About Our Staff
Michael (“Mr. Michael”)
Michael, affectionately known as “Mr. Michael” by the children, has served as the Executive Director of MPCCC Inc. since 1995. With over 31 years of leadership, he remains deeply committed to early childhood education and shows no signs of slowing down. As Executive Director, Michael is responsible for the day-to-day management of the center, including supervising staff, reviewing and enhancing curriculum, overseeing administrative operations, and maintaining strong communication with families. Michael holds a Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education Administration, a Level 3 Illinois Director Credential, and a Level 6 ECE Certificate. He is a passionate advocate for the early childhood field and an active participant in community leadership. His past and present roles include: Past President of the Downtown Merchants Association, Former Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce, North Advisory Board Member for Good Shepherd Center (GSC), Board Member for the Illinois Afterschool Network (IAN). Michael is married and the proud father of two adult daughters, Ashleen and Mary Kate. Outside of work, he enjoys traveling, fishing, reading, and spending time outdoors. As an early childhood educator, Michael strongly embraces a play-based philosophy—“play with a purpose.” He believes in fostering meaningful partnerships with families and the community, recognizing that collaboration is essential to supporting children’s growth and development.
Nancy (“Ms. Nancy”)
Nancy brings over 40 years of experience in early childhood education to Mt. Prospect Child Care Center. For the past 3–4 years, she has been a valued member of the MPCCC team, working with children across all early childhood age groups, with the majority of her experience focused on young toddlers and three-year-olds. In addition to her role as a Lead Teacher, Nancy also serves as the Assistant Director, where she works closely with Michael to support daily operations and ensure the center continues to provide high-quality care and education. Nancy firmly believes in creating a warm, nurturing environment that supports the development of the whole child. She strongly advocates for a play-based learning approach, recognizing that children learn, grow, and thrive best through meaningful play. She is proud to be part of the thoughtfully designed, play-based environment that Mt. Prospect Child Care Center provides.Outside of the classroom, Nancy enjoys reading, spending time with family and friends, and is especially excited about becoming a grandmother to twin boys.
Leann (“Ms. Leann”)
Leann Hammer, known to the children as Ms. Leann, has always known that working with children was her true calling. While she has held various jobs over the years, her passion for early childhood education has remained constant. Leann earned her degree in Elementary Education from North Park University and brings over 14 years of experience in early childhood settings. For the past four years, she has served as the Lead Teacher in the Preschool/Pre-K classroom at Mt. Prospect Child Care Center, where she works with children ages 3 to 5. Prior to joining MPCCC, Leann spent more than 10 years teaching in a variety of learning centers, working as a toddler (2-year-old), preschool, and Pre-K teacher. Leann is a proud mother of two daughters, ages 13 and 11, and currently resides in Des Plaines. Outside of the classroom, she enjoys spending quality time with her children, reading, creating art, and exploring the outdoors. At Mt. Prospect Child Care Center, Leann’s goal is to provide a well-rounded, welcoming, and engaging learning environment that encourages children to explore the world from their own perspective. Through a play-based approach, she strives to foster curiosity, confidence, and a love of learning that will positively impact each child’s future success.
Ewa
Ewa joined the Mt. Prospect Child Care Center team in January 2024 and brings with her over 26 years of experience working with children. She has a deep passion for education and finds great joy in spending time with children, observing their development, and watching them learn new letters, numbers, and skills through play and hands-on activities.Ewa holds a Master’s Degree in Literature and Teaching. In her native country of Poland, she taught students in grades 1–8. She continues her dedication to education by teaching at a Saturday Polish School, where she instructs students in the Polish language, as well as the history and geography of Poland. Ewa is happy and excited to be a part of the MPCCC team and values being able to support children’s learning in a warm, engaging, and play-based environment.
Ainura
Ainura is one of the newer members of the Mt. Prospect Child Care Center team and brings a strong educational background along with a genuine love for working with children. She supports classrooms across multiple age groups, including toddlers, twos, and preschool, and enjoys the opportunity to work with children at different stages of development. Ainura holds a Bachelor’s Degree in World Economics (2004) and a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology (2021). She is passionate about continuing to grow both professionally and personally and enjoys improving her English language skills through daily interactions with children, families, and colleagues. Ainura values teamwork and enjoys collaborating with her peers at MPCCC. Her caring nature, flexibility, and enthusiasm help create a positive and supportive learning environment for children and staff alike.
Nadia
Nadia works behind the scenes as our part-time cook, preparing meals and supporting the center during morning hours. Her work plays an important role in creating a healthy, nurturing environment for our children. In addition to her role at MPCCC, Nadia attends Oakton Community College two days a week. She also works in the bakery department at Mariano’s in the afternoons, bringing valuable food service experience and care into everything she does. Nadia holds a Master’s Degree in Information and Communication Sciences from Algeria. She is married and resides in Mount Prospect. Her dedication, reliability, and quiet support help keep our daily routines running smoothly.
Richard
Richard has been part of the Mt. Prospect Child Care Center family since 2011, when he was first introduced to the program as a student. Over the years, his connection to MPCCC has grown into a meaningful role supporting both children and staff. Richard graduated with his high school diploma in 2024 and is currently attending Elmhurst College, where he is studying Biology. At MPCCC, he serves as our “super sub,” stepping in across classrooms and schedules to ensure consistency, support, and quality care whenever it is needed. Richard truly enjoys working with children and building positive relationships with them. His flexibility, enthusiasm, and familiarity with our program make him a valued and trusted member of our team.
Contact us
We would love to hear from you! Whether you have questions about enrollment, programs, tuition, or would like to schedule a tour, our team is here to help.