Merrifield Campus: LadyBug 1
Mikea Green
Program Assistant
Hello my name is Mikea Green from Alexandria, VA. I am the new Program Assistant at Ladybug Academy. I am a dedicated professional with a commitment to working with children. My journey of child education and care began at the age of 15, where I started babysitting. From those early experiences, I developed a profound understanding of the joys and challenges of nurturing young minds. Throughout my educational journey, I’ve remained deeply involved with children, even while attending college getting a degree in Communications and Marketing at Claflin University. I’ve dedicated my time to volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club and the YMCA, while also directing a facility just last year where I provided support, mentorship, and guidance to children from diverse backgrounds. My passion for working with children stems from my desire to make a positive impact on their lives. I believe that every child deserves to be heard, valued, and empowered to reach their full potential. Witnessing the growth, development, and resilience of children inspires me on a profound level. I’ve decided to work at Ladybug academy because I believe in Ms.Ola’s business her approach with the same love, care, and attention that she gives to her these children. What's more, I genuinely enjoy the camaraderie and teamwork among my coworkers. We share a common goal of creating a nurturing and stimulating environment for the children under our care. One interesting fact about me is that I have a passion for creativity and movement. During my free time, you'll often find me in the art of painting. Whether it's on canvas or paper, painting allows me to express my inner thoughts, emotions, and inspirations in unique and beautiful ways. In addition to painting, I find joy in dance. Movement has always been a form of self-expression for me, whether it's through contemporary, hip-hop, or classical styles. Furthermore, I am also an enthusiastic cheerleader. The energy, teamwork, and spirit of cheerleading exhilarate me. Being part of a team, lifting spirits, and spreading positivity through cheers and routines bring me immense fulfillment and happiness.
Kim Barnwell
Lead Teacher: Infant Class
My name is Kimberly Barnwell. I am the Lead Teacher in the Infant room. I started working in child care in 1987 when I was in high school, I began my teaching career as a part-time Teacher after school and loved it so much that I ended up working with children for 14 years. I left child care in 2001 and worked at various office positions for 15 years. That is when I realized I missed working with children and came back to the field in 2016. I especially love bonding with the babies and watching them grow and develop. I have worked as a Lead and Assistant Teacher with infants, 2-year-olds, and 4-year-olds. I have kept in contact with some of the children that I took care of when they were babies. I love working at LadyBug, everyone is so great! It has been a great experience since I started working here in November of 2019 and I am looking forward to working with your child.
Nyasha McFadden
Lead Teacher: Toddler Class
My name is Ms. Nini, delighted to serve as a Lead Teacher at Ladybug Academy. With a wealth of experience spanning 9 years, my journey in childcare has been nothing short of fulfilling. Originating from my days babysitting my younger cousins and siblings, my passion for nurturing young minds was ignited. Witnessing the growth of children has been rewarding, especially observing them absorb and retain the knowledge imparted. I truly feel like I’m making a difference, Ladybug Academy holds a special place in my heart as it allows me to perpetuate my passion and make a meaningful impact continuously. An interesting fact about me, I have a quirky penchant for collecting shoes, adding a touch of uniqueness to my character.
Chelse Parker
Lead Teacher: Two&Half Class
Hello, parents and students! My name is Ms. Chelse Parker. Holding the role of Lead Teacher at Ladybug Academy, I am dedicated to fostering an enriching environment for all of us to grow and learn together. Equipped with certifications in ADA and CPR, among others, I bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to our classroom. Over the past four years, my journey in childcare has evolved from an assistant role in 2020 to a passionate educator today. During my free time I like to complete puzzles, enjoy outings with friends, and relax. I eagerly anticipate embarking on this new journey with your little ones, nurturing their curiosity and igniting their love for learning.
Merrifield Campus: LadyBug 2
Saima Jahan
Center Director
Hello LadyBug Families! My name is Saima and I’m from Toronto, Canada. I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Education and Political Science from the University of Toronto, along with a TESOL certificate to teach English as a second language. I have more than eight years of teaching and management experience which includes managing local and foreign Teachers abroad. I started my career in this field mentoring and teaching adults, but developed a passion for working with young minds more; their curiosity, innocence, and perspective encourage me to advance in this field. I have traveled around the world to participate in many educational projects and fulfill my passion for teaching. I strongly believe that every child has full potential, they just need the guidance to help them reach that potential. At the end of the day, nothing makes me happier than knowing I have made a difference today, and that the children are looking forward to another day with me tomorrow. My journey as a Teacher and Program Director here has been very rewarding. As a Center Director, I hope to continue managing all our operations and classrooms in the best ways possible, while ensuring our amazing Teachers receive the support they deserve. The goal is to implement our Program standards into each classroom, where our children thrive academically, emotionally, and physically. We want to make sure our wonderful families are always satisfied with what we offer here. It’s been an honor to be a part of LadyBug Academy, and I am certain that it will continue to be rewarding!
