Our Team

Jerelen, RN BSN
Founder & Pediatric Nurse
Jeralen brings over 12 years of experience in pediatric and nursing care and serves as the visionary founder of Mighty Sprouts Montessori. Motivated by a deep passion for child development and inspired by her role as a mother of two, she set out to create a nurturing environment where children can truly flourish.
Her journey from nursing to founding Mighty Sprouts reflects her unwavering dedication to supporting the holistic growth of every child, ensuring they are cared for, inspired, and empowered to reach their full potential.

Judith Ann, BA ECE, NAMC
Director
Judith Fredericks leads Mighty Sprouts as our Director, bringing over 15 years of experience in education and more than 6 years in leadership roles. She holds a BA in Early Childhood Education with a specialization in Special Education and is also a proud mother of three.
Her career includes over five years as a Head Preschool Teacher and seven years running a successful in-home daycare, giving her both classroom expertise and administrative insight. Judith is passionate about building an inclusive, nurturing environment where every child can thrive, and she is dedicated to supporting both families and staff with excellence.

Ms. Alyssa
Head Preschool Teacher
Ms. Alyssa began her Mighty Sprouts journey as a Toddler Teacher and has served as our Head Preschool Teacher for over two years. With five years of toddler experience, a Bachelor’s Degree in Art Education, a NJ State K-12 Teaching Certificate, and certification as a NAMC Montessori Primary Teacher, she brings a wealth of expertise to our program.
Known for her patience and creativity, Ms. Alyssa fosters a nurturing classroom where each child is supported with individualized goals and meaningful activities. As both an educator and a leader, she enriches our preschool team and is a valued part of the Mighty Sprouts family

Ms. Christine
Infant – Toddler – Primary Teacher
Ms. Christine has worn many hats at Mighty Sprouts, leading our Infant team for over a year, supporting our Primary classroom for more than two years, and now serving in a crucial support role across all rooms. Her versatility and wealth of knowledge make her an invaluable leader within our school.
As both an educator and a mother of three, Ms. Christine deeply understands the importance of secure attachments and nurturing care. She helps create classrooms that balance structure with creativity, ensuring every child feels safe, supported, and inspired to grow.

Ms. Tara
Infant Teacher
Ms. Tara first joined Mighty Sprouts as a Toddler Teacher and has spent the past two years leading our Infant classroom. With over three years of toddler experience, she brings both knowledge and a deep passion for nurturing our youngest learners.
Her genuine love for engaging with infants shines through each day, creating a warm and joyful environment. With her constant positivity and dedication, Ms. Tara is a true asset to our team and a bright presence in the classroom.

Ms. Isabel
Primary Teacher
Ms. Isabel began her journey with us in the Infant classroom and, over the past two years, has grown into a leadership role with our Preschool teaching team. As both an educator and a devoted mother, she brings a wealth of experience and a natural ability to create an atmosphere of warmth, security, and affection for children of all ages.
Since beginning her early childhood career in 2019, Ms. Isabel has nurtured and guided young minds with passion and care. The joy she finds in watching children grow and develop is evident in her daily interactions, making her a valued and trusted presence in our Mighty Sprouts family.

Ms. Franziska
Toddler Teacher
Ms. Franziska (“Ms. Franzi”) co-leads our toddler team, bringing over five years of early childhood experience. She has cared for children from infancy through preschool, previously serving as a Lead Preschool Teacher at a distinguished school. As both an educator and a mother of three, she has a deep understanding of children’s needs and the importance of building trust so every child feels safe, loved, and supported.
Outside the classroom, Ms. Franzi enjoys traveling back to her homeland in Germany, exploring nature, and making memories with her children. Her warmth and expertise make her a cherished part of the Mighty Sprouts family.

Ms. Maria
Toddler Teacher
Ms. Maria has been with Mighty Sprouts since our opening in 2019 and brings over 15 years of toddler teaching experience. After returning from maternity leave in 2023, she rejoined our toddler team with the same passion and dedication that make her such a valued educator.
With more than 8 years of leadership experience in toddler classrooms, Ms. Maria thrives in the lively energy of her students, using interactive, hands-on methods that spark curiosity and foster a lifelong love of learning. Her classroom is a space filled with warmth, color, and laughter — the perfect environment for energetic toddlers to grow and thrive.
In her spare time, she enjoys cleaning (a rare hobby!), shopping, traveling, and spending time with loved ones.
