Roswell & Alpharetta Faculty Team

Co-Director (Administrative)

Alissa began working in Early Education 19 years ago, when she found a true passion for teaching young children and sharing her own joys in the classroom. Alissa's favorite thing about working with children is witnessing them take the humble beginnings of ideas, questions, and exploration, and watching them achieve understanding and accomplishment from their own successes. Alissa appreciates the remarkable effects that patience, kindness and mindfulness create in our classrooms and always strives to apply these not just at school, but in her personal life too.

Over her career, Alissa has had the privilege of working in a variety of capacities; she taught in some very small centers, served in state-run programs, and in a Headstart within the Indiginous community. She loved creating Pre-K programs at larger private schools, and, before moving to Georgia, Alissa was a Co-Director of a center of 130 children in Washington state. Alissa has always operated as an emergent learning teacher with a serious lean into the arts, so she is very excited to be a part of a Reggio Inspired school where this is a way of life!

Alissa and her husband, Kevin, moved to Georgia from Seattle in 2021. Their grown children live at opposite ends of the country, and they are excited to live closer to her husband's family in Florida, as well as working towards their personal goals. Every once in a while her Canadian slips out with an 'eh'. She comes by it honestly as she was born and raised in Vancouver, BC. This isn't her first stay in the south, though; Alissa lived in Florida for a couple of years and loves some of the great things here - the storms are her favorite!

In her personal time, Alissa is an avid reader and enjoys researching a variety of topics. She loves to garden and grow, and she and Kevin are known to wander off into the woods quite regularly.

From Alissa: Watching children learn and accomplish their goals is a truly amazing process to be a part of, and I am grateful to be in a position which allows me to connect with families in such a meaningful way. I am so happy to be a part of the SOWJS team, and this school, where I have the opportunity to share in some beautiful values! I look forward to getting to know you and your family and working together through happy days and fun learning!

Pedagogista & Teacher, Roswell

This is Danielle's seventh year teaching at SOWJS, and she also serves as our Pedagogista (the fancy Italian word for Curriculum Coordinator, our Faculty Coach). 

Dannielle was born and raised on the beachy shores of Sarasota, Florida. She holds an Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education from Rasmussen College and she currently attends Brenau University, where she is pursuing a degree in Elementary Education.

Danielle has been working in the field of Early Childhood Education since she moved to Georgia thirteen years ago. Danielle has experience working with all age-groups, infants through PreK, and has focused most of her professional career centered around Infants, Toddlers and Two's. Danielle is a Mentor Educator and has received specialized training from the national ElevatED program!

Danielle's free time is devoted to her three lovely children. They are always trying to find their next adventure. Danielle and her family enjoy Glamping and just exploring the outdoors!

Atelierista

Annika is an Artist, Teacher and Life Coach trained in NYC. Originally from Hawaii, and educated in the Waldorf Schools, she has a deep interest and reverence for Cultures, and Nature. 

Annika holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the Parsons School of Design and has continued her own art education through other various art programs. Annika has been a homeschool educator to her own children, has taught art to students at a Friends' School,  and held an internship with Art Start, in which she taught art to children in a homeless shelter.

Annika has designed a thoughtful and beautiful studio space (atelier) for the children at Seeds of Wonder Journey School, incorporating everything from up-cycled goods to natural materials, from fabric to beads, from clay to wire and so much more! Each class meets with Annika for a weekly art class, as well as open-studio time in the afternoons for our older children!

Having joined the SOWJS team in 2020 when she arrived in GA, Annika arrived dragging along a wild bunch: Three kids and a husband (Drummer/Author)!  

Front Desk/Security & Facilities Support

Sam holds a Master's Degree in teaching, and has previously taught Middle and High School for the City of Chicago Public Schools, Dekalb County and at Atlanta Jewish Academy. Sam also has an extensive background leading teams in customer service. 

Sam is an experienced nature enthusiast who strives to create life-changing experiences for each and every participant through his company, Summit Academy Adventures, in which he leads hands-on activities and customized programs, to teach children, teens and adults how to become effective and inspirational leaders in both their personal and professional lives. Sam also has a love of music and even played for SOWJS's first Sukkot playground potluck!

Sam lives ITP with his family, and his dog, all eager hiking companions! He enjoys listening to live music and playing his mandolin and guitar when he is able. 

