About

John Sears

Director

John Sears is the founder and Director of Newport Children’s Academy, located in the Roscoe Village neighborhood of Chicago, Illinois. In 2008, Sears opened his first preschool, and by 2014, under Sears’ direction, the school grew to accommodate two hundred children. Sears helped to design the school, drawing on an extensive family background that spans over five decades in child-care, preschool, after-school, and summer camp programs.

The Newport Children’s Academy building was carefully scouted and chosen by Sears to provide a solution to many of the issues facing parents in the Chicagoland area, such as long waiting lists for quality care, confined spaces, and unsafe locations. Sears was thrilled to source a self-contained location that offers safety, security, and ample learning space.

Sears is a licensed daycare director, holding certifications that include training programs approved by the Department of Children and Family Services. Sears is an advocate of lifelong learning. He remains current by continuing his education within the evolving field of Early Childcare Development. He holds a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Illinois in Speech Communication.

His main philosophy is that the most important aspect of the preschool experience is a child’s happiness. He hires teachers and staff who are genuinely enthusiastic about helping kids to grow and learn. “If the children light up when their teacher walks into the room, then we’re doing things right.”

Sears has been married since 2004. He and his wife Angela are proud parents of two children, ages seven and nine.

Ashley Funkhouser

Executive Director

Hello, Newport families and friends. My name is Ashley Funkhouser, I am the Executive Director at Newport Children’s Academy.  I grew up right here in Chicago. I currently live in Woodridge, IL with my husband Ryan and our sons Collin and Aidan.  I went to National Louis University and studied Early Childhood Education.  I was lucky enough to start working here at Newport before it was even open in 2016.  I began as a teacher, shortly after I became the Assistant Director and then moved to my current position.  As the Executive Director I am looking forward to interacting with all the children and families and getting to know everyone, a little more.  I will work hard to continue to welcome new families and help our Newport family grow.    During my free time, I enjoy spending time with my husband Ryan, our sons and our two yorkies!

Kristin Wurm

Toddler Twos Program Director

Hi Newport families! My name is Kristin Wurm and I am thrilled to be joining the Newport community. I have been passionate about working with children since I was young, and have spent most of my life helping young children grow and develop. I spent many years as a nanny throughout high school and college and then worked with families creating and developing nutrition plans that worked for each parent and child. I recently moved to Chicago and have loved exploring the city. I have a knack for adventure and enjoy traveling, hiking, running, and spending time with family and friends. I look forward to meeting you all!

Jessica Moctezuma

Infant Teacher & Infant Team Lead

Hi, Newport Families! My name is Jessica Moctezuma and I’m from Chicago, IL. I joined Newport Children’s Academy two years ago and it has been a wonderful experience being part of this team. Prior to Newport I was working as a nanny in the suburbs. I began working with children in Chicago during my first semester of college in 2012. Since then, I have worked with infants – 8th grade. I believe that children are our future and I love building relationships with the families to help children reach their full potential. During my free time, I spend most of my time at home with my dog, plants and family. I love photography, traveling, digging through old vinyls and visiting museums.

Please feel free to ask any questions! I look forward to meeting all of you and watching your children reach new milestones!

Daniela Medina

Infant Teacher

Hello Newport families! I am so excited to be part of the infant room. My name is Daniela R Medina. I was raised in Chicago and most of my life I been tutoring and taking care of children in middle schools’ after school program. That’s where I knew that I had a passion on becoming an early childhood education teacher. In May 2021, I graduate from Morton college with an associate degree in early childhood education. I am still continuing my education to receive my bachelor’s in early childhood education. I believe as a teacher assistant and an early childhood student that every child is unique in their own special way and every day can be an adventure with them since we are always learning something new each day, especially this is the greatest milestone for them.

Jeanette Roman

Infant Teacher

Hello! My name is Jeanette Roman and it is such an honor to be part of the Newport Team! I have over 3 years of experience working with children and I’ve learned so much about their personalities and their needs throughout this time.  My favorite part about working with infants is showing all my love, teaching sign language, singing songs, neighborhood walks, and lesson planning. I enjoy going to work everyday to spend time with our kiddos, entertaining them, and bringing them happiness. Outside of work, I enjoy being a hairstylist, traveling, listening to music, and spending time with my family. I’m looking forward to meeting your kiddo and being part of the team.

