Our Team
Beth
Interim Executive Director
Hello my name is Beth! I am absolutely thrilled to be joining the Tenney Preschool community this summer as the Interim Executive Director.
I have been dedicated to the field of education for over 20 years. During the school year, I serve as an Early Childhood Special Educator and the 4K Coordinator for the School District of Fort Atkinson. I hold a Bachelors in Education and a Masters in Special Education, along with advanced licensures in Educational Leadership and Instructional Coaching. I am also a Nationally Board Certified Educator. My deep passion is supporting teachers, students, and classrooms to ensure every child has the tools they need to thrive, and I am excited to bring that experience to Tenney Preschool over the coming months.
When I’m not wearing my educator hat, my time is centered around my family. I love spending time with my husband and our 11-year-old son. I am an avid traveler who loves exploring new places, but I also appreciate the quiet moments at home with a warm cup of coffee and a great book in hand!
Julie
Caterpillar Room
Hi there! I’m Julie, one of the lead teachers in Caterpillar Class and current Tenney Staff Representative and Board Member.
My journey into teaching began in 2010, when I transitioned from being a stay-at-home mom to teaching half-days at my daughters’ school, Luther Memorial Preschool. When LMP closed in June 2015, I was fortunate to find Tenney—and it’s been my home ever since. After more than 10 wonderful years here, I can truly say Tenney feels like family. I’ve loved building connections with children, families, and staff in this special community—it’s a hidden gem among Madison preschools!As a teacher,
I believe children thrive in hands-on, play-based environments where curiosity leads the way. You’ll often find us exploring the outdoors, tending the garden we started together, or creating art with natural “loose parts” like leaves, stones, and twigs we’ve collected. The Caterpillar Class spends much of our day outdoors—nature is an essential part of how we learn and grow. Nothing compares to watching a child’s face light up at the sight of a new sprout or a crawling caterpillar.
Every day our classroom is filled with laughter, discovery, and creativity—and I feel truly grateful to be part of each child’s learning journey. Come join us!
Noa
Caterpillar Room
Hi, I’m Ms. Noa! I joined the Tenney team in May of 2024 & have been working with children for over 8 years, earning my Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education in 2023 from Madison College.
My passion lies in nurturing curious, creative minds, especially those between the ages of 2 and 9—and I’m currently planning to return to school to pursue a dual certification/Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood and Special Education.
My teaching style is inspired by nature, art, and the unique interests of each child. Whether we’re exploring the outdoors, diving into a painting project, or building an activity around a child’s favorite story or toy, I love creating hands-on experiences that spark joy and learning. Outside the classroom, I live with my wonderful wife, Autumn, our two lovable dogs (Dexter and Sophie), and our mischievous cat Juniper. A lifelong Madison local, I enjoy the vibrant community here and take every chance I get to camp, hike, or simply soak up the Wisconsin sunshine. I’m so excited to grow and learn alongside your little ones!
Clare
Rainbow Room
Hi I’m Clare. I’m a certified Lead Teacher and high school Dance Coach. I have experience working in Special Education and have been working with children for nearly 8.5 years in many capacities. I enjoy a play-based curriculum with an emphasis on physical expression and the arts. I prioritize children’s full range of emotions and model empathy in my teaching.
Outside of the classroom I have a one-year-old son, spend the majority of my time off traveling, and take a lot of pride in my lively garden.
Michelle
Bumblebee Room
Hello! My name is Michelle, a dual language Preschool Teacher with over 5 years’ experience in the classroom working with children 12 weeks – 9 years old. I have a technical diploma in Early Childhood Education from Madison College. I’ve worked in a Spanish immersion preschool, was a Pre-K art teacher, and have enjoyed lead teaching multiple age groups. One of my favorite parts of my role as a Preschool Teacher is getting to know the children and growing connections with their families.
Outside of teaching I enjoy caring for my plants and cats, spending quality time with my friends, and taking spontaneous road trips.
Payton
Bumblebee Room
Hello, my name is Payton, and I teach children from birth to school age. I hold a Lead Teaching Credential, have a background in psychology, including child development, and have been working with children for most of my life. I value building strong relationships with each child, getting to know their unique personality and what teaching strategies work best for them.
When I’m not teaching, I enjoy spending time outdoors, singing, spending time with my friends, and relaxing with quiet activities. I’m a proud hobby hopper and find joy in trying new things.
Robin
Bumblebee Room
Hello! My name is Robin Anderson I have been a lead teacher in childcare for about 10 years now working with ages birth to about 5 years old. I am originally from Milwaukee and moved to Madison in 2021. Watching kids grow and thrive as people has always been a highlight of working in this field!
In my spare time I enjoy reading, camping, watching movies and hanging out with my family!
Macie
Summer Camp Room
Hi! I am Macie Bender and I am super excited to be leading your kiddos in summer camp! I am from southwest Wisconsin, and I am a few short months from graduating at the University of Wisconsin Platteville with a Bachelor of Fine Arts. I have always enjoyed working with kids throughout K-12 inspiring them to think outside of their own creativity! I am looking forward to a great, engaging and exciting summer with your kids- learning from them hopefully as much as they learn from me!