Staff information:

Don Penland: Owner/Director, 17 years of child care experience, hands on owner, counseling background, family has owned and operated a child care facility for 35 years, encourages positive interaction, engaging children with interesting activities, encourages communication between parent and teachers. Cultural diversity gives children a distinct advantage and exposure at early age encourages learning and acceptance of people with cultural differences.

Teresa Harris: Infant room, our most experienced teacher. She is a North Carolina native, with over 10 years of experience in child care. Throughout our center, it is common to hear Mrs. Teresa singing to her children. Mrs. Teresa has earned her NC Teaching Credentials, and has plans to continue her education.

Patricia Poteat: One year old room, our newest staff member. Patricia grew up in Taylorsville, NC. She will be finished with her Early Childhood Degree in December, 2010. Footsteps is Mrs. Patricia's first step in a daycare. She has turned her students into budding artists, as you can see by the artwork that hangs throughout her classroom.

Soua Thor: Two year old room, 15 years of child care experience mainly within the school system, proud mother of 6 and has been with Footsteps for a year and a half. She works well with the younger group because of her nurturing, loving disposition. Ms. Soua speaks fluent Hmong and has an Associates degree in Early Childhood Education and N.C. Child Care Credentials.

Melanie Melott: Three/Four year old room, brings 7 years of child care experience. Ms. Melanie speaks fluent German, has a German Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education and her N.C. Child Care Credentials. Ms. Melanie has been with Footsteps 1.5 years. At Footsteps you will always find Ms. Melanie engaged with the children working on a project. Her artwork is displayed through out the center.

Jeanie Minor: Support Staff