Nora Ostrow

Infant Teacher

Hello there! My name is Nora Ostrow and I am super excited to be a part of the Newport Children’s Academy! I have always had a passion for working with kids, starting with always trying to help my mom with taking care of my younger sister. I started babysitting as soon as I was allowed to, and my first job was at an ice rink, where I got to hang out with some future figure skaters and hockey stars. That really sparked my drive and I followed it with nannying and my first taste of working in a daycare center. I love to see kids learning and growing in every way, and I’m very grateful to be a part of the process!

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When I’m not working, I’m hanging out at home with my boyfriend, my dog; Suki, my two cats; Monster and Dany. I love anything and everything Star Wars, and if I’m not rewatching that, you’ll probably find me aggressively binge-watching Naruto. I’m an avid lover of imagination, so dressing up as whatever I want and heading to the Renaissance Faire over the summer is a thrilling hobby. I’m looking forward to going back to school to get a degree in early childhood education, and maybe even psychology, so I can strive to be the best I can be for your kiddos! I can’t wait to meet you all!

Natalie Jones

Infant Teacher

Hi everyone! My name is Natalie Jones and I am so excited to join Newport! I just recently moved to Chicago from Bloomington/Normal where I attended college. I have many years of working with children from babysitting, nannying, and preschool to being an overnight camp counselor for 2 months. These experiences really sparked my desire to work with children as I love watching them learn and grow. A fun fact about me is that I was born in New Jersey and have lived in New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Canada and Nebraska! I am so excited to be a part of the Newport community and can’t wait to meet all of the wonderful families!

Krystal Salgado

Infant Teacher

Hi, my name is Krystal! I have worked with children since 2020. I have experience in working with every age group and teaching preK for two years. I also have experience in babysitting my own younger siblings growing up. I graduated from MVCC with my associates in arts and started working with children after college. My favorite things to do outside of work is paint and draw, going out on walks and spending time with my family and friends. I’m so excited to be a part of your child’s learning journey!

Charisma Urbina

Infant Teacher

Hi Newport families! My name is Charisma and I am thrilled to be joining the Newport Children’s Academy. With over three years of experience working with children, growing up in a large family ignited my passion for this field. I recently graduated from the University of Illinois Chicago with a B.A. in Applied Psychology. In my free time, I enjoy baking, reading, spending quality time with my family and pets (I have seven!), and listening to music. I am excited to support your little ones as they grow.

Emelyn Roman

Infant Teacher

Hello Newport Families! My name is Miss Emelyn. I am so happy and grateful to be part of Infant Program. Caring for kids requires a lot of energy and dedication. I have six years of experience babysitting and I am deeply passionate about education and the future of our children. The best part of coming to work is spending time with our kiddos, making new memories, and making them happy. I have loved every second being part of your child’s journey here at Newport and look forward to meeting new families. Outside of work I enjoy going to the working out, and a girl’s day with my mom and little sister.

Emily Dehmer

Toddler Teacher

Hello, my name is Emily Dehmer! I graduated from the University of Wisconsin Whitewater with a B.A. in Social Work and a minor is Family, Health, and Disability Studies. I have been teaching toddlers here at Newport Children’s Academy since 2017. I have always loved working with children. I have previously worked in child welfare as a foster care caseworker, and I have also worked with children with Autism in a school setting as a paraprofessional. I enjoy working with toddlers specifically because toddlers are in a stage where they are learning so much. They hit so many milestones at this age. From verbal and social skills, to fine motor and gross motor skills. There is so much to teach them, and it is never boring. I love being able to see how much they’ve grown and learned from the time they enter my room to the time they leave!

Claire Gerbasi

Toddler Teacher

Grace Griffin

Toddler Teacher

Roselyn Brito

Toddler Teacher

Sanmaris Rodriguez

Toddler Teacher

Bio Coming Soon!

Evangeline Rubio

Twos Teacher & Director of Teacher Engagement

Hello, my name is Evangeline Rubio! I am appreciative of the opportunity to teach at Newport Children’s Academy! I have a Bachelor of Science in Communicative Disorders with an emphasis in Speech-Language Pathology/Audiology from Northern Illinois University. I was a Behavioral Therapist for 2.5 years, am an advocate of all children and individuals with disabilities, and a reading/math tutor. My various academic and professional experiences have contributed to the characteristics I acquire as a teacher. I respect and admire all of the work done at Newport Children’s Academy and I appreciate that we share common professional interests of providing a safe environment for individualized instruction to each student. In my spare time, I enjoy going on walks with my dog, playing softball, cooking new recipes I find on Pinterest, and listening to podcasts!

