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Our Staff
Emily Laguna - Owner
I am the founder of Hart Preschool. I am also a licensed pediatric occupational therapist (OT), and have extensive knowledge in child development, sensory processing, and the development of fine and gross motor skills. Prior to embarking on this preschool adventure, I worked in public schools for 13 years as an OT with children 3 – 18 years old, and in-home as an early intervention OT with kids ages birth – 3 years old. I have always loved working with children, and have also always loved animals. I look forward to this upcoming year of learning and growing!
Monique Ornelas - Director
Monique Ornelas joined our team in August 2021. She has worked in the Early Childhood Education field for 14 years. She is passionate about what she does, and values the relationship established not only with the children in her class, but also with their families. She is currently finishing her education in early childhood administration with UCLA online. She has an 8 year old daughter, and enjoys reading and spending time with her family. She is also quite crafty, and enjoys doings arts and crafts with the preschoolers. She believes the most effective way children learn is through play, and enjoys being fully present while they are learning and having fun.
Cynthia Sedano - Preschool Lead Teacher
My name is Cynthia but everyone calls me Cindy. I am a mother to two beautiful kids, my 11 year old daughter and 5 year old son. I knew as a little girl that when I grew up I wanted to work with kids. In my high school days I always took the opportunities to volunteer at Elementary schools, park and recreation with kids after school, ROP classes to learn art activities to do with kids and one of my electives in school was working at my high school daycare. My first real job was 13 years ago when I worked in a kindergarten class as a TA. Since then I’ve worked with infants, toddlers and preschoolers. Working with children is in my heart and I hope to continue to learn and grow from all the children that come into my life.
Wendy Snow - Floater Teacher
I'm Ms. Wendy. I was born and raised in Missoula, Montana. I moved with my family to Southern California in 1976., first to Pasadena and then to South Pasadena where I reside with my sister and niece. I received my Bachelors of Arts degree from Cal State LA. I received my administration and toddler units from Pasadena City College. I enjoy working in a preschool because I love playing and working with young children, watching them grow and learn through open, endless activities. I enjoy the outdoors - walking on the beach and in the rain, hiking in the mountains, and swimming. I enjoy going to the movies and reading novels, as well as listening to and going to live music festivals.
Lytika Luke - Toddler Lead Teacher
My name is Lytika Luke and I have been working with children for 11 years. I have worked with children as young as infants and as old as school age. I have three children, a 5 year old boy, a 9 year old girl and a 13 year old fur baby (dog) named Bizzy. My family loves being outdoors riding our bikes, skateboarding and going on long walks. I understand each child is unique and grows at their own pace. Working with children is what I enjoy and I treat them each with love, compassion and as individuals.
