Our Staff
Emily Laguna - Owner and Director
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!

Jackie Hernandez - Assistant Director

Cynthia Sedano - Floater 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.

Hannah Zeineddine - Lead Toddler Teacher
With nearly a decade of experience in education, Ms. Hannah is a dedicated teacher specializing in early childhood development. Her career has been enriched by working with diverse curricula, including Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and RIE practices, which have shaped her approach to fostering young minds. Teaching is not just a profession for Hannah; it is a passion that drives her to mold the future through the growth and development of her students. Committed to excellence, Hannah is focusing on advancing her career in education, continuously seeking ways to enhance her impact and contribute meaningfully to future generations.

Dhamarys Villanueva - Lead Preschool Teacher
Hello! My name is Dhamarys Villanueva. I have my B.S in Child Development from CSUF. I have three cats and a dog. I enjoy going on hikes and trying new foods with my friends. I enjoy working with children because we learn from them just as much as they do from us. My favorite activity to do with our class is circle time!

Amanda Aydelott - Assistant Toddler Teacher
Hello! I moved to Los Angeles almost 3 years ago from Tennessee. I have worked with all ages of children in an elementary setting, through babysitting and volunteer opportunities, and now in the Toddler Room here at Hart Preschool. I love being able to help children understand and navigate the world around them and help grow their imaginations, harness curiosity in them, and see them through their many milestones. I enjoy being silly and messy in my daily life, which translates well in working with children. I am enrolled in PCC on the path to becoming a Speech Language Pathologist Assistant with the focus on working with children in the field. Currently in my free time, I play drums in a female music “collective”, lounge with the coolest cats I know (Jade and Jude), and try to get to aerial hammock/trapeze and contortion classes.

Ronnisha Gunn - Floater Teacher
Hi, my name is Ronnisha. I have been working with children professionally for about 2 years. I have a 6 year old daughter and love being a mother. I have my AA degree in Early Childhood Education. I understand that our children are the future, so I try my best to contribute to their learning abilities and growth. I am really excited to be a part of the Hart Preschool team. I always put my best foot forward and I can ensure that I will gain a connection with each child individually.

Johanna Hattaway - Assistant Pre-K Teacher
Hello Parents and Caregivers,
My name is Johanna Hattaway and I am very excited to be your child's Pre-Kindergarten Assistant Teacher. I have completed my Early Childhood Education Credits with UCLA and I am currently continuing my education to obtain my Bachelor's Degree. I am also a little leagues soccer coach and a cookie chair for Girl Scouts.
My first and main goal is your child's happiness and safety. I want each and every child to feel my warmth and compassion. I love children endlessly. I have three children of my own, a Jr High Student, a Kindergarten student, and a Preschooler. My youngest does attend Hart Preschool and it is such a joy to see her face throughout the day. I am excited to help your child learn and explore through play. There is nothing greater than seeing a child's happiness.
