Meet Our Dedicated Team of Educators at The Tot Lot in Hazlet, NJ
At The Tot Lot, our dedicated team is the heart and soul of our daycare and preschool center in Hazlet, NJ. Committed to providing a stimulating and supportive environment, our staff brings together a wealth of experience, boundless enthusiasm, and a shared passion for early childhood education. Each member of our team is carefully chosen not just for their expertise but for their genuine love for working with young minds. Get to know the incredible individuals who make every day at The Tot Lot an adventure in learning and growth.
Ashley Severino, Owner and Founder
With a steadfast dedication to early childhood development, Ashley has been a guiding force in the child care field since 2013. Her journey began with a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Monmouth University, laying the groundwork for her profound understanding of the cognitive and emotional needs of young children. Eager to deepen her expertise, she pursued and obtained a Master's Degree in Social Work from Seton Hall University, bringing a holistic and compassionate approach to the heart of The Tot Lot.
Safety is paramount in our center, and Ashley's commitment to the well-being of every child is evident through her CPR/First Aid certification. Her expertise extends beyond safety protocols; Ashley is proudly recognized by the NJ Registry as a Director, Head Teacher, and Group Teacher, showcasing her versatility and leadership in various roles within the childcare setting.
Beyond her professional dedication, Ashley is a loving mother to her son, Remington, and daughter, Bailee. When she's not at TTL, she seamlessly transitions into her role as "Mama," bringing a personal touch to her understanding of the joys and challenges of parenthood.
Emily Llauger, Director
Emily embarked on her journey in the field of early childhood education in 2008, and her commitment to fostering a positive and enriching environment for young minds has only strengthened over the years. Starting in the classroom, Emily quickly demonstrated a natural talent for connecting with children and understanding the intricacies of their developmental needs.
Equipped with a Bachelor's degree from Georgian Court University in English and Education, Emily brings a unique blend of linguistic and educational expertise to The Tot Lot. Her academic background enriches our programs, ensuring a language-rich environment that promotes early literacy and effective communication skills.
Safety is paramount at The Tot Lot, and Emily takes it seriously. With CPR/First Aid certification, she ensures that our staff is well-prepared to handle any situation that may arise. Emily's dedication to maintaining the highest standards in childcare is further underscored by her recognition by the NJ Registry as a Director, Head Teacher, and Group Teacher.
Beyond her professional achievements, Emily is a loving mother of two boys, Jameson and Lincoln. Her personal experience as a parent adds a special touch to The Tot Lot, infusing it with warmth and understanding that resonates with families. Emily's own journey as a mom informs her approach to childcare, creating a welcoming and supportive environment for both children and their parents. Under Emily's guidance, The Tot Lot thrives as a place where learning is a joyful adventure, and every child is valued for their unique strengths.
Sandy Hagberg, Assistant Director & Pre-K Teacher
Meet Sandy, our Assistant Director and Pre-K Teacher. With over 30 years of experience in the field of childcare, Sandy brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for nurturing young minds to our daycare and preschool center in Hazlet, NJ.
Sandy's journey in childcare began in the classroom, where she discovered her calling to positively impact the lives of children. Over the decades, she has honed her skills, becoming a seasoned professional with a deep understanding of early childhood development.
As our Assistant Director, Sandy plays a pivotal role in creating a warm and engaging atmosphere at The Tot Lot. Her commitment to excellence is evident in her CPR/First Aid certification, ensuring the safety and well-being of every child in our care. Sandy is also recognized by the NJ Registry, a testament to her dedication to maintaining high standards in early childhood education.
As the Pre-K Teacher at The Tot Lot, Sandy utilizes her vast experience to create a curriculum that not only prepares children for academic success but also fosters a love for learning. Her engaging and interactive teaching style ensures that each child receives the individualized attention they need to thrive.
In addition to her professional achievements, Sandy is a proud mom of two boys, Michael and Matthew. Her firsthand experience as a parent adds a special dimension to her role, fostering a sense of empathy and understanding that resonates with both children and parents alike.
Christina “Tina” McCabe, PM Supervisor & Jr. Preschool Teacher
Christina, affectionately known as Tina, is a dedicated member of The Tot Lot family, serving as our PM Supervisor and Jr. Preschool Teacher. With a passion for childcare that spans back to 2018, Tina brings a wealth of experience and a nurturing spirit to our daycare and preschool center in Hazlet, NJ.
As our PM Supervisor, Tina plays a crucial role in ensuring that the afternoon and evening hours at The Tot Lot are just as engaging and well-structured as the rest of the day.
In her role as Jr. Preschool Teacher, Tina infuses her classrooms with creativity, enthusiasm, and a love for learning. She understands the importance of these formative years and works tirelessly to create a curriculum that sparks curiosity and sets the stage for future academic success.
Tina's dedication to the well-being of every child is reflected in her CPR/First Aid certification, providing parents with the peace of mind that their little ones are in capable hands. Additionally, Tina is recognized by the NJ Registry, a testament to her commitment to maintaining the highest standards in childcare.
Jackie Frescki, Preschool Teacher
Meet Jackie, our vibrant and nurturing Preschool Teacher at The Tot Lot in Hazlet, NJ. With an extensive background spanning over two decades in working with children, Jackie brings a wealth of experience and a genuine passion for early childhood education to our daycare and preschool center.
Jackie is not just a teacher; she's a dedicated advocate for the importance of play in a child's developmental journey. She firmly believes that preschool teaching is a blessing, providing the time and space for children to explore, discover, and develop new skills. In her eyes, play is the essential "work" of young children, where their innate gifts and talents emerge.
