MEET THE TEAM
Dedicated & Certified
DIRECTORS
Janet Dotolo
Director
Hi! I'm Janet Dotolo. I have worked at MDCC since 1992, when I graduated from Lesley University with a Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education. I knew from the time I was in first grade that I wanted to work with children, and was lucky enough to pursue my dream at MDCC. I started here as a toddler teacher, quickly moved into the preschool room, and in 1997 joined the office as a Co-Director. I had my first child in 2010, and we love to spend time with family in New Hampshire and Plymouth. After seeing MDCC evolve, and being part of those steps, I became Director in 2016. Many of my past students have returned to MDCC as assistants and teachers. I have loved mentoring them as adults.
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Amanda Riccardi
Assistant Director
Hi! I started working at MDCC in 2002 as a spring/summer assistant. I fell in love with everything - teaching little ones, working with families, and the family-feel of the staff. MDCC has been a part of my life through so many journeys. In 2005, I took a leave of absence to work for Walt Disney World as part of their College Program, taking business classes at Disney University. I took a second leave in 2008 to teach ESL in Costa Rica as a volunteer with World Endeavors. I have worked in many rooms at MDCC as an assistant, teacher, and lead teacher, before joining the admin team as Assistant Director in 2016. I have a BA in English with a concentration in Education Studies from Salem State College (yup, before it became SSU) and an M.Ed in Early Childhood Education from Gordon College. I live in Salem, NH with my husband, our 3 kiddos (all MDCC grads), and my mom.
INFANT EDUCATORS
Natasha
Head Teacher
Bumblebee Room
Hi, my name is Natasha. I started working at MDCC in September of 2012 as an assistant in preschool
while attending school at Northshore Community College. I was studying animal science when I first
started, but fell in love with the center and decide to take the teacher course. I then continued on to
get my CDA (Child Development Associates). Over the years I have been a teacher in preschool and
infant. Before starting at MDCC, I had experience working with children as a dance teacher assistant
when I was young and a dance teacher. Working with children, helping them learn new things and
watching them grow has always been a passion of mine. The children’s laughter and unconditional love
makes my day, and becoming so close with so many families along the way has been an added perk to
the job!
Bryce
Co-Teacher
Bumblebee Room
My name is Bryce and I started working at MDCC in March 2016. I’m teacher and cpr/first aid certified, and I’ve worked with pre schoolers for 6 years and infants since February 2022. What got me into this field Is that when I coached young kids in soccer in high school I was immediately hit with how rewarding and gratifying it is to help and mentor kids. I went to MDCC as a kid and graduated in 2003 so this center was the perfect place for me!
Dom
Assistant Teacher
Bumblebee Room
Hi! I’m Dom. I started working at MDCC in October 2021 in my junior year of high school. I immediately fell in love with caring for young children and wanted to expand my knowledge about young children’s development. During the fall of my senior year, I decided to take a dual enrollment class in Early Childhood Education at Northshore Community College. I learned so much from my class, and I continue to learn more every day I walk into work. Outside of work, I enjoy playing the bass in the Melrose Symphony Orchestra and performing with the Melrose High School Color Guard.
Amie
Head Teacher
Turtle Room
I'm Amie and I've worked at MDCC since 1991. I graduated high school and wasn't sure what I wanted to do. I always loved children, so I started to work at MDCC while I decided what field to go into. I quickly found out that this was my dream job! Every day I get to do what I love and call it work. I went to NSCC to become infant/toddler lead teacher qualified and preschool teacher qualified.
I had my child in 1994, then my grandchild in 2013, and I am expecting my second grandchild in May 2023.
I can now proudly say that some of MDCC's parents and staff, I took care of as infants!
Lily
Assistant Teacher
Turtle Room
My name is Lily and I work in the Turtle room at MDCC. I am 19 years old and currently in school to become a lead teacher. I’ve only been working here since 2022, but I look forward to many more years!
Alex
Co-Teacher
Turtle Room
Coming soon!
Jackie
Assistant Teacher
Infant/Float
Hi, my name is Jackie! I started working at MDCC in 2014 as the daycare cook until I found my love for working in the classroom in 2021 after the pandemic. I became teacher certified in 2022. I am a mother of two beautiful children who are now 24 and 27 years old. I was lucky enough to be a stay at home mother until my youngest was in high school and I then became a part of the MDCC family. I have been married for 32 years and have two crazy dogs. When I’m not working you can find me with them! The thing I love most about working with children is seeing their smiling faces each and every morning along with the big hugs. Definitely found my place here at MDCC and couldn’t be more thankful.
Madison W.
Assistant Teacher
Turtle Room
My name is Madison and I’ve been working at MDCC since 2021. I love kids and working with them along with the whole MDCC community everyone is so nice and makes it so fun!