I am so delighted to meet the Newport families and especially grateful to be part of the momentous journey of your child/children!

Maricela Torres

Twos Teacher

Hi, my name is Maricela “Mari” Torres and I am thrilled to join the Newport family! I was born and raised in Chicago and I graduated from Northeastern Illinois University with a  B.A. in interdisciplinary studies. I started teaching daycare in 2016 and have enthusiastically pursued this career ever since. I am very passionate about children and can’t wait to have one of my own. I enjoy working out, playing soccer and spending time with my family, including my fraternal twin sister whom I share a very powerful bond with. I wake up excited everyday to spend time with my students. I may never know what to expect but know that they’ll always make me smile. 

Yanira Trejo

Twos Teacher

Bianca Pagan

Two's Teacher

Hello!  My name is Biance and I have worked with children for many years, from tutoring through the YMCA, nannying, and working in a variety of Montessori schools throughout Chicago.  I gained a Bachelor’s in Psychology from DePaul University and bring a strong understanding of social and emotional development into the classroom.  I pull motivation from my desire to help others and passion for empowering young minds.  When I’m not working, I enjoy baking, reading, working out, and going on hikes.  I’m so glad to be a part of the team and can’t wait to get to know the students and families more!

Jennifer Trejo-Muñoz

Twos/Threes Teacher

Madeleine Erdmann

Two/Three's Teacher

Consuelo Flores

Spanish Teacher

¡Hola! My name is Consuelo Flores. I am very excited to join the Newport family. I was born and raised in Chile where I attended University of La Serena, Chile and got my Bachelor’s degree in Education and Teaching a Foreign Language. I moved to Chicago in 2021 after meeting my husband.

I’ve taught children a second language in many settings; as a Camp Monitor, Spanish-English tutor, and teacher.

My passion is working with kids and I am beyond happy to share a part of my culture, the Spanish language, to children. I believe that one of the most important things in life is happiness during childhood, and learning a new language is always fun!

Besides teaching, what I love to do most is arts & crafts and gluten free baking. I really enjoy working creatively.

Kelly Nugent

Preschool Teacher

Hello Everyone!  My name is Kelly Nugent and I couldn’t be happier to begin 2019 as a member of the Newport Children’s Academy team. I am very grateful for the opportunity to work in such an amazing and supportive environment. As long as I can remember my greatest desire has been to work with children. My experience caring for children started in my teens and includes teaching Sunday school, being a camp counselor, and assisting a newborn photographer. I can’t think of anything more fulfilling than being a part of a child’s growth and education. It is a special feeling to invest in the life of a child and watch “the light go on.”  I look forward to continuing my education and earning certifications that will better equip me to serve the children here at Newport Children’s Academy. When I’m not at NCA, I enjoy camping and spending time with friends and family.  I am also an animal lover and enjoy the attentions of my best kitty, Nora.

Jessica Althouse

Preschool Teacher

Hello, my name is Jessica Althouse! I am very happy to be a part of the team here at Newport Children’s Academy. I graduated from the University of California, Santa Barbara with a B.A. in Classics and a minor in English. I have been working with children for many years, in the past as a City Year Americops member, as substitute teacher, and as a paraprofessional aide for a child with autism. I am a strong believer in the importance of helping children develop a love of learning and I believe that making the school environment a fun and engaging place to be is one of the best ways to do so.  In my spare time I enjoy reading, writing, traveling, and spending time with my friends and family

Juah Swarray

Preschool Teacher

I’m delighted to be a part of the Green Preschool team. With a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and a TEFL certification, I bring a unique perspective to early childhood education. My background in business management has honed my organizational and communication skills, which I use to create a nurturing and dynamic classroom environment.

My teaching philosophy centers on the concept of learning through play. I believe that young children thrive in an environment where they can explore, discover, and learn at their own pace. By observing each child’s individual learning style, I strive to communicate and engage with them in a way that resonates personally with them. This approach helps foster a love for learning and supports their overall development.

Outside the classroom, I enjoy reading, traveling, hiking, and participating in trivia challenges. These activities not only enrich my life but also inspire me to bring fresh ideas and enthusiasm into my teaching.

I’m excited to embark on this educational journey with your child and look forward to a wonderful year of growth and discovery!

