Deb Austic

Deb became involved at TCNS in 1998 as a parent and board member when her children attended TCNS. She began working as a teacher in 2002 and has been director since 2007. Before working at TCNS, Deb worked for 7 years as a family childcare provider. Deb has a BA in Anthropology and Masters level coursework from Syracuse University School of Social Work. She has been actively involved in a number of youth-oriented organizations in the community. Deb is an alumni of TCNS herself and loves being able to spend her days with preschool kids!

Sarah Brainard

Sarah has a degree in Elementary Education along with studies completed in Early Childhood at a Masters level.  Her past work experience includes positions as an assistant manager of a child care center, a preschool teacher and as well as an Education Coordinator.  Since 2007 she has worked at TCNS as a parent helper, substitute and served on the board. Sarah is a member of the National Association for the Education of the Young Child and the Christian Education Coordinator at the Jacksonville Community United Methodist Church.  Sarah values the parent cooperative aspect and enjoys working with the families and children at TCNS.

Research has shown that the biggest factor for school success is parent involvement. TCNS parents have been nurtured and taught how to help their children succeed in school as they proceed on their educational journey.

Jackie Puleo

Jackie’s educational background is in Early Childhood Education and Elementary Education. She has an Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education and coursework from Trenton State College in Elementary Education. She has taught as a preschool teacher in California and New Jersey and has worked for years as a childcare provider for many families.  Jackie has been an active community volunteer in the many school and extra-curricular activities of her children.  She believes “our greatest natural resource is the minds of our children.” (Walter Elias Disney)

RACHAEL CHAFFEE

Rachael has a degree in childhood education with a masters in non profit management. With over ten years of teaching experience, both internationally, as well as in  Florida and Georgia, working with children is definitely Rachael’s passion. She has experience in both play based, and Montessori preschools. Rachael’s son Oliver will be attending TCNS this year, and both are very excited to be a part of the TCNS community!