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/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 Hope
​VPK/Camp Teacher​

Hello everyone!  I wish all your children success and happiness as well as your own as parents, family and friends.  I have previously worked with the Manatee County School Board.  I started out win the cafeteria and mastered all my duties.  I have been a baker, baking fresh yeast rolls from scratch, red velvet cakes among many more!  I also was a main dish cook and was able to cook without using a recipe.  I have enjoyed being a teachers aid and also a child development specialist.  I have been a school secretary under four guidance counselors at the very same high school I attended, along with being an administrative dean, teacher as well as director of our on site VPK Tiger Tots.  I have also had the pleasure of teaching combined classes of 9th - 12th grade.  After having my own business for six years, I missed teaching.I am enjoying working with your awesome children and the wonderful staff here!

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Miss Debora
VPK/Camp Teacher

My name is Debora. I was born in raised in Georgia. Since  2010 have resided in Florida. I am a mother of two adult children, a grandmother to seven, and also have two great grandchildren. My favorite hobby is reading the Bible. 

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Miss Vanessa
​Three's Teacher

Hello parents and students.  My name is Vanessa Santana.  I am a married mother of one boy and one girl.  We have a fur baby named Xochis, she is a chiweenie.  I am born and raised in Florida.  I've been interested in childcare for a while and finally was given the opportunity by the grace of God, Miss Maureen and the owners.  I am very thankful.  I am here to inspire and teach the kids the kids that the world can be anything they want it to be with education and determination.  

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Miss Amanda
Two's Teacher

I am originally from Boston, Massachusetts.  I have one very outgoing daughter, who is 9.  I have been in the childcare field for over 6 years, with the majority of that time being spent with the one's and two's.  I look forward to teaching your little ones and being part of the Our Kids West family!

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Miss Desi 
​One's Teacher

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 Elizabeth
​Infant Teacher

My name is Elizabeth and I have always known I wanted to work in this field since I was little.  I have been working in childcare for 5 years.  I am CPR and First Aid Certified and have all my hours.  I went to Lakewood Ranch High School and graduated in 2015!  My hobbies include reading, going to the beach, and spending time with friends and family!  I am excited to work with your kids and helping them grow!

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Miss Nefateri
​Infant Teacher

Hi!  My name is Nefateri, but I go by the name Neffy.  I'm currently from Bradenton, but have lived inSarasota almost my whole life.  I come from a family of 6.  My mom had 5 girls and 1 boy.  I am the 4th oldest, so I grew up with a lot of sisters, which was great.  I have an amazing son.  I am a fun, loving and caring person who always keeps a smile on my face.  I try to achieve things most say I can't.  Sometimes I am a little hard on myself, but who isn't?  I always give everything 100%.  I try to light up a room and keep my peers happy.  I encourage everyone to push for greatness.  I look forward to working with kids because it is definitely a great outreach and keeps you on all 10 of your toes!

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​Miss Courtney
​ Substitute Teacher

I am one of seven children, born and raised in Bradenton, Florida.  My parents have been married for 35 year.  I am a  mother of two beautiful children.  My children have attended Our Kids West since the new owners took over.  I was invited to join the team at Our Kids West when they found out I was pursuing a career in Early Childhood Development at SCF.  

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