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

2025-2026 Teacher & Classroom List

• Director: Cathy Hairston
• Assistant Director: Christian Hornwell
• Toddlers: Lisa Gaddy, Emily Griffins
• Younger 2’s: Lee Pendley
• Older 2’s: Riley Roussin, Leonore McGuire
• Younger 3’s: Danette Fields, Jamie Bohning
• Older 3’s: Lauren Stuart
• Younger 4’s: Lisa Bingham, Tori Moore
• Older 4’s:  MWF: Tracey McCartney, Diana Laningham, TTH: Miki Rousseau, Melissa Anderson
• Kindergarten: Lea Millett, Rosa Marinoni
• Music: Patti Dutton