Learn more about our wonderful staff! Whether you're looking for an experienced group of child care providers or a welcome environment for your children to spend some time away from home, we're proud to offer both!

Miss Maureen  Director/VPK Teacher

I was born in upstate New York, but moved to Bradenton when I was 7 years old.  
I started teaching early childhood in 1984 as a substitute teacher and immediately fell in love with the kids!  As time went by I realized that furthering my education was essential to help the students achieve their own goals.  I currently hold a Staff credential as well as my Directors credential with V.P.K. endorsement.
The greatest lesson I have learned through the years is every day is a new day to discover the wonders of the world through the eyes of a child.​

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Miss Pearl
VPK/Camp Teacher

I was born in Glencoe, Minnesota and moved to Bradenton.  I am a fraternal twin and love spending time with my family and my two cats.  I've always had a passion for working with kids.  I have volunteered as well of have over five years experience working in child care centers.  I currently hold my CDA and look forward to transitioning to the VPK teacher at Our Kids West.  I am a proud mother of my son Henry and my daughter Rosalie.  I also can't wait to meet and work with your little ones.

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Miss Lisa
​Three's Teacher

Hey!  My name is Lisa.  I am born and raised in Bradenton Florida.  My four children are my world.  I also have two dogs and two cats.  My family and I love exploring Florida's parks because it's nice to see nature and all the wildlife.  I love spending time with my family.  I've worked in childcare for the past 6 years and I absolutely love it!  I love watching all the kids grow and learn throughout the years.  I am so excited for my adventure at Our Kids West!

Miss Elizabeth
Two's Teacher

Hi, name is Elizabeth.  I love spending my free time with my family and friends at the pool and beach.  I have been working in daycare since I was 16 years old.  I currently hold a CDA and am excited to pursue my Directors Credential and VPK endorsement.  I can't wait to meet and work with your littles!

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Miss Cory
One's Teacher​

Hi, my name is Cory.  I have been teaching preschool since I was 16!  I have a teenage daughter of my own.  I enjoy spending time with family and friends at the beach or pool.  I currently hold my CDA, first aid, Directors credential, infant toddler certificate and more!  I have worked with kids of every age and it is such an enjoyment to watch them learn and grow!

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Miss Jessica
Infant Teacher

Hi, my name is Miss Jessica!  I was born and raised in Manatee County Florida.  I have three wonderful children with one on the way!  We also have 4 guinea pigs that we all love.  On weekends, I love to be outdoors and go on little family adventures.  I love spending time with my family.  I have loved babysitting family, friends and neighborhood kids since the age of 13.  In high school I took childcare training classes and started my career in childcare at the age of 17!  I absolutely love teaching younge children, getting to watch them learn, grow and explore over the years.  I am so excited for my adventure at Our Kids West!

Miss Desi 
​Floater

Hi my name is Desiree Billa.  I love spending time with my family and my two dogs.  I recently graduated from Manatee High School in May of 2019.  I've always had a passion for working with kids, but it grew when I volunteered at my church to do Vacation Bible School and help with Sunday School.  In the future, I aspire to get my Bachelor's Degree in Child Development and in Social Work.

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Miss Nicole
​Substitute 

Hi, I am Ms. Nicole.  I will be working with your sweet babies on a part time basis.  I recently retired from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office after 25 years of service.  I was a Sergeant for 16 of those years.  I have longed to be able to have a flexible schedule as many of us do, to be with my children.  I love taking my 7 year old Natalee to school and picking her up daily.  My eldest daughter, MacKenzie is a full-time student at USF and also works at the Bradenton Urgent Care.  I enjoy having lunch last minute with her.  I have taught children since I was 22 years old at the churches I attend and continue to volunteer to work with them there.  I fell in love from day 1 working at Our Kids West to help out and have decided to be a permanent substitute.  When I do work, it has been often in the kitchen.  I love to cook and think the kiddos like when I do too!  I love to travel and recently adopted our pup Dixie.  Your children's smiles are what have made me make the decision to teach . . . (and when the retired boredom sets in, gives me something to do!)

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Miss Neffi
Kitchen Staff

My name is Nefateri, but everyone calls me Neffy for short.  I was born and raised in Bradenton FL!  I am the 4th oldest out of all my sisters.  I have a 4 year old son whom I love very much.  I am all about having fun!  I love hanging with my sisters, cooking and you can often find me doing tiktok's!  But most importantly I love keeping smiles on peoples faces!!

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