Dedicated, Professional, Nurturing, & Consistent

Educated, well-trained, and dedicated: First School’s team of teachers work together to provide high-quality early education for children in Northwest Arkansas. 

The majority of our teachers have degrees in early childhood education or related fields. They also complete yearly continuous education and training as part of their employment. Teachers are carefully selected based on their previous teaching experience and ability to bond and effectively communicate and nurture children. 

We ensure that all teachers pass stringent background screenings and thoroughly review their personal references. Above all, we strive to employ teachers who genuinely appreciate and value children, who love the early childhood profession, and have a strong, positive curiosity about life that sparks confidence and joy in those around them.

“There are not enough stars to rate how wonderful this school is. The teachers are amazingly caring, thoughtful, and skilled at what they do.” — Paige Grunnagle

2024-25 Teacher & Classroom List

• Director: Cathy Hairston
• Toddlers: Lisa Gaddy, Emily Griffins
• Younger 2’s: Lee Pendley, Riley Roussin
• Older 2’s: Tashea Johnson, Lauren Stuart
• Younger 3’s: , Danette Fields, Jamie Bohning, Shaletha Parks
• Older 3’s: Lea Millett, Rosa Marinoni
• Younger 4’s: Christian Hornwell, Lynn Dickinson, Tori Moore
• Older 4’s: Tracey McCartney, Mackenzie Nafis, Miki Rousseau, Melissa Anderson
• Kindergarten: Sue Conlee, Diana Laningham
• Music: Patti Dutton
• Office Assistant: Lucia Westervelt