Meet the Teachers Who Help Little Minds Grow!

Hello! My name is Melissa Altman, and I am proud to serve as the Director of Play Time Early Childhood Enrichment Center. I graduated from Mercyhurst University in Erie, Pennsylvania, in 1996 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Family Ecology, along with minors in Early Childhood Education and Gerontology.

With over 32 years of experience in the early childhood field, I have had the privilege of serving in many roles, including Lead Teacher, Assistant Director, and Director. These experiences have given me a deep understanding of the importance of nurturing children, supporting families, and building strong educational communities. Around Play Time, I often joke that I'm the "jack of all trades," happily wearing many hats, from educator and administrator to engineer, housekeeper, and even chef when needed!

For the past two and a half years, I have also had the opportunity to support residents at King David Nursing Home, assisting on two pavilions to help ensure residents receive the quality care they deserve and serving as a resident liaison when needed. This role has further strengthened my passion for caring for and advocating for others across all stages of life.

Beyond my professional life, my greatest joy comes from my family. I am a proud mother of three amazing children, Kara, Kaitlin, and TJ, wife to my wonderful husband of 30 years, Jim, and most recently, a delighted grandmother to my beautiful grandson, Wyatt who I am proud to say is in our infant class.

When I'm not at work, you can often find me spending quality time with family and friends, traveling, relaxing by the pool, listening to great music, and sharing lots of laughter. I feel incredibly fortunate to spend each day doing what I love: helping children learn, grow, and thrive in a nurturing and enriching environment.

With over 20 years of experience working with children of all ages, along with my background as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), I bring both knowledge and compassion to my work with children and families. I am dedicated to creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive.

One of the most rewarding parts of my job is watching children reach their important milestones and celebrating all of their "firsts" alongside their families. From those first smiles and coos to sitting up independently, holding a bottle, and taking those exciting first steps, each achievement is a special moment that I cherish.

I look forward to building strong relationships with our families and partnering with you as we support your child's growth and development. It is truly a privilege to be part of these precious early years and to watch your little one’s flourish.

Hello my name is Stephanie Alomar Nunez and I am you Lead Toddler 1 Teacher! I’m originally from Dorado, Puerto Rico, but I grew up in South Carolina. At the age of 19, I moved to Ohio, where I began an exciting new chapter in my life and attended Kent State University.

My passion for working with children began in 2015 when I started my career supporting children with disabilities. That experience was incredibly meaningful and helped me discover how much I truly enjoy nurturing, teaching, and advocating for young children. Watching children learn new skills, build confidence, and reach important milestones is one of the most rewarding aspects of my work.

I am committed to creating a positive, caring, and inclusive environment where every child feels valued, supported, and encouraged to reach their full potential. Building strong relationships with children and families is something I cherish, and I look forward to partnering with families to help each child grow, learn, and succeed.

Hello! My name is Ms. Nettie, and I have been working in the early childhood field for 40 years. It's hard to believe how quickly the time has gone! I have proudly been a part of the Play Time ECEC family for the past 30 years, and I have loved every minute of this amazing journey.

Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of teaching infants, toddlers, and preschoolers, gaining valuable experience and creating lasting relationships with countless children and families. One of the greatest joys of my work is being part of a child's early years and helping them build the foundation for a lifetime of learning.

I truly enjoy watching children grow, develop new skills, gain confidence, and discover the world around them. Each day brings new opportunities to nurture, encourage, and celebrate their accomplishments, both big and small.

I feel incredibly grateful to have spent so many years doing what I love and look forward to continuing to make a positive impact in the lives of the children and families at Play Time ECEC.

Hello! My name is Charlene Davis, and I am the Co-Lead Teacher in UPK 2. I have been blessed to work in the early childhood field for over 20 years and am proud to have been part of the Play Time ECEC family for the past 8 years.

As a wife, mother of five amazing children, and grandmother of five beautiful grandchildren, family is at the heart of everything I do. I am passionate about creating a warm, welcoming, and nurturing classroom where children feel safe, valued, and excited to learn each day.

One of my greatest joys is sharing my creativity with children and encouraging them to explore their own imaginations. Through hands-on experiences, artistic expression, and meaningful learning opportunities, I love helping children discover new ideas and build confidence in themselves. Watching their curiosity grow and seeing where their creative minds take them is one of the most rewarding parts of my work.

I feel honored to be a part of each child's early learning journey and look forward to helping them learn, grow, and shine every day.

Hello! My name is Jaelen, and I am a creative, caring, and dependable early childhood professional who loves helping children learn, grow, and express themselves in meaningful ways.

One of the unique experiences I bring to the classroom is my love of language and culture. I speak Portuguese and had the incredible opportunity to live in Brazil for six months, which gave me a deeper appreciation for connecting with people from different backgrounds. I have also traveled to Paraguay, Portugal, and France, experiences that broadened my perspective and inspired my love of learning about the world.

I enjoy bringing that creativity, curiosity, and global perspective into the classroom each day. I believe children learn best when they feel encouraged to explore, ask questions, and express their unique personalities. It is a joy to help create an environment where every child feels valued, supported, and excited to learn.

I truly enjoy being a part of the Play Time ECEC teaching team and building positive relationships with our children and families. When I'm not in the classroom, you'll likely find me outside on the playground joining in the fun. I especially love a good game of tag!

I look forward to helping your child learn, grow, and make wonderful memories throughout their time at Play Time ECEC.

Hello! My name is Kaitlin Altman, and I am passionate about helping children learn, grow, and succeed. I graduated from Lakeland Community College in 2021 with an Associate of Arts Degree and went on to earn my Bachelor of Arts Degree in Elementary Education from Lake Erie College in 2024.

Throughout my college years, I balanced attending school full-time while working three jobs, including serving as a nanny. These experiences strengthened my work ethic, adaptability, and dedication to supporting children and their families.

As an educator, I strive to create a supportive, inclusive, and engaging learning environment where every child feels valued, motivated, and empowered to reach their full potential. My teaching philosophy centers on fostering curiosity, encouraging critical thinking, and inspiring a lifelong love of learning. Through thoughtful instruction, positive classroom management, and continuous professional growth, I work to meet the diverse needs of each student and help them thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

One of the highlights of my year is returning to Play Time Early Childhood Enrichment Center during summers and school breaks. I cherish the opportunity to reconnect with the children, support their learning journey, and continue being part of the Play Time family.

I look forward to creating meaningful connections, inspiring young learners, and helping every child build the confidence and skills they need to succeed.

Hello! My name is Ms. Abby, and I am passionate about supporting children as they learn, grow, and thrive. I hold a Master’s Degree in Education from John Carroll University and have worked with children in both daycare and school-age settings for over 12 years.

Currently, I serve as an Elementary School Counselor, where I have the opportunity to help students develop the social, emotional, and academic skills they need to be successful. During my summer break, I am excited to work PRN at Play Time ECEC, continuing to do what I love most, supporting children and building positive relationships with families.

I believe every child deserves a nurturing, safe, and encouraging environment where they feel valued and confident. My goal is to help children build strong connections, develop important life skills, and enjoy meaningful learning experiences along the way.

I look forward to spending time with the wonderful children and families at Play Time ECEC and creating a fun, positive, and memorable experience together!