Hello, I’m Lisa Kampwirth! I’ve dedicated over 30 years to Early Childhood Education and have found a true home here at Total Child. This community of parents, children, and educators is close to my heart because we are committed to play-based learning that nurtures every aspect of a child. I’m so proud to lead our passionate team, who all bring incredible energy to supporting child-led learning and developmentally appropriate practices. I hold a master’s degree in Early Childhood Education from the Erikson Institute. I’m also a proud mom of two – one in college in Switzerland and the other living in Los Angeles – perfect destinations for family vacations! My husband, Mark, our dog Shadow, and I live in Wilmette, where I enjoy swimming, neighborhood walks, and making art.
Jessica Grace
Assistant Director
Hi! I’m Jessica Grace. Working at Total Child feels magical because children are truly at the heart of everything we do. I’m so grateful to be part of a community that values play-based education and fosters meaningful connections between families and staff. Since joining Total Child in 2013, I’ve had the joy of teaching 3s, 4s, and kindergarten before moving into the administrative team in 2023. I have over 20 years of diverse educational experience, including roles as a middle school teacher and an ABA therapist. I hold a B.A. in Elementary Education from Elmhurst College, along with an endorsement in Early Childhood Education from National Louis University. In my free time, I love cuddling my cat, Emunah, reading, traveling, biking, hiking, and playing board games.
Maddie Prokop
Teacher, Room 23 (2s) - “The Discoverers”
Hello! I’m Maddie Prokop, and I’m thrilled to teach the two-year-olds at Total Child. I’ve been passionate about play-based teaching since 2018, ever since volunteering in a Reggio Emilia-inspired classroom sparked my love for early education. I hold a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of Illinois. Outside of teaching, I enjoy spending time by the lake, reading, playing tennis, and playing with my dog Charlie.
Jailine Hernandez
Assistant Teacher, Room 23 (2s) - “The Discoverers”
Hi, I’m Jailine Hernandez, and I’m grateful to be at Total Child, surrounded by inspiring teachers and wonderful children. I earned a BFA in Acting from UIC and found my passion for working with kids while exploring acting. My family means the world to me, and on weekends, I enjoy cooking with my mom and spending time with my cat, Cleo.
Jenna Stern
Assistant Teacher, Room 23 (2s) - “The Discoverers”
Hi there! I’m Jenna Stern, and I love being part of the wonderful team here at Total Child. With a background in Political Science from Lake Forest College, I’ve spent many years working with children. Growing up in Connecticut, I found joy in both childcare and pet care, like dog walking. Now, I live in Evanston with my roommates and our two cats. In my free time, I enjoy art, skateboarding, and getting to know the city.
Marina Martin
Teacher, Room 22 (3s) - “The Explorers”
Hi! I’m Marina, or Mari for short. I love working at Total Child, where play-based learning is celebrated! Since earning my master’s in Early Childhood Education from DePaul, I’ve taught in both Reggio and Montessori settings. I also hold a fine arts degree from Loyola, and I enjoy bringing creativity and my love of art into the classroom. I live in Rogers Park, where I spend my free time drawing, reading, and learning to play the violin.
Miyoung Lee
Assistant Teacher, Room 22 (3s) - “The Explorers”
Hello, everyone! I'm Miyoung, and I’m thrilled to be part of Total Child’s warm, welcoming community. I have degrees in Creative Writing and Teaching Korean, and 17 years of teaching experience, with 13 years in Early Childhood Education. I love creating play-based curricula that inspire curiosity. I live in Morton Grove with my husband and mother-in-law. I love exploring new cultures and am currently learning Japanese.
Ian Jeanette
Assistant Teacher, Room 22 (3s) - “The Explorers”
Hi, I’m Ian Jeanette and one of the best parts of working at Total Child is getting to know each child and parent! My background in Early Head Start education from Holland, Michigan, fuels my passion for inspiring a love of learning through play. I love exploring the city of Chicago, especially its beaches. At home, I enjoy relaxing with my two cats and a good book or art project.
Cynthia Johnson
Teacher, Room 25 (3s & 4s) - "The Investigators"
Hi, my name is Cynthia Johnson. I am so excited to teach at Total Child! As both an artist and a follower of the Reggio Emilia approach, I love exploring and learning alongside children as we grow together. I have worked with young children for 15 years in a variety of settings, both inside and outside the classroom. I hold a master’s degree in early childhood education from CU Denver and a bachelor’s degree in fine arts from the Kansas City Art Institute. I live in Skokie with my husband, Ross, our teenage son, and our dog, Cody. In my free time, I enjoy gardening, reading, and - when I can find a spare moment - throwing pots on the wheel.
