have been in childcare for over 25 years.
I work in childcare for the opportunity to partner with families in supporting children's growth and development. We play a crucial role in setting up educational skills for lifelong learning in children. By creating safe and stimulating environments where children can explore, play, learn social skills and develop academically, us as caregivers can contribute to shaping young minds that are eager to learn and grow throughout their lives!
I graduated from Columbus East HS in 2002 and went to Ivy Tech. I currently have my CDA and am working on a CPR instruction course. My favorite things include my husband, my 3 kids, and diet coke and tacos.

Beth Lehman
I'm Beth Lehman, an Assistant Director with Children Inc Learning Center. I have my BS (Bachelor of Science) degree in Elementary Education from Indiana University.
I am no stranger to Children Inc Learning
Center, having spent over 30 yrs as part of this ever-important team. I started as a before and after school teacher then moved into the School Age Program Manager position before moving into my current Assistant
Director position adding infant, toddlers and preschool care to my resume.
I enjoy doing agency fairs and community events promoting the agency and being a positive asset to both children and parents in
our community.
I was born and raised in Columbus, IN., married my high school sweetheart and we have 2 awesome adult boys and a wonderful grandson. I love animals, the beach/ocean, and bonfires.

Layna Bergfield
My name is Layna Bergfield, and I am an Assistant Director at Children Inc, as well as in charge of social media and marketing. I have my CDA, and have worked in childcare since 2018, but have worked with children since I was in high school. I've always loved kids, especially because I grew up in a big family with seven siblings (I'm number 3!). Before I became an Assistant Director, I worked mostly with two year old's, and spent some time with pre-K as well.
I grew up and attended in high school in Lapel, Indiana. Now, I live in Columbus with my partner, Max, and our cat Willow. When I'm not at work, you can find me doing an art project or at the local thrift store.
I absolutely love what I do, and getting the sweetest little hugs is the best part of my day! I truly believe that Early Education is the foundation for social, emotional and academic growth.

Sara Gray
My name is Sara Gray, and I have worked in childcare since 2011. Over 5 of those years have been at Children Inc. I was a toddler teacher until 2023, when I moved to my current position of Compliance Director.
I love coming to work and being able to interact with all of the children daily. It is never dull! Thank you to all of the parents who trust us with your kids everyday!

Connie Starr
Hello my name is Connie Starr. I’m the Administrative Assistant for Children Inc. Learning Center. I have been with them for over ten years. I worked with the school age kids for five years before moving to the office.
Sometimes I miss being in the classroom, but being in the office I now get to see so many of the kids. I love being able to watch them grow and learn. It is so much fun. I also love the hugs and high fives
the kids give me.
I have three grown children and six wonderful grandkids. They
keep me very busy because I am always on the run to their baseball, basketball, and soccer games. See why they keep me going?? But, I love being a part of their lives. I wouldn’t want it any other way.

Megan Tatlock-Allison
My name is Megan and I have been with Children Inc. since 2017, where currently I am the Behavior and Development Support Specialist and Program Coordinator.
I have a Bachelors in Psychology from IUPUC and 16 years of professional experience in Behavioral and Therapeutic Programming, Applied Behavior Analysis Therapy and Special Education. My goal is to
support Children Inc Learning Center’s commitment to providing an inclusive
early learning experience for children and families in our community.
A fun fact about me is that I am fluent in American Sign Language.

Melissa Day
My name is Melissa, and my journey at Children Inc. began in December of 2021. It has been amazing working as a teacher and assisting families with the voucher program.
I began working in Early Childhood Education over 34 years ago on a military base in Germany. I changed my college major from history to Early Childhood Education, and earned my associates in ECE. I continue attending conferences, classes and trainings to improve myself and provide a higher level of experiences for the children I teach. I share a hands on STEAM learning style with the children.
I am a proud veteran of the US arm and teacher of young children!
Food Service

Carla Lowe
My name is Carla Lowe and I am currently the kitchen supervisor. After receiving a Bachelors degree in Early Childhood Education, from Ball State University, I started at Children, Inc. Learning Center in August of 1984.
I
began as an assistant in the 3 year old room and the next year became the lead teacher. I remained in the 3 year old room for 13 years. In 1997, I began working in the kitchen and have been in my position for over 25 years. I have worked with all age groups, from 1 year old to school age children.
I enjoy my position in the kitchen , knowing that I am helping the children with their nutrition.
My favorite thing is seeing many “children” who I had as 3 year old, return with their own children and to see how they have succeeded in life.