Tiffani Bivins
Operations Manager
Hello LadyBug Families! My name is Tiffani Bivins and I am from Southern Maryland. I have an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Special Education from the College of Southern Maryland, and Bachelor’s Degree in History from the University of Arizona Global Campus. I have worked in childcare for over ten years. I started as an Aide then worked my way to Management. The reason I picked teaching was because of all the developmental milestones that I will be able to witness. The first five years of a child’s life is complex and ever changing. As a childcare provider I can mold and help them reach different goals. As part of the Management team, I will be able to help the students more by assisting the Teachers and creating strategies to ensure the success of the classrooms and academy. I believe there is no such thing as a bad or unteachable student. Also, I believe that it is the Teacher's responsibility to find a way to reach and teach each student individually. With that said, I cannot wait to see what the upcoming years bring us at LadyBug Academy 2.
Leslie Aguilar
Pre-K Lead Teacher
Hello LadyBug Families! I’m Leslie Aguilar, one of the Lead Teachers in Pre-K. I attended Laurel Ridge Community College and received my Associates Degree in General Studies. I moved here to Fairfax on my 27th birthday. I started working with younger children and found myself having more fun with PreK children while reminiscing my childhood. I love seeing children learn and develop, especially when it involves us getting messy and having fun while they’re learning! I’m truly enjoying my time here at LadyBug Academy 2. The children are precious and I love challenging myself everyday to teach them new things, as well as learn from them. Fun facts: I like to go out on adventures, visit new places, try new things,and travel!
Monica Castellanos
Lead Teacher
Hi LadyBug Families! My name is Monica Castellanos and I’m the Lead Teacher for the Toddler Classroom at LadyBug Academy 2. I was born in Baltimore, Maryland and raised in Virginia. I started babysitting my younger relatives during my School years. Working with children has become a passion for me. My kindergarten Teacher, now my Mentor, inspired me to become a Teacher! I’m excited to see these children grow and reach their full potential. My time with them feels very rewarding and enjoyable since there is never a dull moment. Ladybug Academy 2 has opened many doors, filled with opportunities and growth for me! I’m excited to see what’s more to come, and I am grateful for the endless love and support from you all!
Alyssa Russell-Sadoff
Lead Teacher
Hello! My name is Alyssa Russell-Sadoff and I am a Lead Teacher! I grew up in Southern California and moved to the East Coast in 2021. I graduated from Sonoma State University with a B.A. in Liberal Studies (Elementary School Teacher Track) with a concentration in Spanish in 2021. I am passionate about ensuring that children learn in a positive, individualized, inclusive, and creative environment. I want to empower students to become life-long learners! LadyBug Academy’s focus on cultivating a safe space for children to flourish creatively and developmentally inspires me daily. In my free time, I love to hike, dance, and play! I try to embrace my inner child whenever I can, and with that, I am extremely grateful I get to work with kids who motivate me to always live, laugh, and love!
Hoi Tung Cheung
Co-Lead Teacher
Hello LadyBug families! My name is Hoi Tung Cheung. Everybody calls me “Ms. Hoi” and I am an Assistant Teacher in the Infant classroom. I moved to the US from Hong Kong in 2017 and currently live in Gainesville with my husband and 17 month old son. My son also attends LadyBug Academy! While Cantonese is my native language, I am also fluent in Mandarin. Some of my favorite things to do are swimming, playing tennis, hiking, and biking during my free time. I love traveling and experiencing different cultures and their food. I have travelled to many Asian countries including Japan, Korea, Taiwan, and Thailand. I am learning more about the American culture everyday and I love this country too! I have been working at Ladybug Academy 2 for two years. I truly enjoy working with babies and watching them grow, helping them discover the world, and learning new skills. They bring me so much joy. My son and I are very happy to be a part of the LadyBug Academy family.
Ms Tiffa
Lead Teacher
Hello Ladybug Families! My name is Aouatef Benamar and everybody calls me “Tiffa”. I grew up in Morocco, and currently live in Virginia. I moved to the United States seven months ago in search of better opportunities and to learn more about the American culture. Learning about the American culture has been one of my favorite aspects of being in the United States. I have a Bachelor’s Degree in English Studies, as well as a Master’s Degree in Translation and Cross-cultural Communication. I have been working with children for almost three years now. Working with young minds makes me feel like a kid from the heart, and I love it! Passion, organization, and determination are three qualities that represent me. I believe that children are the future workforce of our society. As educators, it is our responsibility to guide and equip them with the tools they need to succeed in life and contribute to society. I’m so happy to be a part of the Ladybug Academy team, and certainly looking forward to making a difference! Fun Facts: I’m the eldest sister of three adorable siblings. Purple is my favorite color, and oatmeal raisin cookies are my favorite treat.
Arlington Courthouse
Cooper Yancey
Lead Teacher
Hello! My name is Cooper Yancey. I am a Lead Teacher at LadyBug Academy 2. I received my Bachelor of Science in Sociology from Old Dominion University. I am from a small town in Virginia named Louisa County. As far back as I can remember, I have always wanted to work with young children. They bring a certain energy and purpose-driven mentality out of me. I’m just a man pursuing my dreams to create a positive impact on future generations. There are many reasons as to why I chose the position at Ladybug Academy 2. I simply love working with children. LadyBug has a great work atmosphere, and I’m looking to better myself through this wonderful opportunity. An interesting fact about me, I believe there is a way to create world peace through patience, active listening, and learning from each other's experiences.