Our Staff
Hilltop ELC employs a team of dedicated early childhood educators who aspire to encourage and support the children in their care. Hilltop is unique in that our non-profit Board of Directors is determined to provide the best possible environment, not only for the children, but also for the staff. We are proud of this philosophy, which has resulted in very little staff turnover and a consistent base of superb childcare professionals.
Ms. Jessica, Director & Lead Preschool Teacher
Jessica has been a part of the team of educators at Hilltop for more than 15 years and has worked across many facets of the early education field for 20+ years. Jessica cherishes her time as a classroom teacher, creating exciting new challenges for students, providing a nurturing environment, and watching the students grow with each day. As Director, her continued hands-on work in the classroom allows her unique insight to ensure that the overall program maintains the integrity and devotion to providing the highest levels of care. She has an Associates of Arts degree in Education and a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology with a concentration in Child Development from UMBC. Jessica has also earned and maintains the highest staff credential from the Maryland State Department of Education.
Jessica lives in Sykesville with her husband and two children, and their dogs, Mocha and Callie.
Ms. Cortney, Assistant Director & Lead Pre-Kindergarten Teacher
Cortney is originally from Central Texas. She has worked in the education field for more than nine years. Cortney worked as a preschool English teacher in Sasebo, Japan while she and her husband were stationed there with the Navy. Cortney enjoys getting to know each child and their family. She quickly discovers activities and interests of the children to create an exciting learning environment! She works hard to design a classroom that helps children develop confidence and independence as they prepare for the transition to kindergarten. Cortney has her Associates of Applied Science in Early Childhood Development from Howard Community College and a Bachelors of Arts in History and Political Science from Abilene Christian University. She has also earned and maintains the highest staff credential from the Maryland State Department of Education.
Cortney lives in Washington, D.C. with her husband and their dog, Clementine.
Ms. Lori, Assistant Teacher
Lori has been part of the team at Hilltop for more than 15 years. She has worked in the education field for 20+ years with children from preschool to school age. Lori brings energy and excitement to the classroom. She is especially skilled in working with children that may be a little shy as they enter school for the first time. She is Senior Staff Qualified, Group Leader Qualified and is credentialed through the Maryland State Department of Education. She continues to take annual training courses in early childhood development.
Ms. Sammi, Assistant Teacher
Sammi is excited to get to know you and your child! She has brought valuable experience to our Hilltop team from her time as a Pre-K Assistant teacher and a nanny. Sammi has a Bachelors of Science from Toccoa Falls College and continues to pursue professional development training through MSDE. Sammi has a welcoming smile for every friend! She enjoys musical experiences and working in small groups to really get to know each child.