Sammi McWhorter

Preschool Teacher

Hello everybody!  I am stoked to be a part of Newport Children’s Academy!  I am a recent graduate from Ball State University where I received a dual Bachelor of Science degree in both Early Childhood Education and Early Childhood Special Education.  I have a wide range of experience with children all the way from toddlers to fifth grade from working as a camp counselor for many years and have always been heavily involved with anything kid-oriented.  It brings me the greatest joy in the world to provide children with a safe, accepting, creative, and inclusive outlet to grow.

I’m an only child who grew up in the suburbs her whole life and it’s been a dream of mine to come back and live in the city.  I’ve always been a huge theatre nerd, performing in various musicals with a Chicago theatre company until I went to college.  Other hobbies of mine include surrounding myself with friends, watching the latest Netflix originals, photography, and eating out as much as possible (guilty pleasure, for sure).  I can’t wait to become a part of your child’s life and learn what makes them, them!

Maya Seefeldt

Preschool Teacher

My name is Maya Seefeldt and I am ecstatic to be apart of the Newport Children’s Academy’s wonderful community! I’ve lived in the northern suburbs of Chicago my whole life up until attending the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign where I graduated in 2023 with a bachelor of science in psychology. Upon graduating, I knew my strongest desire is to work with kids and help them grow to realize their fullest potential, and I worked as a clinic assistant in a pediatric therapy clinic that specializes in occupational, speech, and physical therapy. During my time there I worked with young children of all unique abilities grow to their greatest potential, which made me only want to pursue my love for building children’s confidence and individuality in a fun, safe, and creative way even more. I recently moved to the city of Chicago and am so excited to be working with the team of amazing teachers here as well as supporting each child’s brilliance here at Newport! Outside of the school you would normally find me reading a good book, with my beagle Olive, in exercise classes, and exploring all the city can offer.

Ashley Homolka

Preschool Teacher

Hi my name is Ashley Homolka! I am a new teacher at Newport and so excited to be here! I grew up in the western suburbs of Chicago and have lived in the city for the past few years. I graduated from Loyola Chicago with a Bachelor’s in Psychology. I am now currently at DePaul University getting my Master’s in Mental Health Counseling. I have years of experience working with kids in various settings such as a preschool, a pediatric developmental center, and babysitting! I’ve always had a passion for working with children and love being a part in the growth process. Early childhood is a crucial stage in their development, and I want to provide a safe and nurturing environment. I see myself as a teacher who can influence a child’s life, and this inspires me to put in my best every day. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my boyfriend and family, painting, being outside, and watching tv/movies. I am so excited to be your teacher and watch your little ones grow!

Caitlin Habley

PreK Teacher/Preschool Program Director

Hi, there! My name is Caitlin Habley, and I’ve been teaching preschool-aged children since 2013, when I completed my undergraduate degree at Western Michigan University. Since graduating from WMU, I have taken courses at Kendall College in Early Education. I am originally from the suburbs of Chicago; I moved to the city after my graduation in 2013. I have had the pleasure of working in two different early childcare centers prior to starting at NCA, and I am looking forward to continuing my teaching career here at Newport. Outside of teaching, I am all about being outdoors and in nature. I really enjoy running, playing beach volleyball, and being with my friends and my dog. My family is extremely important to me, and I love to get together with them at our cabin in Door County, Wisconsin as much as I can. I am so excited to meet all the families and children at Newport Children’s Academy!

Ali Wolfe

PreK Teacher

Hi Newport families! My name is Miss Wolfe and I am super excited to officially join the team! I am a 2020 graduate from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign with a degree in Elementary Education. I have a deep love for teaching and helping little minds expand and grow! In my free time, I love trying new restaurants and walking around the lakefront. I can’t wait to meet you all!

Mattie Foley

PreK Teacher

Hi my name is Miss. Foley! I have a Bachelor’s degree in Special Education from the University of Dayton and have been working in Early Childhood Education for the past few years, which I absolutely love. It’s amazing to watch the children learn and grow every day and I believe in facilitating that through genuine interactions and meaningful exploration and by providing the children with positive encouragement and support to explore the world around them. I can’t wait to watch your children flourish and please feel free to ask me any questions you might have!

Christyne Sapp

PreK Teacher

“Teachers who love teaching, teach children to love learning.”  I have a deep passion for young children and helping them develop, learn, and succeed.  I have been with Newport since 2017 in a variety of capacities from assistant to lead teacher to program director and back.  I have found that I want to spend my entire day with children as we learn from each other through experiences, inquiry, and connection.  I have degrees and certifications in Psychology, Family and Play Therapy, and Early Childhood Education from Loyola, K-State, and UIC respectively and am currently licensed in the state of Illinois to teach.

