Emily Darrell, Executive Director
I began my relationship with the co-op as a nanny for twin 3 year olds. As I brought them to and from this quaint preschool around the corner, I couldn’t help but be drawn to its warmth. From the teachers to the families waiting with me by the door, I knew I needed to be part of this special place. Fast forward to now. I have been a summer camp teacher, 1:1 in-class support, and a full time teacher at the co-op. Now, as executive director, I am grateful to lead the team I admired for so long. I am in constant awe of the dedication, collaboration, and knowledge each staff member brings to their relationships with children and families. I learn from each of them every single day. I continue to stay at the co-op because of the way we view early childhood and the respect we give to children. LPCNS teachers support children’s autonomy in their exploration of the space and their relationships with the members of their classroom. We provide tools to help children learn to self-regulate and find what works best for their bodies as they grow to understand the dynamics of group life. Our relationships with parents and caregivers bridge the gap between home and school as we work to cultivate a child's love of school and build the foundation for lifelong learners.
Emily has been involved with the Co-op since 2012, becoming a full-time teacher in 2018 and executive director in 2020.
I began my relationship with the co-op as a nanny for twin 3 year olds. As I brought them to and from this quaint preschool around the corner, I couldn’t help but be drawn to its warmth. From the teachers to the families waiting with me by the door, I knew I needed to be part of this special place. Fast forward to now. I have been a summer camp teacher, 1:1 in-class support, and a full time teacher at the co-op. Now, as executive director, I am grateful to lead the team I admired for so long. I am in constant awe of the dedication, collaboration, and knowledge each staff member brings to their relationships with children and families. I learn from each of them every single day. I continue to stay at the co-op because of the way we view early childhood and the respect we give to children. LPCNS teachers support children’s autonomy in their exploration of the space and their relationships with the members of their classroom. We provide tools to help children learn to self-regulate and find what works best for their bodies as they grow to understand the dynamics of group life. Our relationships with parents and caregivers bridge the gap between home and school as we work to cultivate a child's love of school and build the foundation for lifelong learners.
Emily has been involved with the Co-op since 2012, becoming a full-time teacher in 2018 and executive director in 2020.
Meredith Werling, Teacher
There are so many things I love about working at Lincoln Park Coop! I’m so inspired and grateful for the dedication, passion and collaboration between staff members. The sense of community and partnership between families and teachers makes it a team effort in supporting each child’s individual learning profile. I love the respect we have for each child and the care we put into getting to know the whole family. Our school’s work in diversity, equity and belonging opens the door for bringing the things that are important to each family into the classroom. Learning more about each other not only strengthens our relationships and it opens kids’ eyes to people’s different experiences. After many years teaching Preschool, I’m so thankful the road led me to the coop, where kids, teachers and parents really dig into play. It’s such a hands-on place and there’s a magic to the interactions! Whether it’s a surprising insect discovery or an idea to put on a show in the outdoor classroom, you never know what the day will bring! My love of literacy and helping spark that for kids, inspired me to complete my Masters as a Reading Specialist. One of my favorite things to do with kids is hearing the kids’ stories, retelling favorite stories and bringing kids together to act those stories out!
Meredith joined the Co-op in 2017.
There are so many things I love about working at Lincoln Park Coop! I’m so inspired and grateful for the dedication, passion and collaboration between staff members. The sense of community and partnership between families and teachers makes it a team effort in supporting each child’s individual learning profile. I love the respect we have for each child and the care we put into getting to know the whole family. Our school’s work in diversity, equity and belonging opens the door for bringing the things that are important to each family into the classroom. Learning more about each other not only strengthens our relationships and it opens kids’ eyes to people’s different experiences. After many years teaching Preschool, I’m so thankful the road led me to the coop, where kids, teachers and parents really dig into play. It’s such a hands-on place and there’s a magic to the interactions! Whether it’s a surprising insect discovery or an idea to put on a show in the outdoor classroom, you never know what the day will bring! My love of literacy and helping spark that for kids, inspired me to complete my Masters as a Reading Specialist. One of my favorite things to do with kids is hearing the kids’ stories, retelling favorite stories and bringing kids together to act those stories out!
Meredith joined the Co-op in 2017.