Teacher, Roswell

Alexis joined the SOWJS faculty in 2021. With a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education focused on children from birth through kindergarten, Before joining SOWJS, Alexis taught at another progressive Jewish preschool and was a counselor at a Jewish summer camp. Alexis brings both experience and a genuine love for the early years to her classroom. Alexis guides our Pre-K children with warmth, patience, and care. Alexis helps create a classroom where children feel known, valued, and excited to come to school each day. 

At the heart of Alexis’s teaching is her belief that young children are capable, confident individuals with important voices of their own. She loves helping children develop independence, learn to advocate for themselves, and discover the joy that comes from trying something new on their own. Alexis creates a classroom where children feel safe to be themselves, take risks, make mistakes, and learn. She builds strong relationships with each child and fosters a sense of belonging that allows them to feel secure as they explore, grow, and become more confident in who they are.
 

From Alexis: I love watching children discover just how capable they are and realize that their voice matters. Seeing their confidence grow as they try new things, share their ideas, and learn to trust themselves is one of the most rewarding parts of teaching.
 

Teacher, Roswell

Creisha is excited to be part of the school community! She is originally from Buras, Louisiana, and has more than 10 years of professional teaching experience from early childhood through elementary school. Creisha served as a Lead Teacher and Pre-K teacher, as well as a Third Grade Teacher in Richmond County, Georgia from 2018–2020. Creisha holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with a concentration in Science, and truly enjoys creating engaging learning experiences that help students grow academically, socially, and personally.

Outside of the classroom, Creisha is a gold medal-winning powerlifter, a big soccer fan, and she enjoys staying active through outdoor activities. She also loves spending free time with her family and kids and making memories together.

From Creisha: I’m looking forward to getting to know my students and their families and creating a positive, fun, and supportive learning environment this school year! 

Teacher, Roswell

 Nadine is in her sixth year teaching at SOWJS. She was born in Montreal, Canada.  Her family moved to South Florida in 1991.  She finished high school in the United States and attended Florida Atlantic University.  Nadine graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in 1999.  In 2000 Nadine’s preschool career began.  For the past 20+ years Nadine has taught in a few schools in South Florida and started teaching in Atlanta in 2005. Throughout her teaching career she has taught art, Judaics, and children of all ages. In addition has remained current in continuing to pursue her own education and professional development classes.

Nadine Resides in Roswell with her Husband Barry and son Tyler.  Outside of work, Nadine is a “Soccer Mom”, is a big Atlanta United Fan,  loves doing activities with her family, enjoys cooking, reading, and spending time in her at home studio painting or creating with clay. 

Nadine believes she was born to be a teacher.  When she was a young girl she loved playing school with her dolls and taking care of her little brother, she started babysitting as a young teen, and worked at camps before starting her teaching career.  

From Nadine: Teaching is in my heart and is my passion.  I love watching children smile and cheer as they learn something new.  I am so excited and feel totally blessed to now be part of the Seeds of Wonder family. 

Teacher, Roswell

Emely is originally from Cuba and has a passion for working with young children and supporting their growth and development. She has been working in early childhood education since 2022 and has experience caring for infants and creating nurturing, engaging environments where children feel safe, loved, and encouraged to explore the world around them.

Emely holds a Master’s degree in General Psychology from Isabel I University in Spain, as well as a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential and First Aid training. Her educational background has given her valuable knowledge of human behavior, emotional development, and the importance of providing individualized care and support during early childhood.

Throughout her teaching career, Emely has developed a strong appreciation for the unique personalities and needs of every child. She enjoys planning meaningful activities, encouraging curiosity, supporting developmental milestones, and building positive relationships with families. Her caring nature, patience, empathy, and dedication help her create a warm and welcoming classroom environment.

Originally from Cuba, Emely spent four years living in Florida before recently relocating to Georgia. Spanish is her first language, and she continues to strengthen her English skills. She believes that learning is a lifelong journey and enjoys embracing new experiences, growing professionally, and learning from the children and families she meets along the way.

Outside of the classroom, Emely enjoys spending time with her family, watching movies, traveling, and exploring new places. She values family, personal growth, and the opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of others.

From Emely: I am excited to be part of Seeds of Wonder Journey School and to continue growing as an educator. I love working with children, caring for their individual needs, and watching them discover new things every day. It is a joy to be part of their early learning journey, helping them feel safe, confident, and loved as they learn, play, and grow.