TODDLER EDUCATORS
Jessica F.
Head Teacher
Kangaroo Room
My name is Jessica Fitzpatrick and I am one of the teachers in the Kangaroo room. I started working at MDCC in 2004 as a junior in high school and I continued to work at MDCC while getting my Bachelor's degree in psychology at Salem State University. I am close to finishing my Master's degree in early childhood but took a break while I raise my two children (Nora 5 and Gavin 2). I love working with children and feel I learn just as much from them as they do us. I am proud to be part of such a close community at MDCC and look forward to helping teach every child that comes my way!
Seanna
Co-Teacher
Kangaroo Room
Coming soon!
coming soon
Assistant Teacher
Kangaroo Room
Coming soon!
Bill
Head Teacher
Rascal Room
Hi, my name is Bill. I started at MDCC as an aide in 2001 while attending Salem State University. Once I graduated in 2003 with a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, I became a full-time toddler teacher in the Rascal room.
Growing up, I admired my elementary school teachers and wanted to be like them. It’s rewarding to teach and watch the kids in my room learn new skills. I’m honored to have the opportunity to shape so many young lives that pass through MDCC.
Jessica T
Co-Teacher
Rascal Room
Hi my names Jess! I started working at MDCC in August of 2021. I previously worked in a bank for 6 years as a teller and got an Associate's Degree of Applied Science as an Animal Care Specialist in 2019. I then decided I wanted to get Teacher Certified and later become a toddler teacher in the Rascal room. Although the field is new to me I’ve grown up taking care of children as well as being a nanny. The most rewarding part about working at MDCC is being able to help nurture, teach and grow the minds of each child. Every day comes with new obstacles and challenges and I love helping them overcome those difficulties and learning along the way!
Ella
Assistant Teacher
Rascal Room
Hi! I'm Ella and I'm a senior in high school. I've worked at MDCC since 2021, mostly with the toddlers in the Rascal Room. I plan to attend University of Vermont in the fall to study Early Childhood Education.
Carly
Head Teacher
Teddy Bear Room
Hi, I’m Carly Shea.
I have worked at Melrose Daycare Center for over 17 years. It was my afternoon job in high school. In 2001 I took early childhood growth and development and became teacher qualified. Then in 2010 I furthered my education and became lead teacher. I have worked as a teacher in several infant and toddler classrooms, however I’ve been in the Teddy Bear Room for the last 10 year with my Co-Teacher, Brooke!! I’m not afraid to get messy. I think it’s very important for children to learn through art and sensory play. I provide a fun safe environment for children to learn, trust and grow. I married my best friend in 2016 and we have our fur baby, Sully (she gives the best snuggles). When I’m not working I enjoy spending time with family and friends!
Brooke K
Co-Teacher
Teddy Bear Room
Hey all, I’m Brooke Keegan!
I have been working at MDCC since 2016 when I moved back from Florida! I started off in the Kangaroo classroom as their teachers' assistant. I have gained experience in each age group at MDCC but found I really love the toddler age group! In 2017 I took a course at North Shore Community College to start off my early childhood education which made me become teacher certified. In 2018 I furthered my education at North Shore Community College and became lead teacher certified! In 2020 I was given the opportunity to become a Co-Teacher in the Teddy Bear classroom with Carly! What I love most about this field is watching growth and progress in all the children and being a part of that. Another love of mine is being able to help these children feel safe and loved everyday.
Mikayla
Assistant Teacher
Teddy Bear Room
Hi, my name's Mikayla! I worked at MDCC during the summers while I was in high school and then furthered my education at Fitchburg State University, graduating with a Bachelors degree in Special Education Prek-8 with a minor in disability studies. While studying in college I babysat for many families and also tutored. I came back to MDCC in 2021. I am teacher certified to work with infants, toddlers, and preschool ages. I think working with children is one of the most important jobs as well as the most rewarding. When I’m not working I enjoy going to the gym, being with friends and family, and of course my two dogs! MDCC has always been a part of my life, as my aunt worked there and my mother continues to do so, and I am honored to do the same.
PRESCHOOL EDUCATORS
coming soon
Head Teacher
Jellyfish Room
Coming soon!
Krystal
Co-Teacher
Jellyfish Room
Coming soon!
Lourdes (Lulu)
Assistant Teacher
Jellyfish Room
Coming soon!
Alexis
Head Teacher
Stingray Room
When I was 9 years old, my aunt told me that she had a new baby, and as I have watched my young cousin grow, I've marveled at human growth and development ever since. By the 7th grade, I knew I wanted to attend Wheelock college, renowned for its anti-bias education and goal to improve the lives of children and families. I began working at MDCC in 2016-my first year of college. Following 2 years at Wheelock college and 3 years at Boston University, I have earned a BA in Human Development & Psychology as well as a MA in Early Education. In 2020, I took time to travel and pursue my interest in adolescent mental/behavioral health. MDCC's supportive environment drew me back and I became the Head Teacher of our Preschool Stingray classroom in September 2022. If I could sum up my overall goal as a preschool teacher, it would be to support my students in the practice and enjoyment of building skills that enable critical thinking and exploration.