Deb Murphy
I'm Deb, and I started in the kitchen at Children Inc this year, but I've worked in childcare for over 5 years. I was born in Kentucky and lived in North Carolina, Oklahoma, and Tennessee, but I grew up in Franklin, IN.
I love kids and enjoy watching the kids grow, but I knew I didn't want to teach because I can get attached very quickly. I'm a Mom and a Mimi, and I enjoy reading, quilting, being outdoors and traveling.
Infants

Debbie Santos
Hello, my name is Debbie Santos. I started working for Children Inc. over 25 years ago in the one year old classroom and since then have moved to the infants room.
Prior to working at Children Inc. Learning Center I lived and
worked in Guatemala for 20 years where I met my husband and four beautiful children of my own. I also have two beautiful granddaughters that I adore! While living in Guatemala I learned to speak fluent Spanish, which
has proven to be very helpful and fun in my job.
I currently have my CDA (Child Development Associate Credential) and continue to educate myself to be the best provider I can be. I love working with
children and I am grateful to be part of the team!

Haven Eudy
I'm Haven, and I am an assistant teacher in the infant room. I'm from Columbus, and have a young daughter.
I've been at Children Inc for just under a year, but I have worked in childcare for almost 4. I love watching kids learn while in class!

Rocky Shafer
My name is Rocky Shafer. I have my CDA and over 15 years experience in childcare. I have been working with infants for the last 3 years; it is extremely rewarding.
I firmly believe in the importance of early childhood development and I want to continue to be an advocate for the children and their education and learning.

Lori Witek
My name is Lori, and I work in one of the infant rooms. I have been with Children Inc since 2022, and have worked with children for over 3 decades. I am certified in Early Childhood Development. I love caring for children, and being a positive influence with my experience in caring for babies up to 12 year old's is extremely rewarding.
I am married with 2 grown daughters and 2 dogs, a shih-poo and a pug. I love gardening, garage sale, flea markets, and watching the WNBA.
Toddlers

Jessica Holland
I'm Jessica and I am a teacher in a one year old classroom. I have worked at Children Inc for over a year and a half. I was born and raised in Wisconsin.
I have my CDA in Early Childhood, training in conscious discipline, and have worked with young children for over 20 years. My love for teaching children brought me to this profession.
My hobbies include running and painting old furniture.

Stephanie Wright
My name is Stephanie. I started at Children Inc in 2024 and I am an assistant teacher in a one year old classroom.
I love working with kids and watching them grow! In my free time, I enjoy rescuing animals, and art/DIY!

Angela Hunt
My name is Angie, but my class calls me Ms. GiGi. I'm from Dillboro, IN, and I have 2 grown daughters. I am fun-loving, and easy to get along with!
I am the lead teacher of a one's classroom. I have worked in childcare for over 10 years, and I am currently working on getting my CDA. I love being with and teaching children.

Austan Cheever
Hi, I'm Austan! I'm from Columbus, I have a son named Theo.
I currently work in a ones classroom and absolutely love it! This is my first childcare job. It was my son who helped me realize that I want to work with children!

Phoebe Shafer
My name is Phoebe and I am the lead teacher in the combined 1's and 2's toddler classroom. I have lived in Columbus for most of my life. I'm a full-time mom of one and also a part-time college student going to receive my degree in Childcare and Education. I have past college experience in psychology.
A fun fact about me is that I love to paint!

Josie Bryant
Hi, I'm Josie! I'm new to Children Inc, but have been working in childcare for almost a year. I'm from Columbus and graduated from high school here, and I am currently working towards my CDA credential. I love interacting with children and being a part of their learning journey!
I love to read and spend time with my family in my free time.

Teresa Hedricks
Hi, my name is Teresa and I am the two's lead teacher. I have been at Children Inc over a year now. I have been a nanny, in daycare, and worked in schools for over 30 years.
I'm from Columbus but have lived in Hope for 20 years. In my free time, I enjoy going to concerts.

Ashley Clark
I'm Ashley, I'm from Indiana. I'm 28 with 3 young boys.
I am a teacher in a two's classroom. I've been a teacher for over two years, which I love doing. I love feeling like I'm making a positive difference in their lives.

Cheyenne Jessie
My name is Cheyenne, and I work with 2 year olds. I started working in childcare this year and I absolutely love it! I was born in Marion County, and I graduated from Whiteland Community High School in 2012. I lived in Greenwood, IN for 7 years before I moved to Columbus.
I work in childcare because I have always wanted to either help or take care of children. I almost did online courses to become a pediatric nurse but at the time daycare was expensive and I couldn't afford it.
Some fun facts about me include my favorite color is green, I love animal print, coloring and puzzles. I also love to be outside unless its really hot.
Preschool/PreK

Brenda Yonts
My name is Brenda, and I have worked in childcare since 2016. I have my Masters degree in Early Childhood Education. I am the current lead teacher in the preschool classroom.
I have been married since August of 2023. I have 2 grown daughters and 8 grandkids, 2 girls and 6 boys.
I love reading, theme parks and roller coasters, and flea markets.

Kristy Wright
My name is Kristy and I work in the Inclusive Classroom. I have been at Children Inc for almost a year. I worked in childcare before I had my own kids, then I took time to be home with them and homeschool them. They are now older.
I was born and raised in Columbus. In my free time I foster dogs and cats and help them find homes.

