Round Lake Beach, IL (847) 223-1299

Reviews

“Our son had been going to First Steps since he was 10 weeks old. Recently we had to unenroll him since we were moving and we regret having to do so. The teachers are great, the staff is great, and our son learned so much during his time at this school. What my wife and I loved most about First Steps was that the kids were always learning. They were always engaged in some sort of fun activity. The teachers are interactive w/ the children and care about each and every student. I only wish that we could find another day care like First Steps and I wish they were closer because we would definately send our child back. So, if you are looking for a wonderful place to send your child, along w/ a very reasonable rate, send them to First Steps!“

- yellowpages.com

Meet the Team

Ashely Carey

Position: Pre-K teacher                                                          
Explain your experience in Early Childhood Education: I have been working at First Steps for almost two years. I enjoy growing and learning from the other teachers and students. It is a lot of fun watching the children grow and build their knowledge.
Favorite Children’s Book: Brown Bear, Brown Bear         

Jamie Dorsey

Assistant Director


                                                          
Explain your experience in Early Childhood Education: I first started working at First Steps as an assistant teacher 14 years ago. I have been furthering my education at CLC. I am working towards my associate’s degree.
Favorite Children’s Book: Row row row your boat
                                                    
 

Jana Hyde

Position: Preschool Teacher                                                                           
Explain your experience in Early Childhood Education: I am a licensed para professional and am continuing my education at CLC. I have always loved teaching and collecting children’s literature.
Favorite Children’s Book: Sylvester and the magic pebble by William Steig       

Joy Root

Position: Infant teacher                                                                                  
Explain your experience in Early Childhood Education: I have been working with children of all ages for 15 years and have been working with infants for 9 years. I have my associate’s degree in Early Childhood education.
Favorite Children’s Book: Cat in the hat by Dr. Seuss    
 

Katie Conklin

Position: Teacher       
Explain your experience in Early Childhood Education: I have a lot of experience with children from babysitting and working for over a year here at First Steps. I love working with children and am currently pursuing my Bachelor’s degree in elementary education at northern Illinois University.
Favorite Children’s Book: The Polar Express         

Sandy Milligan

Position: Assistant Teacher                                                                
Explain your experience in Early Childhood Education: I have a bachelor’s degree in Business management along with Early Childhood Education, EC1+ EC2, and 12 years of experience in a prior HeadStart program. Children are my passion.
Favorite Children’s Book: Tickle monster​

Terry Breitzman

Position: Two’s and toddler’s teachers                                                                                  
Explain your experience in Early Childhood Education: I’ve been working at First Steps for a few months now and I love it. Everyone welcomes me with open arms and I love what I do.
Favorite Children’s Book: The Very Hungry Caterpillar     

Viviana Trujillo

Position: Teacher
Explain your experience in Early Childhood Education: I have been working with children between the ages of 6 weeks to 7 years old and it’s an amazing passion I have. I have my associate’s degree in Applied Science for early childhood education and two credentials. I am working towards my bachelor’s degree.
Favorite Children’s Book: Pete the cat in my white shoes
  
 
Tuesday July 8, 2025