Dylan
Co-Teacher
Preschool
Hello! My name is Dylan and I am 25 years old. It has always been my passion and dedication to work with kids, from when I did the future teacher club of America back in high school to doing internships and field experience at different public schools and at Rivier University. When I graduated high school I worked at different childcare centers and I absolutely fell IN LOVE with working with the kids and creating such a fun , nurturing, learning and especially safe atmosphere for them. I love playing games with the kids to making them smile and making sure they are having the best day ever. I got my associate's in liberal arts and science at Middlesex Community College and I will go for a bachelor's in either psychology to become a child psychologist or finish my degree in early childhood education. I am lead teacher certified for preschool and teacher certified for infant/toddler. I am first aid and CPR certified as well. I grew up in a big family with five siblings, 6 nieces and four nephews. I love nature walks and being outdoors and going to the beach and arcades. I have a bunch of animals and I enjoy playing games and hanging with friends and family.
Brooke B
Assistant Teacher
Stingray Room
Hi, I’m Brooke. I am one of the assistants here at MDCC. I started at MDCC in 2022, and I am currently a student at Melrose High School. When I was about 6 years old, I started helping out with my little cousin when he was born, and I knew from that moment on that I had a passion for being around children. My future plans are to study child development or psychology in college and to be able to work with children.
Jacqui
Assistant Teacher
Stingray Room
Hi my name is Jacqui! I’m 20 years old and I’ve been at MDCC since November of 2022! I graduated from Northeast Metropolitan Regional High school in 2021. I graduated from the Dental Assistant program but later fell in love with Early Childhood education. I’m a teacher assistant in the Preschool Stingray classroom! I have recently worked with toddlers and this is my first year with Preschool!
PRE-K EDUCATORS
JoEllen
Head Teacher
Owl Room
Hi! I started working at MDCC in 2021. I was born and raised in Melrose and it’s the place my husband and I are raising our 2 boys. My entire life has been devoted to working with children. I was a nanny, lifeguard and water safety instructor in high school and college. After graduating from Lesley University, with a Masters in Education, I taught First Grade in Wakefield for 14 years. I stepped away from teaching for 12 years when my sons Henry (12) & Quinn (8) were born. I’m grateful to be, once again, working with children where I can support their growth and nurture their love of learning.
Kim
Co-Teacher
Owl Room
Hello! I am Kimberly Lagadinos. I began my journey here at MDCC in the fall of 2021. I have an A.A. in Early Childhood Ed, B.S. with a focus in education and a M.Ed. Ever since I was in kindergarten, I knew I was destined to become an educator of young children. I possess a strong passion for working with young children and families. When teaching, I consider the "whole child"; meeting their emotional, social, cognitive and physical needs. I believe children learn through play by engaging all of their senses to explore the world around them. I have taken courses relevant to English Language Learners, children with disabilities and children with different socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds. I love animals, being outdoors, hiking, camping and kayaking especially. I am so thrilled to be a part of this amazing team of educators and cohort of families! Thank you for welcoming me to be part of your child’s educational journey.
Rachelle
Co-Teacher
Owl Room
Hi! My name is Rachelle Leger. I’m a Pre-K teacher and I started working at MDCC in December 2021. If anyone asks me, ‘why are you a teacher?’ my answer would be, I just always knew. As early as I can remember, I loved playing the role of the teacher, where my dolls would be the students. As a teenager, I was a youth program leader at my church where I taught children from the ages of two to six years old. I attended Oakwood University in Alabama where I obtained a Bachelor's of Science in Elementary Education. I was teaching second grade for a year at Highland Elementary in Alabama before returning back to Massachusetts where I continued teaching early education as a preschool and Pre-K teacher. As a person with a different cultural background, I understand that children learn at their own pace and have their own diverse learning styles. As an educator it is my job to adapt to the varieties of learning styles and teach all of my students patience, acceptance and compassion for themselves and for others. When I am not teaching, I spend all my time with my family and my three-year-old daughter who, ironically enough, attends MDCC as a preschooler. I love teaching and I wear it with a smile every day.
Ali L.
Assistant Teacher
Owl Room
Hi! My name is Ali. I am currently finishing my degree in special education at Liberty University. I have always known that I wanted to work with children to foster their enthusiasm for learning. I believe that all children are unique, and I enjoy implementing new and creative ways to target the individual learning styles of each student. I began working at Melrose Day Care and Preschool in September 2022. Children express such wonderment in the people, places, and things around them and to be a part of their school experience has been exciting, rewarding, and the fulfillment of a life goal!
