Shelly Jackson-Green

My name is Shelly Jackson-Green, and I am a seasoned educator with over 20 years of experience spanning various roles within the field of Early Childhood and Elementary Education. I was born and raised in Memphis, TN, a city that instilled in me a deep sense of community and a passion for fostering learning from an early age.

I hold a Master of Education in Administration and Supervision and a Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood and Elementary Education, both from Southern University A&M College. My educational background, combined with my hands-on experience, fuels my passion for cultivating learning environments where young minds can thrive and develop a lifelong love for learning.

My professional journey in education is characterized by diverse experiences across various facets of teaching and learning. Throughout my career, I’ve had the opportunity to teach in numerous school districts across the country and overseas.

Outside of my professional life, I am happily married and a proud mother of two sons. Our shared experiences have been my constant source of inspiration and joy. When I am not working, I enjoy traveling and watching movies.

Instructional Assistant

Danielle Larkin

Hello, my name is Danielle Larkin and I have worked with children and families as an early childhood educator and social worker since 2006. I studied psychology as an undergraduate at the University of Virginia, and then completed my Master of Social Work at Virginia Commonwealth University. I have spent the last 6 years as a lead teacher at a play-based preschool in Raleigh, NC, and also have experience in Head Start. I believe children learn best through play and an emergent curriculum due to the focus on the child’s needs and interests, social and emotional well-being, and as a member of the community. As a previous social worker at the University of North Carolina, I have experience working collaboratively with children and families and connecting families with resources in their community.

In my free time, I enjoy being outdoors, hiking, sewing, and spending time with my friends and family. I live in Raleigh with my husband and two children.

Rebecca Farrington

Instructional Assistant

Lenora Hayes

Hello, my name is Lenora Hayes, mother of two daughters and seven grandchildren. I have been an early childhood educator for over 30 years. I’m excited about joining the Early Learning Center as an instructional assistant.   In my free time,  I love spending quality time with my family and friends or cuddling on the couch with a good book.

Grace Luy 

I am a National Board Certified teacher with 16 years of experience in Early Childhood Education. As a TEACH NC Early Childhood Scholar, I am currently completing my Masters in Early Childhood Intervention and Family Support from The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill by May 2024. I was born and raised in the Philippines. My husband Paul and I are blessed with 2 children and 2 dogs.

Instructional Assistant

Xiomara De Jesus

Hola! My name is Xiomara DeJesus.  You can call me Ms. DeJesus. I started as a volunteer at Millbrook ES for 2 years. This is my fourth year working with Pre-K. I studied a Bachelor's Degree in Office Administration at Interamerican University in PR and various courses in Special Education. I'm currently completing my Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential. I was born in New Jersey and grew up in Puerto Rico. In my free time, I enjoy traveling with my family, visiting different restaurants and playing outdoors. I'm married and have two beautiful daughters. 

I enjoy working with students and making a positive difference in their lives.

Kia McCarthy

My name is Kia McCarthy.   I graduated from Shaw University with a Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood and a Master's Degree in Curriculum and Instruction. I have over thirty years of experience working with children from infants to preschool, as an Early Childhood Educator. My teaching philosophy has always been to "treat others like you want to be treated". By doing this, I create a welcoming environment with an invitation for imagination, choices, and ideas. Each child is unique and learns in a different way. My job is to help your child discover his/ her individuality and work alongside you to help them maximize it. On a personal note, I’m married with six children. I have three grandchildren and three dogs. I’m very excited to be here and I’m looking forward to a great school year!

Instructional Assistant

Marquita Gaines

Gaby Quinteros

My name is Ms. Gaby and this is my 5th year teaching. I have been in the early childhood field for the past 15 years in various roles. I have held positions as a teacher, early intervention specialist, parent educator, and home visitor. I am also a mom to 3 young children ages 4, 2, and 8 months. Early education is my passion and I have learned so much throughout my career that I am looking forward to using it with our students at the ELC.

Instructional Assistant

Marquetta Jemmott

For as long as I can remember, I have always wanted to be a helping hand. Leading the way for the children of our future generations is where my passion lies. As a mother of 4, I strive to keep my children active and engaged and will do the same for yours. I will be able to better support the needs of the kids as I continue working toward my Bachelor's in Psychology with a focus on child development. I look forward to working with you all.

Serena Reddick-Lofton

Hello, my name is Serena Reddick-Lofton, and I am currently a Teacher at The Early Learning Center at Memory Road. I have been a preschool teacher for 20 years. I am a  proud graduate of The University of Mount Olive. I obtained a BK Licensure from North Carolina Central University and am pursuing a graduate degree from Shaw University. My Head Start Teacher inspired me to pursue a career in Early Childhood Education. I proudly served ten years of service in the United States Army. I have a true passion for working with young children. I strive to create a community of learners that nurtures growth and development. 

Instructional Assistant

Michelle Ray

My name is Jacquelyn Michelle Ray. I prefer to be called Ms. Michelle. I’m so excited to work with the students and families at the Early Learning Center at Memory Road. I was born in Tennessee and have lived in North Carolina for the past 16 years. This year I will be going into my 4th year as an Instructional Assistant with Pre-K. I received a B.S. from the University of Tennessee.

Cynthia Smith

I love teaching Pre-K!  This is my 29th year of teaching young children. I have taught Head Start in Pennsylvania, Pre-K in Georgia as well as Kindergarten and Pre-K in North Carolina. I grew up near Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. I graduated from the University of Delaware with a double major in Early Childhood Education and Young Exceptional Children.  I currently live in Apex with my husband, Dennis. We have two daughters and 4 wonderful grandchildren. Spending time with family is our priority. Most weekends you will find me playing with my 3 grandsons.  I enjoy traveling, gardening, and reading. We love traveling to Clemson to visit our granddaughter.

I love to learn and play. Young children learn best while playing. Our classroom is a busy place full of singing, dancing, building, and exploring. By working in partnership with families, we can give children the skills to be ready to learn and to enjoy learning. My goal in teaching young children is to instill a love for lifelong learning.

Instructional Assistant

Reyna Roman

Hello, my name is Reyna Roman and I have worked in Prek for 8 years with Ms. Cindy Smith. I love teaching Pre-K students! I have also worked in a daycare with infants and toddlers. I enjoy playing with and helping children learn daily. 

During my personal time, I enjoy shopping and spending time with my family.  My family and I love to cook.  During the summer, I love to travel around the country.