Our AMAZING STAFF
Our Lead Teachers and Teacher Assistants understand that it is paramount to create relationships with our students and their families. We work hard to make those necessary connections in order to foster a safe and nurturing learning environment.
Our staff is exceptional. Our highly qualified teachers bring lots of experience, knowledge, and creativity to each of their classrooms. Every teacher strives to bring learning to life as they are truly dedicated to their students.
We all believe that PLAY should be at the forefront of our curriculum. Children will be offered endless opportunities to explore and experience our sensory driven, hands on classrooms.
Amy Wonner
Owner - Director
Lead Teacher - 3's & 4/Y5's
Welcome! My name is Amy Wonner. I am the Owner/Director and a Lead Teacher for our 4/Y5's at NOT JUST PLAY. I received my BA in Education from Michigan State University and taught elementary (4th, 3rd, 1st grades) all over the country, including: Las Vegas, NV, San Diego, CA, and Clayton, NC (outside of Raleigh). Although I started my career in elementary, I switchedI to Early Childhood Education over 16 years ago. I worked a couple of years in corporate childcare chains and then became the teacher/director of a local Co-Op preschool. The knowledge and experience that I gained during those 6 years, helped motivate me to open my own school. I consider NOT JUST PLAY a labor of love and I am extremely proud of the reputaion we have built within our community. I am thankful for our wonderful staff and all of the amazing families that have become part of the NJP story. I have always believed that children learn best through PLAY. We understand the importance of focusing on the WHOLE child. Early Childhood Education is menat to develop a child's social, emotional, and physical growth. When the foundation is set, we can incorporate academics which ultimatley prepares them for "big kid" school. I consider it an absolute WIN if our kids don't even realize they are "learning". My goal is to provide lots of hands on, sensory driven opportunities that peak a child's natural curiosity to learn. "Academics" can be taught in a FUN way!
Doreen Dwyer
Teacher Assistant - 3's & 4/Y5's
Hi, I'm Ms. Doreen. I have over 20 years of experience working with children. My personal life includes two grown daughters and hobbies such as: beach trips, sewing, hiking, home projects, and cycling. I am eager to start this new chapter with NOT JUST PLAY and am excited to see the kids grow and learn.
Alicia Kliemann
Teacher Assistant - 3's & 4/Y5's
Hi, I'm Alicia! I have been married for 15 years and I am a mom of four (ages 14, 11, 10, and 8). I have over 10 years of experience working in preschool and childcare settings, where I've loved creating a safe, caring, and fun environment for children to learn and grow.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my husband, watching my kids play sports, spending time at the beach, and getting lost in a good book. I'm passionate about working with children and feel grateful to be part of their early years and development.
Alexis Maul
Teacher Assistant- 3's & 4/Y5's
Hi! I'm Alexis! I'm a mom to an amazing 8 year old and I have always had a love for working with children. I previously worked as an Assistant Preschool Teacher with Utica Community Schools, and I'm so excited to be back in the classroom and joining the NOT JUST PLAY family!
Outside of the classroom, I love going to the gym, catching a Tigers Game, campimg, and spending time with my husband and son. We also have three dogs who keep us plenty busy! I'm so excited to get to know all of the children and famiilies at NOT JUST PLAY and to be a part of such a fun and special place!
Jessica Sutphin
Teacher Assistant - 3's & 4/Y5's
My name is Jessica and I'm so excited to be a part of your child's early learning journey! Outside of NOT JUST PLAY, I enjoy spending time with my family, reading , crafts, golf, and thrifting. I am looking forward to getting to know each child and family and having a FUN year!