Name: Jane Zelinsky (Ms. Jane)
Position: 3 Day Pre-Kindergarten AM & PM Lead Teacher. & 2 Day Preschool AM & PM Lead Teacher
Bio: Hello my name is Jane Zelinsky. I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Education from California University. I have worked in child care for more than 25 years. I was a director at Kinder Care for 15 years, Pre School Teacher here at the YMCA since 2009. Some of the departments that I have worked in are Infants, Toddler, Year Round Day Care rooms, and Pre-School. I love working with children they make me laugh with their little stories. I was married to my late husband Joe for 38 years. I have two children Chad and Clayton and two grandchildren Lita and Steven who I am raising. They are the loves of my life and they keep me young! I have one dog, Crystal. The kids best friend. My hobbies are reading, gardening, and a taxi for Lita and Bubby (Steven).
Name: Kylie Kritikos (Ms. Kylie)
Position: 3 Day Pre-Kindergarten AM & PM Teachers Aide (Ms. Jane) & 2 Day Preschool AM & PM Teachers Aide (Ms. Jane)
Bio: My name is Kylie Kritikos and I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Education from California University of PA. I have been working in the Child Learning Center since 2005. I have cared for and loved children of all ages. I worked very hard and was given the opportunity in the fall of 2012 to work with Mrs. Diane Nonack as her Teacher Assistant. I am currently working with Ms. Jane Zelinsky. I have a wonderful husband named Jason and love spending time with my friends and family when I have free time. I also keep very busy operating the Valley Skating Center in Donora. We have a kitty named Lune and also a fun loving Australian Shepherd named Lindy.
Name: Katie Irwin (Miss Katie)
Position: 3 Day Pre-Kindergarten AM & PM Lead Teacher, Learning Journeys Lead Teacher.
Bio: Hello my name is Katie Irwin. I have a Bachelor’s of Science in Elementary Education from California University of PA. I have been employed at the Mon Valley YMCA since 2015. In the past, I have worked in the Daycare Department in the 3-5 year old room and I was also a Lifeguard in the Aquatics department. I love working with children and enjoy their excitement of learning! The YMCA is a family and it’s a wonderful organization for communities, families and children.
I have one dog named Willy and we love to take walks together. I also enjoy crafting, shopping and spending time with my family.
Name: Janie Rodriguez (Mrs. Rodriguez)
Position: 2 Day Preschool AM & PM Lead Teacher
Bio: Hello! My name is Janie Rodriguez. I graduated from California University of Pennsylvania. I have a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education (Elementary/Early Childhood) and a Masters Degree in Education (Reading Specialist). I was a Reading Specialist in the Monessen School District. I have been a substitute teacher at Madonna Catholic Regional School for several years and was the Preschool teacher for two years. I have been working at the YMCA since August of 2014, where I have taught 2-day Preschool and worked in the childcare program. Working with children and having a positive impact on their life is very important to me. My husband Randy and I have a wonderful daughter Gracie, who is our pride and joy. I enjoy spending time with my family, reading and walking.
Name: Maura Carr
Position: Pre-K Counts A Lead Teacher
Bio: My name is Maura Carr. I have been with the YMCA for the past three years and I am very excited to start my journey as the Pre-K Counts teacher . I graduated from the University of Pittsburgh at Greensburg with my degree in early childhood education. I have worked with all ages of children but young kids hold a special place in my heart . Nothing makes me happier than watching young children grow! When I’m not working I love spending time with my family and being outdoors. I also enjoy cooking and trying new foods.
Name: Lauren Bird (Ms. Lauren)
Position: Pre-K Counts A Teachers Aide
Bio: Hello, my name is Lauren Bird. I have my Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration and am pursuing my Child Development Associate credential. I have been with the Mon Valley YMCA since 2015. I am a Teacher Assistant in the Pre-K Counts Classroom. I love watching my students grow and learn everyday. When I’m not in the classroom I enjoy camping in Lake Erie and fun adventures with my family.