Kassidy Muller
Assistant Teacher, Room 25 (3s & 4s) - "The Investigators"
Hello, my name is Kassidy Muller. I love fostering creativity and curiosity at Total Child. I have 10 years of experience working with children and hold a bachelor’s degree in psychology with a studio art minor. When I’m not teaching, I enjoy painting, writing, dancing, and spending time with my five younger siblings.
Barbara Becker
Teacher, Room 26 (4s) - “The Adventurers”
Welcome! I’m Barbara Becker, and I love being part of the Total Child community. For 20 years, I’ve focused on supporting children through play-based learning and working together with families. I hold a bachelor’s in literature and psychology from Loyola University and have taken several early childhood education classes. As a mother of three, two of whom have also worked at Total Child, I enjoy reading detective novels, making jewelry, and taking long walks.
Tracy Friedman
Assistant Teacher, Room 26 (4s) - "The Adventurers"
Hi, my name is Tracy Friedman. I am so excited to be part of the Total Child community! I love how this community celebrates the many different ways children learn about the world through the “hundred languages of children,” supported by both educators and parents, so each child can thrive and grow. I earned my bachelor’s degree in child study from Tufts University and have previously taught preschool enrichment classes at my local YMCA. I’m also the proud mom of three grown children. In my free time, I enjoy reading, crocheting, and traveling to new places.
Cory Schantz
Assistant Teacher, Room 26 (4s) - "The Adventurers"
Hi, I’m Cory Schantz. I love exploring the outdoors with children, and Total Child’s connection to nature is a dream come true. I hold a degree in Statistics and have worked with children for eight years. I live in Chicago with my girlfriend, where we enjoy discovering new restaurants and exploring neighborhoods.
Danielle Bernal
Teacher, Room 21 - Kindergarten
Hello! My name is Danielle Bernal, and I am so excited to join the Total Child community! I love that Total Child embodies so many of the values I believe in and am passionate about in early childhood education. I am especially looking forward to engaging in long-term projects with my students. I have worked in early childhood education for about 15 years, with experience teaching children from two years old through kindergarten. My experience includes working in university lab schools as well as directing a school for a year. I hold a master’s degree in Early Literacy from the University of Maine. I recently became a mom to my wonderful son. I also have an amazing husband and a 12-year-old dog, Bubbas. As a family, we love to travel, spend as much time in nature as possible, and try new foods.
Frankie Gilmore
Assistant Teacher, Room 21 - Kindergarten
Hi! My name is Frankie Gilmore. I believe children learn best through play, and I love how Total Child’s commitment to play-based learning embraces children’s wide-eyed curiosity about the world. I’m so excited to be part of this fantastic community of educators and families!
I’ve been working in early childhood education since 2021, starting my journey in my home state of Colorado before moving to the amazing city of Chicago. I’m currently studying Communication and Media at DePaul University and also hold a certification in Early Childhood Education. As a big movie fan, I can often be found at the theater or writing screenplays of my own. Growing up with my amazing mom and four younger sisters taught me so much about working with kids - and about the kindness, empathy, and patience they need and deserve as they grow into curious learners and caring people.
Shannon Netemeyer
Music Teacher/Floating Assistant Teacher
Hi, I’m Shannon Netemeyer, and I’m delighted to be part of Total Child’s vibrant community. With a Bachelor’s in Music and over five years of experience teaching young children about music, I enjoy every creative opportunity. I’m originally from St. Louis and now live in Chicago, where I love learning new art forms, reading in parks, and visiting family.
Aela Morris
Floating Assistant Teacher
Hello! I’m Aela Morris, and I love working at Total Child because the school values Reggio and play-based education. With over ten years in child care, I hold a B.A. in English from Macalester College. Outside of school, I’m likely at the library, exploring Chicago, or singing show tunes with friends.
Ashleigh Macke
Floating Assistant Teacher
Hi! My name is Ashleigh Macke, and I’m so excited to continue my early childhood career at Total Child! I have been an educator for the past 24 years and have had the privilege of teaching children from birth through fifth grade. Before joining Total Child, I spent six years specializing in inclusion at a private school. I’m the proud mom of three adult children, Cade, Claire, and Cory, who all live in Chicago. They are the reason my husband and I recently moved to Chicago from St. Louis. Outside of school, I enjoy reading, cooking, trying new restaurants, watching college sports, and hiking. I also love spending time with my pets—one dog and three cats!
