Meet Our Educational Team

Our multigenerational team brings together a beautiful blend of perspectives, combining rich caregiving experience with our own unique teaching styles in early childhood education. We are dedicated to teaching, nurturing and empowering our future generation while surrounding your family with professional excellence and a true sense of belonging.

Karen Rhodes/ Director

Hi my name is Karen and I have spent nearly 30 years in this beautiful field, growing from an SPSCC student into a classroom teacher, program supervisor, and director.

Beyond my professional credentials, my greatest joy is my family. I am a proud mother of 7 and grandmother of 10! Raising my own large, loving family has taught me just as much about children as my decades in education.I understand the trust it takes to choose a childcare provider. That is why I bring both my professional experience and a mother's heart into creating a safe, nurturing environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive.

Amber Owens/ Program Supervisor

Hi, I'm Amber

I have been part of the Best Memories Learning Center family for 16 years. I have an AA degree in Early Childhood Education from SPSCC. Working with children has always been my passion, and I love watching them learn, grow, and discover the world around them.

When I'm not in the classroom, I enjoy spending time with my husband, daughter, family, and friends. You'll often find me curled up with a good book in one hand and a cup of coffee in the other.

I feel fortunate to do work that I truly love while making a difference in the lives of children and their families.

Karen Maroldo/ Lead Teacher

Hi, I’m Karen Maroldo

With over 15 years of experience in childcare, I am deeply dedicated to creating safe, fun, and engaging learning environments where children can thrive and grow. Building strong, lasting relationships with our program's children and families—whether during morning drop-offs, preschool lessons, or playtime—is my absolute favorite part of what I do.

Outside of the classroom, my family is my world. I am a wife and proud mother of two beautiful girls who love spending our time together outdoors. You can usually find us camping, hunting, or simply enjoying nature (always with a good cup of coffee in my hand!).

I am incredibly proud to be a part of this team and look forward to partnering with your family!

Lisa Hamilton / Lead Teacher

Hi, my name is Lisa, and I am the Younger Toddler Teacher at Best Memories Learning Center. I have over 20 years of experience in Early Childhood Education and have been part of the Best Memories family for 13 years.

I am the proud mother of three grown sons and enjoy ceramics and genealogy in my free time. I believe children thrive and learn best in a caring, play-based, and nurturing environment, and I love helping them grow each day.

Ashleigh Brunie /Lead Teacher

Hi, I'm Ashleigh.

I started my childcare career in 2020 providing in-home care through DCYF. Inspired by my mom's 20+ years with Head Start and growing up in a large family, I've always felt at home caring for children. I am continuing my education in teaching and child development and am passionate about creating a nurturing environment where children can learn and grow.

Killian McKandless-McEvoy/ Lead Teacher

Hi , I’m Killian.

I started my career in childcare in 2020 and have been in this field for 6 years now. What made me want to work in childcare is my nieces and nephews, watching them learn and grow.

When I am not taking care of the amazing kiddos here you can find me curled up with a book at home with my pomeranian named Jack or out in nature with my boyfriend hiking, camping, and going to concerts!