Ariana Cahill
I'm Ariana, and I am one of the teachers in the Inclusive Classroom! I started at Children Inc in 2024. I have experience babysitting, but I want to work in childcare because I want to help where and when I can.
I'm from North Carolina, but I've lived in Indiana for over 6 years. I have a cyber security degree, and I'm currently working on a degree in Psychology. I am a proud cat mom to three fur babies!

Susana Cardozo de DoFaial
My name is Susana and I am a lead pre-K teacher. I've been at Children Inc since September of 2023. I'm from Venezuela, but I have lived all over. I moved to the United States in 2021, where I lived in Texas before moving to Indiana in 2022.
It has always been my dream to work with kids!

Tiva Dodson
My name is Tiva, and I started at Children Inc this year, but I have worked in childcare for over 2 1/2 years. I went to public school all the way to 8th grade, then I did school online until 10th grade. I finished high school at Edinburgh Christian School and graduated from there May 2023. I am from Indiana born and raised.
I love to work in childcare because I love working with kids and watching their minds click with what you taught them.
A fun fact about me that I don't like mashed potatoes.

Laura Parker
My name is Laura Parker. I have been working at Children Inc. since 2004. Throughout my time at Children Inc. I have worked in almost every age group. I am currently one of the pre-K teachers, getting the kids ready to attend Kindergarten. I graduated high school in 2004 from Columbus East High School. In 2008 I Graduated from IUPUC with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education.
For as a long as I can remember I have wanted to be a teacher. Their success is my success.
Fun facts about me: My eyes change colors depending on my emotions and I am an avid plant enthusiast.

Brittany Baker
My name is Brittany and I was born and raised in Columbus. I graduated from Columbus East in 2011. I am married with 3 kids.
I've worked in childcare since 2017, and at Children Inc since 2023. I have worked with all age groups, from infants to school-age, and currently work in the pre-K room.
I work in childcare because I love to work with children, help them grow and learn, and be ready for what's to come in life. Working with children has been a passion of mine for a long time.

JJ Greathouse
I'm JJ, and I am a student at Columbus North getting my CDA through the C4 program. I started at Children Inc this year as an assistant teacher in a pre-K room. This is my first job in childcare.
I work in childcare because I like to see children grow. A fun fact about me is that I attended Children Inc as a child!
School Age

Elaina Boston
Hello! My name is Elaina Boston. I have worked in childcare for more than 6 years delivering high quality care to diverse age groups ranging from infants to high school students. I have received 2 associate degrees, on in child development, and currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in early childhood administration.
I enjoy working with the school-age children and look forward to seeing what this school year brings!

Donna Dawson
My name is Donna Dawson and I work with the Kindergarten class of School Age children. I have 2 daughters and 4 grandchildren. I love baking and crafting.
An interesting
fact about me is that I was a flight attendant for 5 years and got to travel the world. When my children were growing up I ran an in home child care. I usually had 6 children ranging from infants to 5 years old.
I did that for about 8 years. I love children and appreciate you letting me take care of yours!

Monima Thapa
My name is Monima Thapa. This is my first year at Children Inc, and I currently work with School Age. I completed my degree in Business Administration.
I love my job here at Children Inc because it is incredibly rewarding, and I have the opportunity to positively impact the lives of young children. Witnessing their growth, development, and milestones first hand fosters a sense of fulfillment and purpose.

Rillys Mason
My name is Rillys and I work with pre-K and School Age. I have worked with kids since 1999, where I worked with 7th through 12th grade at a private school in the Virgin Islands, where my family and I are from. I moved to Indiana in August of 2011, and started working at Children Inc at the end of 2012.
I love working with kids of all ages and backgrounds. We learn from them just as much as they learn from us!
Floats

Sarah Niekamp
My name is Sarah, and I've been at Children Inc. as a float since 2023. I have lived in Columbus for the last 10 years.
I went to college for Early Childhood Education. I work in childcare because I enjoy making a difference in children's lives! I also love animals; I have 3 cats and 1 dog.

Alyssa Underwood
Hey, my name is Alyssa. I am part of the floating staff here at Children Inc. I've only been here a short time, but I have been in childcare for over 2 years. I have always had a heart for children and look forward to having my own someday.
One of my favorite activities is fishing and I plan to fish often with my bestie this summer!

Naomi Caplinger
My name is Naomi, I'm 17 years old and I live in Columbus, IN. I'm currently in my senior year at Columbus North High School. I've been accepted to Olivet Naz. University as a junior, and will be going for my degree in Nursing with a major in Pediatrics.
I've worked in childcare since 2022, and I chose to work in childcare for my future career. This job will help to show me how to interact with kids . I also love helping and working with kids. It always brings me joy watching them learn and play.

Chelsea Chasteen
I'm Chelsea and I started at Children Inc recently as a floater. I've been working in childcare on and off for over a year. I was born and raised in Edinburgh, IN, and finished high school at Edinburgh Community School. I have two boys and enjoy camping and fishing, as well as reading murder mysteries and romance novels.
I work in childcare because I love children and love they way their brains work. Children are the future of our society and I'd love to be a part of shaping their minds.