Our Staff
Carissa Leger
Director
My name is Miss Carissa and I am the Director of Growing Room Berlin. I am Infant/ Toddler/ Pre Teacher certified, Inf/ Todd/ Pre Lead Teacher certified, and Director certified. I take training throughout the year to broaden my knowledge on various aspects in the field. One of my favorite things about teaching has always been seeing their faces light up once they have achieved something new. Knowing that I have been a part of that achievement is so rewarding. I enjoy all aspects of crafting! I have three cats named Cali, Lily, and Misty. My favorite color is purple which is completely coincidental. My favorite animal has to be a dog, yes I know it is so cliche but their faces are just too sweet and their little puppy smiles are the best! I have been married to my husband, Ryan since 2010. We have three boys together- Chase, Trevor and Spencer who have all attended Growing Room over the years. I have had the pleasure of working here at Growing Room since we opened our doors in 2014. I started out as the Infant teacher and took on many other positions over the years that put me in the role I am in today as the Director. It has been a journey and watching this school grow over the years has been amazing. When I walked in the doors back in 2013- I knew this was my “home” and where I was meant to be and I still feel that today!
Jessica Braga
Director
I am one of the Directors at Growing Room Berlin. I started working in the early childhood education field in 2002, beginning as an infant-toddler teacher. I am Director II certified– I’ve taken too many classes in the field to list! My favorite thing about child care is seeing the light in a child’s eyes when they grasp a new skill, and when you walk into the room, they make you feel like a celebrity! I love helping people, children and adults. If I can teach someone something new, I enjoy it. I love to read, shop, and spend time with my family. My favorite color is pink, my favorite animal is a pig, and going anywhere on vacation is amazing.
Haley Chumsae
Manager
My name is Haley Chumsae and I am one of the managers at Growing Room Berlin. I started working in early childhood education in 2020. I am teacher certified through EEC and have taken multiple courses within the field including child growth and development, infant/ toddler curriculum, and supervision and mentoring of early childhood professionals. I am looking to continue my education and take more courses in the field to receive my lead teacher certification, and eventually Director I and II. I love watching the children grow and learn! I love encouraging children’s independence and seeing them succeed with their goals. In my spare time, my husband and I like to take our dog, Lennox, on walks. I also like to read and take care of my plants.
Lori LaPerle
Chef
My name is Lori and I am the Chef at Growing Room. I was born and raised in Sterling, MA. I am a graduate of Wachusett Regional High School. After high school, I graduated from the Learning Institute of Beauty Sciences. I spent many years as a hairdresser and beauty retail manager.
I realized my love for cooking in 2015 and went on to be the chef and manager of a local Veterans hall for 5 years. I found my home in The Growing Room kitchen in 2022 and love creating meals and serving them to my biggest fans.
Samantha Borgomastro
Infant Teacher
Hi, my name is Samantha! I’ve been working in the childcare field for 15+ years, and my “why” has always been the joy of watching children grow and develop throughout the years. I love being able to make a difference in any way possible. My favorite part of the day is circle time, when I get to connect with the children and watch their curiosity shine. Outside of work, I enjoy yoga, reading, and baking. I’m energetic and passionate about helping children learn, and I love bringing my experiences as a mom into the classroom. I also enjoy spending time outdoors every chance I get.
Cassie DePaolo
Infant Teacher
My name is Miss Cassie. I started working in childcare in 2004 and am teacher certified through EEC in infants, toddlers, and preschool. My favorite part about teaching is creating bonds with the children. I have five children, one son and four daughters, and two granddaughters. We all enjoy spending family time together, making sunday dinner, and making each other laugh! Some of my hobbies include hanging out with my daughters– we love to drive around and sing together as well as going shopping. I also have two cats, Luna and Bubba Gump.
