A Child's Garden

Our Staff

Our teachers and staff members are enthusiastic about children and teaching! The interaction between children and adults is positive, warm and nurturing, with lots of attention to each child's needs. We find that our teachers are happy here, with many of our staff remaining for a number of years.

Lisa Herbst,

Program Director

It is an honor and a privilege to serve as the Program Director of both A Child’s Garden and Wee Lad & Lassie Early Learning Center beginning in 1985. I am especially proud of our Level 5 rating in MD EXCELS which is evidence of our dedication to high quality early childhood education and care. My guiding philosophy is to meet the needs of each child and family through the application of best practices in early education and my knowledge of child development.

I completed my undergraduate education at Penn State University in Biology with an Early Childhood Education minor, followed by a Masters in Early Childhood Education at Towson University. In 2016 I earned my doctorate from Johns Hopkins University in Education with a specialization in Entrepreneurial Leadership. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to prepare young children for success in school and in life!

Greg McClure, Assistant Director

I live on the Eastern shore with my wife and daughters. Both my wife and I are educators in Anne Arundel County and enjoy the scenic commute over the bay bridge every day! Since 2001, I have served as classroom teacher, child development specialist, and administrator. I truly feel privileged to be serving as our school's Assistant Director! Please never hesitate to call, email, or stop by the office for a chat.

Deinz Carroll, Toddler/Twos Lead Teacher

Most recently, I worked as a lead teacher at St. Helen & Constantine Greek Orthodox Preschool and I was with St. Margaret’s Day School in Annapolis for four years. I have a Bachelor’s in Economics from St. Mary’s College of Maryland and a certificate in early education from Anne Arundel Community College. I have two wonderful daughters, ages 15 and 16, that keep me on my toes. In my spare time, I love to travel, read and spend time with my family. Looking forward to all the magic we create in our classroom this year!

Grace Johnson, Toddler/Twos Lead Teacher

I began teaching at A Child's Garden in 2021. I graduated from Loyola University with a bachelors degree in Psychology in 2018. I have lived in Severna Park my whole life, so I love being able to work in this awesome community! I've worked with children for most of my life. I've been a nanny, interned in an elementary school, a camp counselor and more! I love spending time with my family and friends, cooking and traveling. My favorite thing is to see children come into their own personalities. I look forward to meeting your children and watching them grow and learn.!

Erielle Williams-Makell, Toddler/Two's Assistant Teacher

I have worked with children my whole life. I love the joy children bring and they have always been my passion. I'm honored to be a part of A Child's Garden.

Kymora McGowans,
Toddler/Two's Assistant Teacher

I graduated from Broadneck High School in 2022 and I have a 1 year old son. I have always loved children of all ages. I enjoy helping children learn, grow and most important keep a smile on their face. I am looking forward to my journey here at A Child's Garden.

Ivy Cofer, Three's Lead Teacher

I am very excited to be working as the 3's lead teacher! I earned my bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from Liberty University. I am fairly new to Severna Park, but have enjoyed the scenery, history and water. I am married to my high school sweetheart, who is in the Marine Corps, and we have 2 children. I have always worked with children and have done so in many different capacities. I cannot wait to watch the children learn and grow this year.

Morgan Doneski, Three's Assistant Teacher

I am so excited to be joining A Child’s Garden as an assistant in our two’s program. Children has always been so important to me and I enjoy watching them grow everyday! I come to A Child’s Garden from the nursing field and have always enjoyed pediatrics. As a former student of A Child’s Garden I am so excited to be home!

Lindsay Dumbrowski,
Older Two's Lead Teacher

I am so happy to be part of the wonderful team here at A Child’s Garden! I come with several years’ experience and have enjoyed my time as an Infant teacher, toddler teacher, and two’s teacher. I am Infant/Toddler and Preschool teacher certified and will be in our older 2’s class as well as leading our afternoon extended care program.

Zoey Groves, Older Two's Assistant Teacher

I am a classroom floater here at A Child’s Garden! I love being able to work with all of the children through out the day, I am also the assistant for our afternoon extended care program. I have enjoyed my time in the early childhood education field and look forward to the years ahead.