Certified in CPR/First Aid and recognized by the NJ Registry, Jackie ensures a safe and secure environment for every child in her care. Her commitment to maintaining the highest standards in early childhood education is evident in the thoughtful and engaging curriculum she designs for her preschool students.
As a passionate educator, Jackie understands that the key to effective learning lies in creating moments of true involvement. She believes in fostering curiosity, joy, and a love for lifelong learning in every child. Jackie is dedicated to building great thinkers who are excited about their educational journey.
Beyond the classroom, Jackie finds solace and joy in the beauty of the beach and revels in the crisp air and vibrant colors of fall. Her favorite moments involve sitting outdoors under the moonlight with family and music, embracing the peaceful vibes that surround her.
Jackie's love for music is not just a personal preference; it's a philosophy she integrates into her teaching. She believes that music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and life to everything. This passion for the arts enriches the learning experiences of her preschool students, creating a dynamic and holistic approach to education.
Meghan Varga, Toddler Teacher
Introducing Meghan, our nurturing and experienced Toddler Teacher at The Tot Lot. Meghan's dedication to childcare is evident in her commitment to creating a safe, engaging, and enriching environment for our youngest learners.
With a journey in childcare that began in 2020, Meghan brings a fresh perspective and a passion for fostering the early development of toddlers. Her warm and caring nature, combined with her expertise, makes her an invaluable member of our team.
Meghan's commitment to the safety and well-being of the children in her care is underscored by her certifications in CPR/First Aid and her recognition by the NJ Registry. Beyond her role as a Toddler Teacher, Meghan also serves as an EMT, highlighting her exceptional level of preparedness and responsiveness in emergency situations.
Meghan's dual roles as a childcare professional and an EMT highlight her commitment to the well-being of children in every aspect. Her multifaceted skill set contributes to a holistic and safe environment at The Tot Lot, where parents can trust that their little ones are in capable hands.
Angelica Stoppiello, Step Up Teacher
Angelica is our Step-Up Program Teacher at The Tot Lot. Angelica's journey into the world of childcare is marked by a diverse background that reflects her unwavering dedication to the well-being and development of children.
Before dedicating herself to early childhood education, Angelica spent many years working with adults with developmental disabilities and also at The Community Medical Center. These experiences not only shaped her professional versatility but also fueled her passion for making a positive impact on the lives of others.
Certified in CPR/First Aid and recognized by the NJ Registry, Angelica ensures a safe and secure environment for the children in her care. Her commitment to maintaining high standards in early childhood education is a testament to her professionalism and dedication to fostering a nurturing atmosphere.
Angelica's academic pursuits include an Associates Degree in Liberal Arts, with plans to pursue a Bachelor's Degree. Her dedication to continuing education exemplifies her commitment to staying abreast of the latest developments in child development, ensuring the children at The Tot Lot receive the highest quality of care and education.
Beyond her professional achievements, Angelica is a loving mom to her son, Carmen. This personal experience as a parent adds a special layer of understanding and empathy to her role, making her not only an exceptional teacher but also a trusted and relatable figure for both children and parents.
Lisa Gervase, Infant Teacher
Meet Lisa, our nurturing and experienced Infant Teacher at The Tot Lot. With a career in childcare that spans over two decades, Lisa brings a wealth of knowledge and a warm, caring touch to our daycare and preschool center.
Lisa's journey in the field of childcare began in 1996, where she discovered her passion for fostering the early development of infants. After taking some years away to become a mom herself, Lisa returned to the field in 2018, bringing with her a deep understanding of the joys and challenges of parenthood.
Certified in CPR/First Aid and recognized by the NJ Registry, Lisa places the safety and well-being of the infants in her care at the forefront. Her dedication to maintaining high standards in early childhood education is a testament to her professionalism and commitment to creating a secure and nurturing environment.
In the infant classroom, Lisa focuses on creating a space where the unique needs of each baby are met with love and attention. Her wealth of experience enables her to understand the subtle cues of infants, ensuring that each child receives individualized care and support.
Marisela Bennett, Floater Teacher
Meet Marisela, our Floater Teacher. As one of eleven children, Marisela has a natural affinity for the dynamic and diverse needs of a busy childcare environment.
Embarking on her journey in childcare in 2020, Marisela quickly became an integral part of our team, bringing her unique perspective and passion for early childhood development. As a Floater Teacher, she seamlessly transitions between classrooms, providing support and care wherever it's needed most.
Currently enrolled in college courses, Marisela is on a path to further enrich her understanding of child development, with aspirations to pursue a career in Child Psychology. Her commitment to ongoing education ensures that she stays informed about the latest research and best practices in early childhood learning.
Certified in CPR/First Aid and recognized by the NJ Registry, Marisela prioritizes the safety and well-being of every child under her care. Her professionalism and dedication to maintaining high standards in childcare contribute to the positive and nurturing atmosphere at The Tot Lot.
Beyond her role as a Floater Teacher, Marisela's personal experience as one of eleven siblings gives her a unique perspective on the dynamics of large families, enriching her interactions with children and fostering a sense of inclusivity and understanding.
Join The Tot Lot Team
Are you passionate about early childhood education and making a positive impact on young lives? If you share our commitment to creating a loving and educational environment, we invite you to explore career opportunities with The Tot Lot. Join us in shaping the future and fostering a foundation for lifelong learning.