Lana Soto
Infant Teacher
I started working in early childhood education in 2024. My favorite part about teaching is connecting with the families. I love being an infant teacher! Throughout my childhood, my mom was also an infant caregiver and I am happy to have followed in her footsteps. My hobbies include crocheting, knitting, and playing instruments. I have three siblings, two parents, and two step parents. Because most of my family is spread throughout Massachusetts, we don’t see each other often, but when we do we have a great time together!
Sophia Cashmore
Toddler Teacher
I joined the Growing Room team in August 2024 and became teacher certified through EEC in December the same year. My favorite thing about child care is watching the children grow and develop. In my time away from teaching, I love to read, especially within the fiction genre, and I also enjoy making arts and crafts. In my spare time I like to hang out with my family and friends and try new restaurants. I love animals! My favorite animal right now is a panda because they are just too cute! I have seven pets including three cats, two dogs, and two lizards. I have lived in New York, Vermont and now Massachusetts for the past 11 years. I have an older sister and a huge extended family with lots of new members added each year.
Madison Chase
Toddler Teacher
I started working in the early childhood education field in 2018 and joined the Growing Room team in 2021. I received my teacher certification through EEC in 2023. A few of my favorite aspects of teaching would be being able to experience every day with the children and creating a safe environment where they can thrive. Whether it’s helping regulate emotions, mediating a disagreement between children, or helping them with problem solving skills, it’s all a part of teaching. It motivates me to get up every day to see life from their perspective and helps nurture that childlike wonder inside me. Pursuing a career in education and working at Growing Room has helped me learn so much about myself as a person and creating a strong foundation for learning more about children. I feel deeply passionate as they are the future of the world! In my spare time I like to play video games such as Overwatch and League Of Legends, and I also enjoy coloring and drawing!
Taylor Fraser
Toddler Teacher
My name is Miss Taylor, and I absolutely love working with children. Being part of their growth and development is so special to me. There’s nothing better than watching a child learn something new, gain confidence, and feel proud of themselves! Childcare has always been part of my life. My mom was a daycare director when I was growing up, so I spent a lot of time around classrooms and little learners. I officially started working in childcare when I was 15, and I’ve loved being part of this field ever since. In the classroom, my favorite parts of the day are circle time and craft time. I love seeing children participate, share their ideas, creativity, and having fun learning together. The smiles, laughter, and “look what I made!” moments are the best! Outside of the classroom, I enjoy reading fantasy books, drawing, painting, and coloring. I also love spending time with my nieces and nephews whenever I can. I’m someone who loves to have fun and be a little silly, while also making sure every child feels cared for, supported, and included. Helping children grow, learn, and feel happy each day is what makes this job so meaningful to me!
Liana Melecio
Toddler Teacher
My name is Miss Liana and I started working in early childhood education in 2020. Eventually I would like to end up in the medical field, doing something in pediatrics. My favorite part about teaching is getting to watch all the milestones the children hit as well as forming bonds with the families. Some other things about me are that I love the color green and making art.
Emily Robinson
Toddler Teacher
My name is Miss Emily and I have been in the early childhood education field since 2020. I have successfully completed Child Growth and Development with Fisher college and am teacher certified through EEC! My favorite thing about teaching is making a positive impact on the children’s lives. My favorite game to play is Fortnite, I love the colors blue and pink, and I enjoy going to music festivals and coloring.
Kaeli Smith
Toddler Teacher
I started working in the early childhood education field in 2022. I received my teacher certification through EEC in 2024, and I look forward to taking more classes in early childhood education to receive my masters. My favorite thing about teaching is connecting with the children and getting to watch them discover the world around them. Some fun facts about me are that I can speak Mandarin Chinese, I studied abroad in China for three months, and I have a cat named Milo!
Craig Vinton
Toddler Teacher
I started working in early childhood education in 2022 and am teacher certified through EEC. My favorite thing about teaching is making a difference in the children’s lives. My kind hearted nature and patience are strong values to me as a teacher, and I am always willing to learn new ways to help young minds grow. I really thrive doing creative things such as writing, painting, and playing or making music. My hope is to share a lot of this with my child so she will always have fun and enriching experiences with the arts. My daughter Sylvia loves music and people watching. My wife Mary and I love taking her to different museums and fun events where live music is happening!