Maddy Sperber-Whyte, Teacher
For the past 5 years I have taught preschool in Baltimore, Maryland. I am now settling into my new home in Chicago and am excited to be welcomed into the LPCNS community. On my first visit to the Co-op, I was taken by the curated simplicity of the classrooms with a comfortable air of mutual respect and trust between kids and teachers. The environment spoke to my core values of simplicity, integrity, peace, and community that I inherited from my background in Quaker Education. I believe that the best approach to teaching social-emotional resiliency is done by modeling. When I interact with children, my priority is to foster curiosity by presenting myself as a trusted co-operator of their natural inquisitiveness and creativity while also acting as a guide for their emotional processing in daily life. When I’m at home, I can be found enjoying hot tea, a podcast, and a puzzle.
Maddy joined the Co-op in 2025.
For the past 5 years I have taught preschool in Baltimore, Maryland. I am now settling into my new home in Chicago and am excited to be welcomed into the LPCNS community. On my first visit to the Co-op, I was taken by the curated simplicity of the classrooms with a comfortable air of mutual respect and trust between kids and teachers. The environment spoke to my core values of simplicity, integrity, peace, and community that I inherited from my background in Quaker Education. I believe that the best approach to teaching social-emotional resiliency is done by modeling. When I interact with children, my priority is to foster curiosity by presenting myself as a trusted co-operator of their natural inquisitiveness and creativity while also acting as a guide for their emotional processing in daily life. When I’m at home, I can be found enjoying hot tea, a podcast, and a puzzle.
Maddy joined the Co-op in 2025.
Kara Blain, Maternity Leave Teacher
My relationship with Lincoln Park Cooperative Nursery School stretches back more than 25 years. I taught full-time here from 1997 to 2001 in the very classrooms where my children, Kaeden and Christopher, later laughed, explored, and made their first friends. I returned to teach the two-day class in 2006 and again in 2016 during a colleague’s maternity leave. Coming back now truly feels like coming home to a community that celebrates children’s curiosity and each family’s unique story.
Born and raised in Canada, I received my Bachelor of Education from the University of Ottawa in 1994 and hold a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Western Ontario. Those studies instilled a deep respect for play-based learning and for the ways young children build knowledge through hands-on discovery. Whether we’re hunting for backyard “treasure,” dramatizing a favorite picture book, or practicing gentle problem-solving with friends, I strive to create spaces where every child feels safe, seen, and eager to try something new.
Since my first stint at LPCNS, I have taught in a variety of early-childhood settings, mentored new educators, and—most importantly—walked the parenting journey myself. These experiences remind me daily that strong partnerships between teachers and caregivers lay the groundwork for confident, compassionate learners. I am thrilled to rejoin this dedicated team and to grow alongside the children and families who make the Co-op so special.
Kara joined the Co-op in 1997-2001, 2007, 2017, 2025.
My relationship with Lincoln Park Cooperative Nursery School stretches back more than 25 years. I taught full-time here from 1997 to 2001 in the very classrooms where my children, Kaeden and Christopher, later laughed, explored, and made their first friends. I returned to teach the two-day class in 2006 and again in 2016 during a colleague’s maternity leave. Coming back now truly feels like coming home to a community that celebrates children’s curiosity and each family’s unique story.
Born and raised in Canada, I received my Bachelor of Education from the University of Ottawa in 1994 and hold a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Western Ontario. Those studies instilled a deep respect for play-based learning and for the ways young children build knowledge through hands-on discovery. Whether we’re hunting for backyard “treasure,” dramatizing a favorite picture book, or practicing gentle problem-solving with friends, I strive to create spaces where every child feels safe, seen, and eager to try something new.
Since my first stint at LPCNS, I have taught in a variety of early-childhood settings, mentored new educators, and—most importantly—walked the parenting journey myself. These experiences remind me daily that strong partnerships between teachers and caregivers lay the groundwork for confident, compassionate learners. I am thrilled to rejoin this dedicated team and to grow alongside the children and families who make the Co-op so special.
Kara joined the Co-op in 1997-2001, 2007, 2017, 2025.
Jamie Barron, Teacher
Jamie holds a master's degree in early childhood education with an approval in special education. She began her work in the early childhood field in college, and continued to work in preschool settings while completing her graduate studies. In 2010, Jamie began working as a developmental therapist in group and individual settings. As an educator and developmental therapist, Jamie has worked with a number of children and families with a range of developmental needs. She is a strong believer that play is essential in the development of young children. When she's not working Jamie enjoys practicing yoga, creating new desserts and spending time with her rescue dog Chance.
Jamie joined the Co-op in 2016-2019, 2022-2023, 2025.
