Our Staff
My child looks forward to arriving at school and being greeted by Stay and Play's friendly staff and teachers. The teachers do a fantastic job of creating an atmosphere that is engaging and encourages learning through play and exploration. We are so grateful for Stay and Play and the care and attention they've given to our family over the years. - Christina McDonald
Stay and Play Staff - (Equal Opportunity Employer)
Fabulous Foxes
Sarah Cooper - Lead Teacher
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Elizabeth Richardson - Assistant Teacher
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Rainbow Raccoons (MWF)
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Tricia Swisher– Teacher
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Wonderful Wolves
Valerie Anderson – Lead Teacher
(Also Lead Teacher for Adventure Afternoons)
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Chris Hunsberger –
Assistant Teacher
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Terrific Turtles
Zsuzsanna Reimherr –
Lead Teacher
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Allison Woods – Assistant Teacher
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I like teaching Toddlers because... They have so much curiosity and are at the early stages of discovering themselves and the world around them. I like helping to build a foundation of their future learning friendships and exploration.
Stay and Play is special because ... The care and dedication of the staff and teachers for the individuality of each child and respect for them and their families. When People say 'you have your hands full teaching a full class of little ones' ... I respond with You must be able to laugh and move quickly! |
Darling Deer
Katie Tanner – Lead Teacher
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Chrissy Fritton – Assistant teacher (M/W/F)
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ADVENTURE AFTERNOONS:
Valerie Anderson: Lead Teacher (see above under Wonderful Wolves)
Bianca Dellanno: Assistant Teacher (seen here)
Valerie Anderson: Lead Teacher (see above under Wonderful Wolves)
Bianca Dellanno: Assistant Teacher (seen here)
- From: Totowa NJ
- Currently a junior studying Communication Sciences and Disorders at Penn State
- Hobbies: I love traveling and spending time with friends and family
- I’m excited to work at stay and play because I have always loved working with young children! Before I came to Penn state I was a camp counselor, coach and nanny. I’m happy to be back in an environment where I can watch them learn, grow, and have fun!
- Favorite Quote: “The best is yet to come”
Patt Campolongo - Substitute Teacher
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Why do you like teaching toddlers/preschoolers? Being a teacher and caregiver has always been part of who I am. Children are precious.
It’s fun to see them grow and change. And to see that “ah ha” moment in their expressions of understanding or questioning something new. Playing and using imagination is learning and everyone loves to play. The other day during Adventure Afternoons in the big room, a child asked me if I would run a race with her. I said, “Yes!”. She then matter-of-factly looked me in the eye and told me, “Try your best, don’t just let me win!” I laughed to myself thinking how she doesn’t see or care that I am over a half century older than her and that she clearly has the advantage of winning this race. That genuineness is what is so unique about preschoolers… they don’t see age, gender or race during their play… they just explore and want to have fun! What is special about Stay and Play? State College Presbyterian Church is my home church for over 40 years. My children went to Stay and Play when it first started in the ‘80s. Pat Strong and Carol Reddinger created a safe, loving environment for community members in need of childcare in our church. Over the years, this loving childcare grew into a thriving, unique pre-school that promotes independence and growth in children. An environment that accepts and nurtures all children. The teachers and directors are all genuinely caring and nurturing people. I am in awe of them and appreciate the opportunity to be a small part of the program. People often say you have your hands full teaching a class full of little ones. How would you respond to that? Yes we do! And it’s a great responsibility that I take very seriously. My role as an assistant teacher is to support the lead teacher in guiding the children with the daily activities. We work as a team to provide a safe and nurturing environment. Being proactive and planning ahead helps create a safe and fun place for all. I am continuously amazed at the children’s imagination, kindness, humor and creativity. They make me smile and laugh. No two children are alike and that is what makes everyday fun. |
Administration
Laura Steager – Director
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Aida Pistone – Assistant Director
*(& Rainbow Raccoons: 3 & 4 year olds - MWF)
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Music
State College Presbyterian Church
132 West Beaver Avenue State College, PA 16801 Phone: 814-238-2422 email: officescpc@gmail.com Sunday Worship ~ In the Sanctuary 10 :15 am - face masks are optional Live-Streamed Worship ~ An email is sent out on Saturdays (to those on our mailing list) with a link to our live-stream of the worship service on YouTube at 10:15 am on Sundays. If you would like to join our mailing list, please click here Stay and Play Preschool 814-237-1154 stayandplayscpc@gmail.com Church Office Hours:
Monday - Thursday: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm Friday: 9:00 - noon Normal Building Hours: (the building may be closed during summer and vacation times. it's best to call ahead at 814-238-2422)
Monday - Thursday: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm Friday: 8:00 am-Noon Saturday: Closed Sunday: 8:00 am - Noon |