Jamie Sherman
Pre-K Teacher
My name is Miss Jamie and I started working in early childhood education in 2017. I became teacher certified in high school through EEC. I am currently in school to become a veterinary assistant! My favorite thing about teaching is that I get to love and cherish each small person that comes into my care. Some other interesting things to know about me are that I have four cats, I love animals and the beach, my favorite color is purple, and I like to read!
Sarah Bowen
Preschool Teacher
Hi! My name is Sarah B. I’ve been working in the childcare field since 2019. I am teacher certified through EEC in Infants, Toddlers and Preschool. My “why” comes from the incredible teachers I had growing up—I always looked up to them, and they made a big impact on my life. They inspired me, taught me so much, and now I love getting to be a part of children’s learning journeys. I truly enjoy interacting with children and watching them grow.
My favorite part of the day is when my students are all engaged in creative activities. Seeing their imaginations come alive is something I look forward to every day.
Outside of work, I love hiking, camping, stargazing, and painting outdoors. I’m a familyoriented person who enjoys spending quality time with loved ones, watching movies, and hosting family events. Sometimes I can be shy, but I’m joyful, and my peaceful nature shines through in my interactions with others.
Allison Flaherty
Preschool Teacher
My name is Miss Allison. I started working in child care in 2016 and am teacher certified through EEC. I am looking to continue my education within the field to eventually be director certified. My favorite thing about teaching is watching all the children grow and learn. I love forming special bonds with each and every child! In my free time, I love hanging out with my fiance, friends, and family. I also love shopping!
Sarah Flaherty
Preschool Teacher
I started working in early childhood education in 2019. I am certified through EEC and have taken various courses in early childhood education including child abuse and neglect, a caregivers guide to adverse childhood experiences, preschoolers in childcare, nurturing children’s self esteem, and child development and guidance. My favorite part about teaching is witnessing the moment when a student truly grasps a concept. It’s incredibly rewarding to see their confidence grow as they connect the dots and realize their potential. I have two mini poodles, Casper and Calvin, who are like my babies! In my free time, I love drawing and shopping, and my favorite colors are green and black.
Greg Nikitas
Preschool Teacher
My name is Greg. I’ve been working in childcare since about 2022, and I love seeing how children learn and grow throughout the year. My favorite part of the day is morning circle time—it’s such a fun way to connect with the kids and start the day together.
Outside of work, I enjoy playing guitar, singing, listening to music, and spending time with my three dogs. I’m a big fan of food and dad jokes, and I always try to bring laughter and positive energy into the classroom. My co-teacher has become my best friend, and we share plenty of laughs together!
Priti Swapna Verma
Preschool Teacher
Hi! My name is Priti. As a mom of two, I’ve found that working with children is something I truly enjoy. I’ve been in the childcare field since October of 2024, and it has been such a rewarding experience. My favorite part of the day is morning circle time—I love hearing the children share their stories and ideas as we start the day together.
Outside of work, I enjoy cooking and dancing. I’m very passionate about what I do and love spending time with my family. I also enjoy teaching my favorite subjects, math and science, to my kids at home!
Taylor Wood
Preschool Teacher
Hi! My name is Taylor Wood. I love kids and watching them grow—it’s so rewarding to see that special “ah-ha” moment when a child fully grasps a new concept. I’ve been working with children since I was 13 and professionally since 2017. My favorite part of the day is art time because I love seeing how each child interprets the activity in their own unique way.
Outside of work, I enjoy reading, cooking, and spending time at the beach. I graduated with my master’s degree in childhood Literacy in 2019, and I’ve always dreamed of being a teacher—when I was little, I even asked Santa for school supplies! My favorite colors are pink and purple.
