Janet Tinkel, 5 day Fours Lead Teacher
I am so blessed to be able to teach at PCP. My belief is that each child is special and unique with various talents and skills. My goal is to help develop each child’s individuality by providing them with a fun, positive and nurturing environment!
Prior to PCP I taught Pre-K at a private preschool in Pennsylvania for nine years. I also have previous experience with the three-year-old program and kindergarten as well. I earned my bachelor’s degree from Ball State University in Muncie, IN. My membership with The National Association of Education for Young Children (naeyc) is currently in excellent standing. I am passionate about my job and want to foster a love of learning in all my students.
My husband, Scott, and I moved to Daniel Island in July 2016. We really enjoy living here and are comfortable calling it home. We have two grown children who are such joys in my life. In my spare time I enjoy being outside hiking or bike riding. I also enjoy traveling whenever I can, reading and spending time at the beach!
I appreciate everyone trusting me with their most precious gift…their children. Looking forward to meeting everyone!
Danielle Tamez, 4 day/5 day Fours Lead Teacher
Hi! I graduated from Monmouth University with a B.S. in Special Education and spent several years teaching in NJ public schools until taking time off to stay home with my kids. I moved from New Jersey to Charleston in 2009. I live in Mt. Pleasant with my husband, three children, ages 15, 13 and 10, and my two dogs (Cordelia) and (Tucker). I was extremely excited to join the Providence Preschool team this year as a lead teacher for the 4's.
When I'm not teaching you can usually find me binge watching old tv shows with my kids. I also enjoy trying to keep my houseplants alive by ignoring them as much as possible and listening to music too loudly in my car.
Kris Ishler, Fours Teacher Assistant
My name is Kris Ishler. I am originally from Washington state, where most of my family still lives. If you haven't been to the West Coast, it's a beautiful place to take a vacation. My family and I have lived in Mount Pleasant now for five years. This is my Fourth year teaching at Providence Church Preschool. I started in the 1's, moved into the the 4's, and this is my Second year teaching the 3's. They are such a wonderful age to teach! they are wanting to learn everything at this age!
I have one daughter Kaitlynn (15) who attends the School of the Arts, and is majoring in Theater. I love to travel, go to the beach, bake, and anything to do with my family! I am looking forward to getting to know you and your child this school year!
Loretta Slease, Threes Teacher
I grew up in Western Pennsylvania. I studied early childhood education, and I taught preschool for years. I am truly passionate about my work. I love my career choice, and I know the children receive part of my heart every year.
I enjoy spending time with my two adult children. I also love yardwork, reading, crafting, and helping others.
Kristin Fennell, Threes Teacher
Hi, my name is Kristin Fennell. I moved from Atlanta to Charleston in 2007 after earning my BA in Psychology with a minor in Early Childhood Education. I have previously worked as a lead teacher in a two-year-old classroom, as well as an ABA therapist for children with Autism. I am looking forward to starting my first year here as lead teacher in the three-day threes class. This is such a wonderful age to watch the children learn and grow throughout the year.
My husband and I have two energetic boys, ages 8 and 5, along with our beagle (Gir) and cat (Godzilla). We love to make the most of our home on Daniel Island. On most weekends you can find us kayaking, swimming, or going on hikes together.
My youngest just finished his last year at PCP and will be joining his brother at Daniel Island School. We have had such a fantastic experience here and I am looking forward to joining this wonderful team!
Vanessa Schlegel, Threes Teacher Assistant
Hello, my name is Vanessa! A lot of kids call me Nessa. I'm originally from Stuttgart, Germany, but moved to the USA in 1999. When I met my future husband, I transferred to Charleston in 2006. We now have two energetic boys (9 &7 years old). Our family is very active, and I love to be outside, go hiking, bike rides, anything with water, and read.
As my son attended Providence, I got familiar with the preschool and started being a substitute teacher for a couple years. In 2020 I became the teacher's assistant for the 3 year old class and truly enjoyed it.
I love to connect with the children, see their eyes light up when they learn something new, and all this through play, craft, signing, etc! Their personalities are just precious and the preschool age is so much fun. I feel very honored and excited to meet the new children and parents (& the extended family).
Emily Estes, Threes Teacher Assistant
Hi. I'm Emily Estes! I am originally from Arkansas, but moved to Charleston in 2011 to attend the College of Charleston. I graduated in 2015 with my BS in Special Education. I taught for 6 years in BCSD but decided to move to an assistant role while I finish my Masters in Speech Language Pathology at USC. I am so excited to work with the 3's as it is an important age for development. I love helping children build their independence and skills in all areas.
When I'm not working or completing school work, you can find me hanging out with my boyfriend, Grayson, and my cat, Palms. I enjoy working jigsaw puzzles, watching football, and reading by the pool. And of course, trying all the wonderful restaurants in the Charleston area!
Charlene Monteleone, Twos Teacher
My name is Charlene but most people call me Chaz. I am originally from Scotland and moved to America 8 years ago!
I am a big lover of sensory play for kids, and do this a lot at home with my own 5-year-old son Bash. I am beyond excited to be back in the classroom. I look forward to helping your child learn and grow.
Jennifer Reed, Twos Teacher
My name is Jen Reed. I was born in Australia, but grew up in Connecticut. My family and I moved from California 4 years ago. I have 2 kids - age 8 and 5. I taught English in the Peace Corps and I am excited to be teaching again!