Teacher, Roswell

Sharon is excited to join the SOWJS faculty this year! She is an experienced early childhood educator with a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. Sharon began her childcare career in 2019 as an infant and toddler teacher assistant, and quickly transitioned to a lead teaching position. Her eight years experience have all been devoted to caring for infants, including for Georgia's Early Head Start program. In each role she planned and led age-appropriate learning activities, kept her classroom clean, nurturing and safe, and she built trusting relationships with children and their families.

Before moving into early childhood education, Sharon spent many years in retail positions, including as a team lead and as a key holder. Most notably, Sharon more than a decade in the floral department at Publix, where her store regularly ranked first in sales during peak holidays.  Those jobs helped Sharon develop her leadership, reliability and strong customer service, and she brings those skills to her classroom and her communication with parents.

Sharon believes every child deserves a safe, loving environment where curiosity can grow. In her free time, she enjoys reading and spending time with family. 

Teacher, Roswell

Camila is originally from Colombia and moved to Georgia to begin a new chapter three years ago. her family consists of her wonderful husband and their daughter, who are her greatest blessings and her biggest motivation every day.

Camila's journey in education began eight years ago as a dance teacher. Through teaching dance, she discovered her passion for working with children and helping them learn, grow, and build confidence. That experience inspired Camila to pursue early childhood education as her career.

Last year, Camila earned her Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, and is excited to continue her education and grow professionally in the field of early childhood education. Camila has been chosen to participate in the national ElevatED training program this year. Camila is looking forward to blend her passion children and photography as the school's in-house photographer, helping showcase all that makes Seeds of Wonder such a special place for children and families.

Outside of the classroom, Camila loves dancing, reading, and writing poetry. Camila is naturally outgoing, curious, and always eager to learn something new. She enjoys creating meaningful connections with children and their families while fostering a warm, engaging, and nurturing learning environment.

From Camila: One of my favorite children’s books is No Matter What by Debi Gliori because it beautifully reminds us that love is unconditional, an important message I strive to share with every child I teach.

Substitute Teacher, Roswell

Justina grew up in South Georgia and currently lives in Kennesaw. Justina was a member of the SOWJS faculty team since 2024.  While she recently stepped out of the classroom for her dream role of Stay At Home Mom, she is comes back to visit quite often as a substitute teacher. 

Justine has experience working with all ages, infants through school age. An experienced teaching professional, Justina has worked in the field of early childhood education for 20 years, most recently as a member of the leadership team for Childcare Network. Justina  holds a CDA and received her diploma in Early Childhood Education in 2007 from Moultrie Technical College. 

Justina has two children; she loves reading and cats.  

Teacher, Alpharetta

Sara, a Staten Island, NY native, relocated to Atlanta at the age of three. After graduating from Norcross High School, she pursued her education at the University of West Georgia. In 2014, Sara transitioned from the corporate sector to become a stay-at-home mom following the birth of her first son.

In 2019, Sara began her teaching career at Gesher L’Torah Preschool, gaining valuable experience in pre-K, two and three-year-old classrooms. Her dedication to early childhood education is evident through her active involvement in the community. She has served as a PTA president for two years, currently is on the board of Scouts of America and co-presides over the GLT synagogue Sisterhood.

Outside of her professional life, Sara has two boys that keep her busy with their various activities. She enjoys reading, traveling, and spending time outdoors with her husband and children, engaging in activities such as hiking and gardening. Sara’s profound appreciation for Judaism has been enriched by her visits to Israel. This year, Sara is joining the ElevatED program as a Mentor Educator!

From Sara: I am thrilled to join Seeds of Wonder Journey School, and eager to contribute to my students’ educational journey, providing enriching and meaningful experiences. I love working with children and seeing their eyes light up when they discover something new!

Teacher, Alpharetta

Robyn is originally from South Florida. After Graduating from the University of Florida with a degree in Public Relations, Robyn moved to Atlanta. She worked as a fundraising campaign manager for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. She is a mother to three girls, all who attended Gesher L’Torah preschool. Her oldest daughter was part of the first graduating pre-K class of the preschool! Robyn began substitute teaching at Gesher preschool while her children were in attendance. She went on to become a preschool assistant for several years. After deciding she wanted more time in the classroom, she became the lead teacher for the two year old class.

Robyn enjoys being with her golden doodles, walking, reading and spending time with her friends and family.

From Robyn: It is special and meaningful to me to be joining Seeds of Wonder Journey School. I look forward to watching and assisting in the growth and development of each child. It fills my heart with such joy being a part of a child’s preschool experience.