Baylee McDaniel
Support Staff
I’m Baylee, and I’m excited to begin my journey in the childcare field! I recently moved to Massachusetts from Tennessee, and I’m looking forward to this new experience and the opportunity to learn and grow alongside the children. I’m a huge animal lover and have two cats of my own, and outside of work I enjoy photography, taking walks, and traveling. I love trying new things, exploring different cultures, and making new memories along the way. I’m so excited to be part of the center community and can’t wait to get to know all of our little learners!
Savannah Burgess
Support Staff
My name is Savannah, and I’m so excited to be part of the classroom. I love helping children learn and grow, and it means a lot to me to be able to make a positive difference in their day while supporting them as they discover new skills. While this is my first official childcare role, I’ve spent lots of time babysitting my younger cousins and helping my aunt at her daycare, which showed me how much I enjoy being around children.
My favorite part of the day is spending time talking with the children, hearing their ideas and stories, and of course getting lots of hugs. Outside of work, I enjoy painting, crafting, and going on walks, especially during the fall and summer.
I’m a big family person and love going to my cousins’ events and spending time together whenever I can. I also enjoy relaxing at my craft desk while watching a good show or listening to music and making art for family and friends. In the summer, I love going on little adventures with my cousin—pool days, park days, Target trips, bike trail walks, and sometimes even getting our nails done!
Miranda Cary
Support Staff
My name is Miranda, and I’m passionate about working with children and learning about child growth and psychology. Since 2021 I have gained experience through babysitting and volunteer work, and I love being part of children’s learning and development. My favorite part of the day is free play because it’s when children’s personalities shine and I get to watch them explore, create, and grow.
Outside of work, I enjoy exercising, traveling, reading, and crocheting. I’m currently a fourthyear college student at Saint Anselm in New Hampshire, where I continue to build my knowledge of child development and psychology. I love trying new things, continuing to learn, and using what I learn to help children feel supported, confident, and successful every day.
Cathy Chase-Lussier
Support Staff
I started working in childhood education in 2021. My favorite thing about teaching is watching the children grow as well as the achievements and accomplishments each of them make. When I’m not at work I like to read, go to the beach, and spend time with my family. My favorite colors are blue and pink and I enjoy vacationing in Maine or anywhere tropical! I also have a golden retriever whose name is Tucker.
Brooke Eckelman
Support Staff
My name is Brooke, and I love having the opportunity to make a positive impact on young children’s lives while helping them learn and grow. I’ve been working in childcare since 2022, and my experiences have continued to strengthen my passion for early childhood education and supporting children as they build confidence and discover the world around them.
One of my favorite parts of the day is dramatic play and free play because I enjoy watching children use their imaginations, express themselves, and develop their own unique personalities. Outside of work, I enjoy staying active through yoga, Pilates, and going on walks.
I recently graduated from Tahanto and will be starting at UMass this fall. During high school, I completed a child development program that gave me hands-on classroom experience in a preschool setting each day. That experience helped my passion for working with children grow, and I’m excited to continue learning while being part of the Growing Room community this summer!
Naiyali Fernanez
Support Teacher
Hi! I’m Naiyali, and I love working with children because I enjoy teaching, building connections, and making a positive impact in their lives. I’ve been working in childcare since 2024, and I love creating meaningful experiences that help children learn, grow, and feel supported each day.
Some of my favorite parts of the classroom day are arts and crafts and outdoor activities because they give children opportunities to be creative, explore, and have fun while learning. Outside of work, I enjoy going to church, spending time with family, and listening to music.
A little more about me—I love music and singing, and I enjoy serving and taking on leadership opportunities in my community. I’m an open and honest person who values helping others and building positive relationships. Most of all, I love spending quality time with family and friends and bringing that same sense of care and connection into the classroom each day.
Emma Fiore
Support Staff
My name is Emma, and I’ve been working in childcare since 2021. I love being able to watch children grow, learn, and develop into their own unique little people each day. One of my favorite parts of the day is spending time outside with the kiddos, making memories through play and exploration.