Jamie holds a master's degree in early childhood education with an approval in special education. She began her work in the early childhood field in college, and continued to work in preschool settings while completing her graduate studies. In 2010, Jamie began working as a developmental therapist in group and individual settings. As an educator and developmental therapist, Jamie has worked with a number of children and families with a range of developmental needs. She is a strong believer that play is essential in the development of young children. When she's not working Jamie enjoys practicing yoga, creating new desserts and spending time with her rescue dog Chance.
Jamie joined the Co-op in 2016-2019, 2022-2023, 2025.
Rosalia Scholle, Teacher
2021-22 marks my 30th year as a teacher at LPCNS. I have taught all the classes we have offered over the years in a full time and part time capacity. I am grateful for the collaborative nature of our staff and the commitment of our parent body. One thing that has remained constant throughout my time at the coop is the deep respect I have for children, what they need to feel seen and heard in my classroom. I am nourished by helping children find tools and strategies that support their regulation so they can be present for building relationships with peers. I believe that a partnership with parents is an integral part of working with children. Every year I look forward to talking through the joys and challenges of parenting preschoolers and collaborating with parents and caregivers as they navigate these very important years. One reason I have stayed at the Co-op so long is the continued opportunities for learning. LPCNS offers many options for growth and connection between staff members. We engage in professional development on current topics in early childhood development every year. We have collaborative staff meetings every Friday afternoon. We have time to work on individual classroom projects and time to meet together to delve into a range of early childhood topics. I am grateful to be part of this team of professionals. I am a parent of two adult daughters and an avid quilter and embroiderer. I practice yoga and meditation and have been taking classes in mindful self compassion for the past two years. I am in a book club with 8 women I met when my children went to LPCNS. The Co-op is a school for your whole family and I can’t imagine working anywhere else!
Rosalia joined the Co-op in 1990.
2021-22 marks my 30th year as a teacher at LPCNS. I have taught all the classes we have offered over the years in a full time and part time capacity. I am grateful for the collaborative nature of our staff and the commitment of our parent body. One thing that has remained constant throughout my time at the coop is the deep respect I have for children, what they need to feel seen and heard in my classroom. I am nourished by helping children find tools and strategies that support their regulation so they can be present for building relationships with peers. I believe that a partnership with parents is an integral part of working with children. Every year I look forward to talking through the joys and challenges of parenting preschoolers and collaborating with parents and caregivers as they navigate these very important years. One reason I have stayed at the Co-op so long is the continued opportunities for learning. LPCNS offers many options for growth and connection between staff members. We engage in professional development on current topics in early childhood development every year. We have collaborative staff meetings every Friday afternoon. We have time to work on individual classroom projects and time to meet together to delve into a range of early childhood topics. I am grateful to be part of this team of professionals. I am a parent of two adult daughters and an avid quilter and embroiderer. I practice yoga and meditation and have been taking classes in mindful self compassion for the past two years. I am in a book club with 8 women I met when my children went to LPCNS. The Co-op is a school for your whole family and I can’t imagine working anywhere else!
Rosalia joined the Co-op in 1990.
Melissa Boshans, Teacher
I have been teaching and working in preschool classrooms since 2003. Nowhere else do I feel as purposeful, passionate, skilled, and fulfilled as I do in a classroom of young learners. Along with my co-teacher and our class, I love to be playful and have fun, to make discoveries and ponder mysteries. I am passionate about being there to support children and families who may be struggling (as we all do); to help them find strategies and support, as well as feel understood and accepted. Most of all, I love the opportunity to join the co-op community, to contribute to the sense of belonging, joy, and shared responsibility among teachers, children and their families.
Melissa joined the Co-op in 2011-2017 and 2025.
I have been teaching and working in preschool classrooms since 2003. Nowhere else do I feel as purposeful, passionate, skilled, and fulfilled as I do in a classroom of young learners. Along with my co-teacher and our class, I love to be playful and have fun, to make discoveries and ponder mysteries. I am passionate about being there to support children and families who may be struggling (as we all do); to help them find strategies and support, as well as feel understood and accepted. Most of all, I love the opportunity to join the co-op community, to contribute to the sense of belonging, joy, and shared responsibility among teachers, children and their families.
Melissa joined the Co-op in 2011-2017 and 2025.
