Childcare Directors
Jackie Ng
Director of Child Care
Jackie has over 20 years of experience in early childhood education. After moving to Montana from West Virginia in 2002, her first experience teaching young children was with Big Sky Preschool. She then went on to earn a master's degree in early childhood education. Over the years, Jackie has developed various programs to foster early childhood development . These programs were all rooted in her belief that learning environments need to focus on the individual needs of children, with an emphasis on warm, loving environments. She has created diverse multilingual educational programs, movement-based curriculums, and support centers for families facing poverty and homelessness. Her dedication to creating diverse, inclusive programs shows her commitment to fostering strong foundations for early childhood development.
Outside of work, Jackie enjoys live music and adventuring the vast Montana outdoors with her two littles.
Leighann Minter
Assistant Director of Child Care
Leighann, also known as “Ms. Lulu,” has been working in child care in the Greater Gallatin Valley for 18 years, 16 of which were spent running her own daycare and preschool on her family farm. She has a deep passion for working with children and views them as key to understanding what is right in the world. Leighann’s connection to the Gallatin Valley runs deep, having lived here for 31 years. Her experience as an educator is paired with a genuine love for learning alongside children, which keeps her grounded and joyful.
When not working Lulu enjoys spending time outdoors with her three children, Madison, Jaik, and Lillian and her amazing husband Ryan. She also spends a lot of time with her two very large Newfoundland dogs, Rufus, and Blueberry.
Staff
Ms. Zoe
Hi I’m Zoe! Currently a sophomore at Montana State studying early childhood education and will soon finish my last two years at San Diego State University to get my bachelor of science in childhood development. I’m so beyond excited when I’m able to help out with these kids between the chaos of school, nannying, and babysitting.
With the little free time that I have I’m normally volunteering at the cancer center or laying out enjoying the sun!!
Ms. Nicole
My name is Nicole Martin. I have been a Preschool teacher for 20+ years. Children hold a special place in my heart. I am blessed to be able to do a job I love so much! A little about myself. I am originally from Northern California. I lived in Gilbert Arizona for 15 years and have lived in Belgrade Montana for almost 6 years.
I have 4 amazing children and 2 grandchildren. Some of my hobbies are spending time outdoors swimming, hiking, camping, and xc skiing. I also love going to the movies, seeing live music, reading and cooking.
Ms. Sheila
My name is Sheila M. Perez, i am originally from Puerto Rico. I moved to Montana in 2020 right in the middle of the Covid outbreak with my husband and mom, we wanted a change of scenery and opportunities so we got here. Last year I got the opportunity to be a mom of a beautiful girl, I never thought I would be able to have a baby due to some genetic issues but thank God for that blessing.
On my free time I love to spend time with my family, friends, traveling and creating new adventures.