Outside of work, I enjoy crafting and playing volleyball. I also babysit, coach, and substitute teach, so working with children has always been a big part of my life. I’m currently a junior at UConn studying Elementary Education, and I’m excited to continue growing in the field while creating a fun, caring, and supportive environment for every child in my classroom!
Helena Gillin
Support Staff
Hi! I’m Helena, and I’m so excited to be part of the Growing Room family! I’m originally from Clinton and am currently a rising junior at Providence College, where I’m studying Secondary Education and History with a minor in Dance. I have always loved working with children, and after spending the past year as a substitute teacher, I’m thrilled to continue helping little learners grow, explore, and build confidence each day.
My favorite part of the classroom is dramatic play because I love watching children’s imaginations come to life as they create, pretend, and work together. Outside of work, you’ll usually find me dancing, reading, listening to music, or spending time with my family and friends.
I believe every child deserves to feel loved, encouraged, and celebrated. I look forward to building meaningful relationships with each child and family while making learning fun, exciting, and full of smiles!
Lindsayruth Hemingway
Support Staff
My name is Lindsayruth, and I’m so excited to be part of the team. I’ve been working with children since my freshman year of high school and started babysitting in 2016. I love helping children learn new things, grow their imaginations, and most importantly making sure they’re having fun while they do it.
One of my favorite parts of the day is simply spending time with the children—talking, playing, and seeing the world through their eyes. Watching them learn and explore is what makes working in childcare so special to me.
Outside of work, I enjoy baking with my mom, doing nails for myself and others, and cheerleading. I’m currently a junior in high school and very passionate about my future. I love spending time with my family and friends and always try to do my best both at school and at work. I’m so happy to be part of a place where I can help make each child’s day fun and meaningful!
Jordyn Hipson
Support Staff
My name is Jordyn, and I have been working in childcare for almost six years, and I absolutely love being a part of something bigger—helping children grow, learn, and discover new things every day! My favorite part of the day is doing fun art projects with my class and watching their creativity shine.
When I’m not in the classroom, I enjoy reading and spending time with my sweet dog, Murphy. I always try to see the positive in every situation and bring that same cheerful attitude to my classroom. I am also working hard in school to become an elementary teacher, with dreams of teaching first grade one day!
Jillian Lavallee
Support Staff
Hi, I’m Jill Lavallee, and I’ve been working in childcare since 2017. I first discovered my love for teaching while I was in high school, when I had the opportunity to work in preschool classrooms. Since then, I’ve loved watching children learn new skills, overcome challenges, and experience that proud little smile when they finally figure something out!
One of my favorite parts of the day is art time, because I love seeing each child’s creativity shine in their own unique way. I also love outdoor play, where there is always fun to be had and new games to create!
Outside of the classroom, I enjoy spending time with my two-year-old golden retriever, especially taking her to Rutland State Park to swim, paddleboard, or fish with my boyfriend. I have a fun and bubbly personality, I have a serious sweet tooth, and I’m always up for a treat—especially if it has sprinkles! My dog and my two cats are my whole world.
I feel so lucky to be part of children’s lives and to help them grow, learn, and feel proud of themselves every day!
Kristen Maggioni
Support Staff
My name is Miss Kristen! I started working in childcare in 2023. I enjoy connecting with each child, learning about their personalities, building relationships, and overall helping them grow. In my time away from Growing Room, I like to bake and cook. I have a Shih Tzu named Sparky, my favorite colors are pink and blue, and I love elephants!
Anne McNamara
Support Staff
My name is Miss Anne, I have worked in early childhood education since 2022. My favorite thing about teaching is watching the children grow. I enjoy spending my time on the golf course and won the Cyprian Keyes Club championship in 2003. I enjoy vacationing in Las Vegas or Disney World– my favorite Disney characters are Chip and Dale!