Meet Our Staff
Lisa Kampwirth
DirectorHello, I’m Lisa Kampwirth! I’ve dedicated over 30 years to Early Childhood Education and have found a true home here at Total Child. This community of parents, children, and educators is close to my heart because we are committed to play-based learning that nurtures every aspect of a child. I’m so proud to lead our passionate team, who all bring incredible energy to supporting child-led learning and developmentally appropriate practices. I hold a master’s degree in Early Childhood Education from the Erikson Institute. I’m also a proud mom of two – one in college in Switzerland and the other living in Los Angeles – perfect destinations for family vacations! My husband, Mark, our dog Shadow, and I live in Wilmette, where I enjoy swimming, neighborhood walks, and making art.
Jessica Grace
Assistant DirectorHi! I’m Jessica Grace. Working at Total Child feels magical because children are truly at the heart of everything we do. I’m so grateful to be part of a community that values play-based education and fosters meaningful connections between families and staff. Since joining Total Child in 2013, I’ve had the joy of teaching 3s, 4s, and kindergarten before moving into the administrative team in 2023. I have over 20 years of diverse educational experience, including roles as a middle school teacher and an ABA therapist. I hold a B.A. in Elementary Education from Elmhurst College, along with an endorsement in Early Childhood Education from National Louis University. In my free time, I love cuddling my cat, Emunah, reading, traveling, biking, hiking, and playing board games.
Maddie Prokop
Teacher, Room 23 (2s) - “The Discoverers”Hello! I’m Maddie Prokop, and I’m thrilled to teach the two-year-olds at Total Child. I’ve been passionate about play-based teaching since 2018, ever since volunteering in a Reggio Emilia-inspired classroom sparked my love for early education. I hold a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of Illinois. Outside of teaching, I enjoy spending time by the lake, reading, playing tennis, and playing with my dog Charlie.
Jailine Hernandez
Assistant Teacher, Room 23 (2s) - “The Discoverers”Hi, I’m Jailine Hernandez, and I’m grateful to be at Total Child, surrounded by inspiring teachers and wonderful children. I earned a BFA in Acting from UIC and found my passion for working with kids while exploring acting. My family means the world to me, and on weekends, I enjoy cooking with my mom and spending time with my cat, Cleo.
Jenna Stern
Assistant Teacher, Room 23 (2s) - “The Discoverers”Hi there! I’m Jenna Stern, and I love being part of the wonderful team here at Total Child. With a background in Political Science from Lake Forest College, I’ve spent many years working with children. Growing up in Connecticut, I found joy in both childcare and pet care, like dog walking. Now, I live in Evanston with my roommates and our two cats. In my free time, I enjoy art, skateboarding, and getting to know the city.
Marina Martin
Teacher, Room 22 (3s) - “The Explorers”Hi! I’m Marina, or Mari for short. I love working at Total Child, where play-based learning is celebrated! Since earning my master’s in Early Childhood Education from DePaul, I’ve taught in both Reggio and Montessori settings. I also hold a fine arts degree from Loyola, and I enjoy bringing creativity and my love of art into the classroom. I live in Rogers Park, where I spend my free time drawing, reading, and learning to play the violin.
Miyoung Lee
Assistant Teacher, Room 22 (3s) - “The Explorers”Hello, everyone! I'm Miyoung, and I’m thrilled to be part of Total Child’s warm, welcoming community. I have degrees in Creative Writing and Teaching Korean, and 17 years of teaching experience, with 13 years in Early Childhood Education. I love creating play-based curricula that inspire curiosity. I live in Morton Grove with my husband and mother-in-law. I love exploring new cultures and am currently learning Japanese.
Ian Jeanette
Assistant Teacher, Room 22 (3s) - “The Explorers”Hi, I’m Ian Jeanette and one of the best parts of working at Total Child is getting to know each child and parent! My background in Early Head Start education from Holland, Michigan, fuels my passion for inspiring a love of learning through play. I love exploring the city of Chicago, especially its beaches. At home, I enjoy relaxing with my two cats and a good book or art project.
Cynthia Johnson
Teacher, Room 25 (3s & 4s) - "The Investigators"Hi, my name is Cynthia Johnson. I am so excited to teach at Total Child! As both an artist and a follower of the Reggio Emilia approach, I love exploring and learning alongside children as we grow together. I have worked with young children for 15 years in a variety of settings, both inside and outside the classroom. I hold a master’s degree in early childhood education from CU Denver and a bachelor’s degree in fine arts from the Kansas City Art Institute. I live in Skokie with my husband, Ross, our teenage son, and our dog, Cody. In my free time, I enjoy gardening, reading, and - when I can find a spare moment - throwing pots on the wheel.