Barbara Swem, Teacher
One of the many things I appreciate about the Co-op is the deep respect we have for children’s play, and the foundational nature of strong relationships for learning. When we carefully observe play, we often see how it reveals children’s many ways of knowing the world and the questions they are asking. Kids are coming to us just starting to figure out the people they want to be. I want to also incorporate and respect their unique families and diverse identities which contribute to that full personhood. I value children's capacity for growth and support meaningful risk taking in the process of learning. Mistakes are the ONLY way we learn, and we do it together. I see myself as a learner with the kids and families, and the insights that they bring are invaluable to our work together. I am also so grateful for the collaboration and insight of our reflective and committed staff-- they challenge and support me, and continue to make me a better teacher and human. I love bringing the arts and nature into the classroom. I could collect leaves and rocks and delight in random insect findings all day with the kids! Their sense of wonder is such a gift! Rambling in the forest is meditative for me, and I keep a nature journal and love playing with different art media. I am a singer and take guitar and ensemble classes at the Old Town School, and I have Music Together training. I am also interested in the use of mindfulness techniques for self regulation in the classroom.
Barbara joined the Co-op in 2007.
One of the many things I appreciate about the Co-op is the deep respect we have for children’s play, and the foundational nature of strong relationships for learning. When we carefully observe play, we often see how it reveals children’s many ways of knowing the world and the questions they are asking. Kids are coming to us just starting to figure out the people they want to be. I want to also incorporate and respect their unique families and diverse identities which contribute to that full personhood. I value children's capacity for growth and support meaningful risk taking in the process of learning. Mistakes are the ONLY way we learn, and we do it together. I see myself as a learner with the kids and families, and the insights that they bring are invaluable to our work together. I am also so grateful for the collaboration and insight of our reflective and committed staff-- they challenge and support me, and continue to make me a better teacher and human. I love bringing the arts and nature into the classroom. I could collect leaves and rocks and delight in random insect findings all day with the kids! Their sense of wonder is such a gift! Rambling in the forest is meditative for me, and I keep a nature journal and love playing with different art media. I am a singer and take guitar and ensemble classes at the Old Town School, and I have Music Together training. I am also interested in the use of mindfulness techniques for self regulation in the classroom.
Barbara joined the Co-op in 2007.
Debbie Safeblade, Assistant Teacher
At the end of the 2020-21 school year, I found myself on the search for a new preschool after twenty-five years. A swirl of emotions surfaced as I heard the news. In addition to sadness, I experienced great concern. Where was I going to find a program with a deep respect for children’s play? A program that celebrates the uniqueness of each child and that nurtures strong partnerships with families? Then I walked through the doors of LPCNS, and I felt home. I am grateful, delighted, and humbled to be part of this special school family. I look forward to the adventures that lie ahead — to days filled with friendships, wonders, discoveries, problems to solve, and acts of kindness. Hooray for a safe space where we can ask questions, take risks, make mistakes, and be ourselves.
Debbie joined the Co-op in 2021.
At the end of the 2020-21 school year, I found myself on the search for a new preschool after twenty-five years. A swirl of emotions surfaced as I heard the news. In addition to sadness, I experienced great concern. Where was I going to find a program with a deep respect for children’s play? A program that celebrates the uniqueness of each child and that nurtures strong partnerships with families? Then I walked through the doors of LPCNS, and I felt home. I am grateful, delighted, and humbled to be part of this special school family. I look forward to the adventures that lie ahead — to days filled with friendships, wonders, discoveries, problems to solve, and acts of kindness. Hooray for a safe space where we can ask questions, take risks, make mistakes, and be ourselves.
Debbie joined the Co-op in 2021.
Milly Gordon, Office Manager
I truly enjoy being part of a cooperative preschool community, where families and educators work together to create a nurturing and engaging environment for young children. There’s something incredibly rewarding about watching children explore, learn, and grow each day—developing new skills, forming friendships, and discovering the joy of learning through play. I value the sense of connection and collaboration that a co-op setting brings, and I’m grateful to contribute to a space where every child feels supported, curious, and confident.
Milly joined the Co-op in 2025.
I truly enjoy being part of a cooperative preschool community, where families and educators work together to create a nurturing and engaging environment for young children. There’s something incredibly rewarding about watching children explore, learn, and grow each day—developing new skills, forming friendships, and discovering the joy of learning through play. I value the sense of connection and collaboration that a co-op setting brings, and I’m grateful to contribute to a space where every child feels supported, curious, and confident.
Milly joined the Co-op in 2025.
