Little Angels Learning Center
& Preschool
Little Angels Learning Center
& Preschool
of the First United Methodist Church
Director
Director
Taylor Moore
I am an advocate at heart and put everything I have into our community. During my free time I am often found at public events advocating for those who can’t for themselves, or out in nature with my dogs and daughter.
I started my journey in Early Education when my daughter was born and from the beginning I knew I found my passion. I have worked with infants all the way to high school students, and early education always pulls me back. I believe we are in this life together and we learn from each other as we grow. I am ready to bring all I have to LALC, and learn from all of you!
Assistant Director &
Lead KinderGarten Prep Teacher
Assistant Director &
Lead KinderGarten Prep Teacher
Jamilee Xiong
I received my degree in Early Childhood Education from Harding University in Arkansas. After graduating in 2004, I taught English at China Three Gorges University in Yichang, China for two years. I accepted the Lead Teacher position at LALC in February of 2007 and added the duties as the Assistant Director later that year.
I find a lot of joy in teaching young children and working together with their families. I truly believe that the first five years of a child's life play a significant part in the person they will become as an adult. I believe that learning is and should be fun and exciting. I love to see that light bulb go off and the child’s face to light up when they’ve just achieved something new! Learning should be a “want to” not a “have to”. Nurturing a child’s curiosity and creativity is a passion of mine.
Lead Infant Teachers
Charlotte Thompson Madeline Palas
Hi! My name is Charlotte and I'm from Minnesota! I'm studying elementary education at the University of Iowa. I have been working in childcare since I was 16 and I am so excited to be a Co-Lead in the Infant Classroom!
My name is Madeline, and I am one of the lead teachers in the infant classroom. I have worked at LALC since July 2024, and I have worked in childcare since 2023. Infants are such a fun age to work with, and it is so cool to see them grow and develop over the course of the year before they turn 1. I am a senior at the University of Iowa studying Speech and Hearing Sciences. After graduation, I plan to attend graduate school and earn my doctorate of clinical audiology.
Lead Young Toddler Teacher
Lucy O'Hern
Hi everyone! My name is Lucy, and I am the One’s Lead. I am currently a senior at the University of Iowa majoring in Elementary Education. I have always loved working with children and have spent the last six years working as both a babysitter and daycare worker. In my free time, I enjoy reading and doing all kinds of crafts, and my favorite color is royal blue!
Lead Older Toddler Teachers
Ryley Jett
Hello, I'm Ryley! I have always loved working with kids and am fortunate to work with the two-year-olds. Watching them grow into their personalities is one of my favorite parts of the job! I am currently a Junior at the University studying social work and education studies. Outside of work, I love to go on walks and spend time with friends and family.
Ella Mainville
Hello! My name is Ella, and I am very fortunate to be a lead teacher in the two’s classroom. This age group is so fun and full of energy. I love to watch them learn and discover the things that make them happy! I am a senior at the University studying English education at the secondary level. When I’m not teaching two’s or in school learning to teach bigger kiddos, I’m usually knitting, singing and playing guitar, reading, or hanging out with my cat Percy. I hope to make your children feel loved for who they are in our classroom!
Lead Preschool Prep Teachers
Hi! My name is Sara Greenwald, and I’m the co-lead teacher in the PK-1 room. I’ve been working in childcare since 2021, and it has truly become one of my greatest passions. Watching children grow, explore, and discover their voices reminds me every day why I love what I do.
I’m currently pursuing my degree in Speech and Hearing Science at the University of Iowa. My studies have deepened my understanding of how children learn, communicate, and connect with the world around them—something I bring into the classroom
Sara Greenwald Mackenzie Stella
Hi everyone! My name is Mackenzie and I have been at Little Angels since May 2025. I started as an assistant in the twos and moved into a lead role in PK1. I am currently an Elementary and Special Education major. I love getting to teach kids and watch them grow and learn. Outside of teaching I love reading, watching sports, and hanging out with my family. I am so glad I get to work with such amazing kids, parents, and teachers!
Lead Preschool teacher
Ms Amanda Nelson
I have been at LALC since March of 2022. I have a degree in Elementary Education and taught 3rd grade back in the day. For over 25 years I have been teaching at the Early Childhood age level. My favorite! Through developmentally appropriate play, we will learn all the skills your child will need to prepare them for PK3. I place a lot of importance on social/emotional growth. With focus on those areas, our academics become easier to master.
My 3 children live in New York City and Chicago. Fun places for me to visit! For many years, my main hobby has been knitting. It is very therapeutic for me!