FLOAT EDUCATORS
Abby
Assistant Teacher
Seasonal
Hi all, my name is Abby! I've been with MDCC seasonally since 2021, first as an assistant and now as a floating teacher. I'm currently a college undergraduate student pursuing degrees in both Early Childhood Education and Human Services. As a passionate educator, I strive to create a safe and welcoming learning environment that promotes growth and learning in a multitude of ways! It's important to me that I provide the tools to work with children in meeting goals in their developmental areas in order for them to thrive daily!
Courtney P.
Assistant Teacher
Float
Hi! My name is Courtney! I am 18 years old and a senior in high school! I absolutely love kids and plan to work with them all through and after college!
Grace G.
Assistant Teacher
Float
Coming soon!
Madison G.
Assistant Teacher
Float
Hi! My name is Madison. I was born and raised in Melrose. I started working at MDCC in the fall as an assistant teacher/floater. I had also worked as an assistant when I was in high school in 2017. I went to MDCC as a child and I'm so happy that I was able to return to work! During the day I work as a paraprofessional at an elementary school in Melrose as well. Along with working, I am in school for medical sonography. Before that, I was in school for education. I've always have had a passion for working with children and helping others, and I love being able to work with all the children at MDCC!
Albert
Assistant Teacher
Float
My name is Albert. I have been working at MDCC since October 2022. I'm pursuing a degree in early childhood education. I have been working in this field for about 4 years now. There is never a dull day working with children. The children at MDCC are rockstars and it is a pleasure working with them.
Courtney S.
Assistant Teacher
Float
Hi! I’m Courtney, I’m 17 years old, and a junior in high school. I started working at MDCC in 2022. I always have loved working with kids and it started by assisting kids at dance!
Jessie Rose
Assistant Teacher
Float
Coming soon!
MaryEllen
Assistant Teacher
Rascal/Float
Coming soon!
Assistant Teacher
Float
Amanda A.
I’m so exited to be begin teaching here at Melrose Daycare Center and Preschool. My name is Amanda, I am 30 years old and have been teaching for the past 6 years. I’m a certified EEC teacher, and took my classes through North Shore Community College. Prior to that a was a private nanny for 3 years. I live in Saugus with my eight-year-old son named Anthony. We also have a black lab puppy named Laila, and a kitten named Litten.
In my free time I enjoy spending time with my son, going on hikes, doing yoga, exploring new parks, and being with my family and friends. I love teaching and all the exploring, learning, and fun we get to have.
Gabriella
Assistant Teacher
Float
Hi! My name is Gabriella, I am a senior at Melrose High School. Next year I will be studying nursing in college. For activities, I played field hockey and I did indoor track throughout high school. I love to hangout with my friends and family. I also love the summer and going to the beach.
Josephine
Assistant Teacher
Float
Hi, I’m Josephine Jancsy, I started working at MDCC in 2011. I went to Bunker Hill Community College in 1986 and studied Early Childhood Education. I have worked with infants , toddlers and preschool children for many years in a daycare setting. I had my first child in 1993, and started a home daycare while my children were young. I started working at MDCC, when my youngest son started first grade, he is now 18! I have been married for 31 years, and have three children, two sons and a daughter, two dogs and a parakeet! My three children are everything to me, they are my greatest accomplishment in life. I love working with children, and it has been so very rewarding to me. I love watching children grow and develop into confident, self-sufficient learners. I love the smiles and laughs that come from the kids, they give me so much love and make my day brighter each day! MDCC has become like a second family to me, and the teachers I have worked with are the best of the best, they are the most caring, loving, dedicated, hard working people I have ever worked with.
Mia
Assistant Teacher
Float
Hi my name is Mia! I am 16 years old and a junior at Melrose High School. I love to play soccer, run, and bake. I went to MDCC when I was a little kid and I loved it. I started working around December of 2022 and nothing has changed - I still love it! I’ve always loved working with kids and I can’t wait to continue it.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Role of the Board
The center is governed by a Board of Directors that is responsible for:
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Evaluating program effectiveness
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Networking with the community
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Raising funds
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Setting company policies
The Board has annual elections in June at which time the current Board is either reinstated or new board members are added. Parents serve on the board, as well as community and church members. If you are interested in serving on the Board, please contact a Director.
Board Members
Maureen Kernan, President
Denise Gaffey, Vice President
Janet Runge, Clerk
Maia Moran, Secretary
Joan Cassidy, Treasurer
Amanda Humphrey
Barbara Sinisgalli
Edna Mayer
Ingrid Parnell
Kara Raymond
Paul DeCelle
Daniel Buckwell