Jess Mayson
Support Staff
I’m Jess, and I’m passionate about creating a safe, fun, and engaging learning environment where children can feel confident being themselves and letting their imaginations run wild! I first started working with children by babysitting in my neighborhood in 2015, and I’ve loved every step of my journey since then. My favorite classroom activities are reading and art, and outside of work I enjoy baking and rollerblading. I’m very empathetic, always ready with a smile, and love helping children learn, grow, and discover new things each day. I’m always open to new ideas and look forward to helping each child grow in every aspect of life!
Niamh Moore
Support Staff
I’m Niamh, and I’ve been caring for children since I was 12 years old, starting with babysitting and later gaining experience in after-school programs, summer camps, and daycares. I love being part of children’s development and find it incredibly rewarding to support them as they learn, grow, and discover the world around them. One of my favorite parts of the day is welcoming children after drop-off and seeing their excitement as they get ready for all the fun activities ahead! Outside of work, I love traveling with friends, exploring new places, painting rocks from my adventures, and spending time painting and writing. As someone who comes from a big family with three brothers and two sisters, I’ve always enjoyed being surrounded by people and creating fun, meaningful memories!
Logan Nelson
Support Staff
I’m Logan, and this is my first year working in childcare! I’m excited to be in a field where I can learn, grow, and make a positive impact on children each day. I’m very outgoing, love making people laugh with my jokes, and always try to be attentive to the needs of the children in my care. My favorite part of the day is circle time, and when I’m not at work, you can usually find me fishing or traveling internationally. I hope to one day become a mother, so working with children is especially meaningful to me!
Aimee Philbrick
Support Staff
I joined the childcare field in 2026 because I love helping children learn, grow, and celebrate all of the exciting milestones they reach each day. One of my favorite parts of the day is sitting with the children to talk, play, and watch their faces light up when they accomplish something new. Seeing their confidence grow is the most rewarding part of my job.
When I’m not at work, you’ll usually find me camping, snowboarding, spending time at the beach, or shopping for a new pair of shoes. My favorite color is light pink, and I’m also a proud mom to my 3-year-old son, Carter, who can tell you just about everything there is to know about dinosaurs! I’m excited to be part of your child’s learning journey and look forward to making each day full of fun, laughter, and new discoveries.
Ella Snyder
Support Staff
My name is Ella and I am currently a sophomore at Worcester State University, where I am majoring in Elementary Education and minoring in Psychology. I have been working with children since 2021, including babysitting, and I am passionate about helping every child receive the attention, care, and support they deserve.
My favorite part of the day is art time because it gives children the opportunity to be creative, express themselves, and have fun while learning. Outside of work, I enjoy playing softball, drawing, and working out. I also play on Worcester State’s softball team and love being part of the game.
I am excited to be part of your child’s learning journey and look forward to building positive relationships with the children and families in our program!
Wesley Spiliakos
Support Staff
Hi! I’m Wes, and I’m so happy to be part of the Growing Room family! I have always enjoyed working with children and helping them learn, grow, and become the best versions of themselves. This is my first year officially working in childcare, but I’ve been babysitting for the past five years and have loved every minute of it.
I’m currently a rising senior in high school, and after graduation I hope to attend college to become a pediatric nurse. My favorite part of the day is watching children discover new things, build confidence, and celebrate their accomplishments. Seeing their excitement as they learn something new always brings a smile to my face.
When I’m not at work, I enjoy figure skating, reading, going on walks with my chocolate Labrador, and spending time with my family. I’m excited to get to know each child and family and look forward to creating a fun, caring, and encouraging environment where every child can thrive!
Kiley Ward
Support Staff
I started working in early childhood education in 2024. My favorite thing about teaching is seeing the children happy and watching them grow and accomplish new things every day. I have made the Principal’s List and Honor Roll every semester throughout my high school career so far! I am hoping to go to college out of state, ideally in California or South Carolina. I have a chocolate lab named Finn and my favorite place to travel is California, Sag Harbor, and Lisbon. I am the youngest of three and have grown up in Massachusetts my whole life. Throughout my life so far, I’ve had six dogs, all of them being labrador retrievers, and all but one has been rescued