Kassidy Muller
Assistant Teacher, Room 25 (3s & 4s) - "The Investigators"Hello, my name is Kassidy Muller. I love fostering creativity and curiosity at Total Child. I have 10 years of experience working with children and hold a bachelor’s degree in psychology with a studio art minor. When I’m not teaching, I enjoy painting, writing, dancing, and spending time with my five younger siblings.
Barbara Becker
Teacher, Room 26 (4s) - “The Adventurers”Welcome! I’m Barbara Becker, and I love being part of the Total Child community. For 20 years, I’ve focused on supporting children through play-based learning and working together with families. I hold a bachelor’s in literature and psychology from Loyola University and have taken several early childhood education classes. As a mother of three, two of whom have also worked at Total Child, I enjoy reading detective novels, making jewelry, and taking long walks.
Tracy Friedman
Assistant Teacher, Room 26 (4s) - "The Adventurers"Hi, my name is Tracy Friedman. I am so excited to be part of the Total Child community! I love how this community celebrates the many different ways children learn about the world through the “hundred languages of children,” supported by both educators and parents, so each child can thrive and grow. I earned my bachelor’s degree in child study from Tufts University and have previously taught preschool enrichment classes at my local YMCA. I’m also the proud mom of three grown children. In my free time, I enjoy reading, crocheting, and traveling to new places.
Cory Schantz
Assistant Teacher, Room 26 (4s) - "The Adventurers"Hi, I’m Cory Schantz. I love exploring the outdoors with children, and Total Child’s connection to nature is a dream come true. I hold a degree in Statistics and have worked with children for eight years. I live in Chicago with my girlfriend, where we enjoy discovering new restaurants and exploring neighborhoods.
Danielle Bernal
Teacher, Room 21 - KindergartenHello! My name is Danielle Bernal, and I am so excited to join the Total Child community! I love that Total Child embodies so many of the values I believe in and am passionate about in early childhood education. I am especially looking forward to engaging in long-term projects with my students. I have worked in early childhood education for about 15 years, with experience teaching children from two years old through kindergarten. My experience includes working in university lab schools as well as directing a school for a year. I hold a master’s degree in Early Literacy from the University of Maine. I recently became a mom to my wonderful son. I also have an amazing husband and a 12-year-old dog, Bubbas. As a family, we love to travel, spend as much time in nature as possible, and try new foods.
Frankie Gilmore
Assistant Teacher, Room 21 - KindergartenHi! My name is Frankie Gilmore. I believe children learn best through play, and I love how Total Child’s commitment to play-based learning embraces children’s wide-eyed curiosity about the world. I’m so excited to be part of this fantastic community of educators and families! I’ve been working in early childhood education since 2021, starting my journey in my home state of Colorado before moving to the amazing city of Chicago. I’m currently studying Communication and Media at DePaul University and also hold a certification in Early Childhood Education. As a big movie fan, I can often be found at the theater or writing screenplays of my own. Growing up with my amazing mom and four younger sisters taught me so much about working with kids - and about the kindness, empathy, and patience they need and deserve as they grow into curious learners and caring people.
Shannon Netemeyer
Music Teacher/Floating Assistant TeacherHi, I’m Shannon Netemeyer, and I’m delighted to be part of Total Child’s vibrant community. With a Bachelor’s in Music and over five years of experience teaching young children about music, I enjoy every creative opportunity. I’m originally from St. Louis and now live in Chicago, where I love learning new art forms, reading in parks, and visiting family.
Aela Morris
Floating Assistant TeacherHello! I’m Aela Morris, and I love working at Total Child because the school values Reggio and play-based education. With over ten years in child care, I hold a B.A. in English from Macalester College. Outside of school, I’m likely at the library, exploring Chicago, or singing show tunes with friends.
Ashleigh Macke
Floating Assistant TeacherHi! My name is Ashleigh Macke, and I’m so excited to continue my early childhood career at Total Child! I have been an educator for the past 24 years and have had the privilege of teaching children from birth through fifth grade. Before joining Total Child, I spent six years specializing in inclusion at a private school. I’m the proud mom of three adult children, Cade, Claire, and Cory, who all live in Chicago. They are the reason my husband and I recently moved to Chicago from St. Louis. Outside of school, I enjoy reading, cooking, trying new restaurants, watching college sports, and hiking. I also love spending time with my pets—one dog and three cats!