My husband and I have two children, Eloise and Emerson, a dog, Tucker, and two guinea pigs (the class pets), Winnie and Piglet.  In my spare time (if I get any), I enjoy listening to music (both recorded and live), rewatching movies and TV shows, baking, and reading children’s picture books.

“Find a job you enjoy doing and you will never have to work a day in your life.”  I feel this each day I get to teach through play, see students “get it”, and make meaningful connections with each and every one of my students and can’t wait to continuing doing so!

Shannon Lorden

PreK Teacher

My name is Shannon Lorden. I was born in Rockford, Illinois.  Yes- that’s where Cheap Trick was born too:) I am the fourth born out of five siblings. I have two brothers and two sisters.  Just recently graduated from Edgewood College in Madison Wisconsin. I graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Studies in Education. I enjoy spending time with my family and friends in the outdoors and listening to music.  I am really excited to be teaching at Newport Children’s Academy and look forward to getting to know all you better!

Quinese Murphy

School Wide Floater

Hello, Newport Children’s Academy families. I’m so excited to start this new journey. I was born in Chicago, Illinois, and I recently graduated from the University of Dubuque with my B.S. in Psychology. My hobbies are dancing and walking alone on the beach. My favorite quote is by B.F Skinner: “Education is what survives when what has been learned has been forgotten.” I am passionate about helping children reach their full potential. I can’t wait to meet each and every one of you. Welcome to the family!

Bridget O'Connor

Floater

I am excited to be joining the Newport community in the Infant room! I moved to Chicago from New England in 2011 and fell in love with this city while attending Columbia College. I graduated with a degree in Theater and have 15 years of childcare experience. While working at Gymboree Play & Music, I was able to receive a strong introduction to early childhood development for all ages! Exploratory play is so important and I am very passionate about combining song, rhythm, and music during our daily curriculum any chance we can. Children love repetition through music and I love encouraging this, as it builds self assurance and the ability to understand patterns. During my free time, I enjoy singing, dancing, writing, spending time in nature, taking care of my indoor plants, and taking my dog, Toby, to the park. I am so thrilled to be a part of the Newport family and can’t wait to meet you and your little ones!

Marti Neal

Floater Teacher

My name is Ms. Neal and I am SO excited to work with your children during their time here at Newport.  It is such a rewarding experience watching students grow and advance to their next challenges.  It is my personal goal to ensure I aid in nurturing, challenging, and motivating your children.  This is such an important time in their lives because they are discovering different aspects of their personality.  It’s my job as an educator and nurturer to make sure they have a safe and healthy outlet to express those personalities.  This age group is one of the most fun to be around.  Everyone has something to say and I love listening to their stories.  When I’m not being entertained by your children’s stories, I enjoy going to the beach, exploring our beautiful city of Chicago, and painting.  I look forward to getting to know all of you more!

Jailene Recendiz

Floater

Hello Newport families!  I am super excited to be joining the Newport community! I am originally from Naperville but moved to Chicago in late September! I studied law enforcement at Western Illinois University until I realized that it wasn’t the path I wanted to take! I have always loved working with children and watching them grow. I’ve been a nanny for many years and also worked with children at my local park district! Aside from my love for children, I also like to spend my free time hanging out with my friends and family! I love trying new restaurants and finding new places to explore and am big on running and traveling! I am so happy to have joined such a wonderful workplace filled with so many wonderful people! I can’t wait to meet you all!

Lena Martinez

Floater

Greetings Newport families! My name is Lena Martinez and I am thrilled to be apart of the blue toddler’s room. I grew up in Brooklyn NY and moved to Chicago to attend the Art institute. I started working with children in a professional setting as a volunteer art teacher when I was 13. I have worked with daycare age children ever since and fostering a safe and loving environment is very important to me. Caring for and teaching our next generation is my passion and seeing their growth and smiles is so rewarding. It’s been wonderful to work with you and your kiddos!

Harper Leander

Floater

Bio Coming Soon

Malia Diaz

Floater

Bio Coming Soon

Dalilah Salgado

Floater

Bio Coming Soon!

Asharra Matthews

Floater

Bio Coming Soon!

Sonia Salgado

Floater

Bio Coming Soon!