Our Staff

Meet Our Staff!

Who's who at MCC

Robin Holland – Hi Everyone! I am going into my 28th year at MCC and can honestly say I’ve loved every minute of it. A big part of that is the incredible people I work with☺ I started off as a PreK and Nursery teacher. I then worked as Assistant Director, Director and now Owner/Director. I love being in the classroom and am always glad when I have a chance hang out with the kids☺. I graduated from Saint Anselm College with a BA in Psychology and from Southern Connecticut State University with a Masters in Psychology. In both of these programs I’ve taken numerous classes in early childhood, along with other classes in early childhood at Dean College in Franklin where I live. I have three great children, Nicky (25), Zacky (22) & Kacey (19). All three have attended MCC; Zack and Kacey have been working here for years after school and during her to work! Nick is now a full time teacher here at MCC. I am the luckiest mom around, I get to see my boy every day! I have a wonderful husband, Michael, who helps out a lot at school doing anything that needs doing and is our Webmaster. When not at school I can usually be found with my Kindle or watching my Yankees on TV☺ Though I’m a HUGE Pat’s fan!!!

Cindy Dowd –New school year, new school, what more can there be? For me a new position at MCC. After 29+ years in the classroom, this year I will spend my days full time as Robin’s assistant. How lucky I am to be able to see all the children every day!! My educational background includes a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood and a second in Physical Education. When not at school I live in Holliston with my husband Henry and our three year old cockapoo, Buddy (the best dog ever!) We have three grown children, Sam, Nick and Emily who all live in the area with our four grandchildren ranging in age from three to fourteen (all MCC students or grads). I am truly blessed and have much to look forward to and enjoy at home and school.

Cailyn Varkas - ‎ Hi everyone, my name is Cailyn Varkas, or as those under the age of 6 know me, Miss Cailyn. Wow- it is hard to believe that this will be my 10th year teaching at MCC! My professional background includes a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Curry College and a master’s degree in Early Childhood Education and Care from the American College of Education. For me, teaching has always been a lot like being a chef, sounds silly, I know, but hear me out; chefs are always adding new recipes to their recipe books, otherwise they’d be cooking the same thing over and over! I, as a teacher, love to find new and exciting curriculum and activities to share with my students as I learn and grow along side of them, those are my new “recipes!” In addition to my time in the classroom, I am also lucky enough to be PM assistant director. This leadership role has allowed me to gain a new respect and perspective for this spectacular field. Looking forward to the new school year at our brand new, absolutely beautiful facility!!!

Karen Caragliano – My name is Karen Caragliano, also known as "Mrs. C." I am happy to be returning to MCC for my 6th year. (WOW! Time flies!) I typically spend my time in Junior Kindergarten assisting Miss Cailyn, but I am lucky enough to sub in all of our classrooms so I get to know all of the children! I live in Norfolk with my husband John and our dog Brandy. We have 2 grown sons who are out of college and into the work force. We love to travel and cheer on our Boston sports teams. I look forward to a fun filled year ahead in our new school😊

Erin Grady – Hello! The 2019-2020school year will be my fifth at MCC. I am one of the Nursery II teachers. This age group is my absolute favorite because I love seeing the personalities beginning to form in each child and see how different everyone truly is. Social and emotional development are some of the biggest priorities in our classroom. For those of you who don’t know, my younger sister is Miss Tara who works with the Nursery I kids with our work mom (as we like to call her) Miss Trish!! We’re one big happy family in our classrooms! Our actual mom works at the Franklin YMCA and is known as Miss Pat-early childhood runs strong amongst the women in our family (our dad handles pensions and our dog Duncan just lays in the sun). When I am not at MCC you can usually find me watching movies, reading or spending time with friends while simultaneously photographing all of it because I love making memories. There are three things that our MCC families know about me:

1. I love Star Wars
2. I love super heroes
3. I love GLITTER!! Apologies in advance for any glitter that comes home!

I am looking forward to another year of growing and learning. Every year the fun increases! I am excited to welcome back old families and meet our new ones!

Trish Mileti – Hi! I have 11 years of experience at MCC. I can’t imagine teaching anywhere else and now, it’s even more exciting in our new state-of-the-art building. We’re a family here and I’m very proud of our special connection with the kids. If you’re new to MCC, welcome to the family! I’m looking forward to another great year teaching Nursery 1. I absolutely love teaching this age group. Admittedly, it’s the craziest job in the world but it’s also the most rewarding! After all these years, it still amazes me how independent and mature these kids become by the end of the school year. My goal is to create a fun and structured environment where the kids can thrive socially and academically. Most importantly, we want the kids to be happy here and to love their time at school. For those of you who don’t know me, I have raised two daughters in this town: Lauren, who is off to college this year and Maddy, who is a senior. I grew up in New Jersey where I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing from Kean University in Union, NJ. Prior to teaching, I was Public Relations Manager for a real estate company in New Jersey. I’m also a licensed real estate salesperson. Cheers to a fantastic school year!

Tara Grady- Hi, I’m Miss Tara! I am so thrilled to be starting in on my FOURTH year at MCC! I absolutely love working here and love getting to know all the children in this school. This year is an even more exciting school year because we are finally in our new building… YAY! I started out my career at MCC in the toddler room which I loved but absolutely love being with Miss Trish! When I am not at MCC I love to travel, I have a goal to visit all fifty states and one day see Europe. I also really love to take pictures with my camera, play disc golf, hike, and take my dog Duncan on walks. I love music and dancing, so we often have dance parties in the Big Hall. I look forward to a great year breaking in the new building, hanging out with familiar faces, and getting to know new faces as well!!!

Nick Holland - Hey everyone! I have been working here now for the last ten years on and off. I initially started out working only in the summers and after school while in high school, and then during the summers while back from college where I received my MBA in 2017. Last year was my first time working here full time, you probably saw me in each of the classrooms at one time or another! This year I will be with Nursery II kids in the morning and in the afternoon I will be with our pre-k friends alongside Cailyn. I am a big fan of all things Boston sports and I can’t wait to have a great year with you all!

Kacey Holland - Hi everyone! My name is Kacey and I am currently a sophomore at Saint Anselm College in New Hampshire! I am a double major in criminal justice and business and love it! It seems crazy to me that I have had the privilege to not only go to MCC but be able to now work alongside my mom. I always get so excited during any breaks and over the summer so that I can come back to work and see the kids! I can’t wait for this new year in our brand new building!

Jess Adams - Hello everyone! My name is Jess and this will be my second year here at MCC! I’m very happy to be teacher certified this year and will be taking another course this summer to further my knowledge and be able to use it within the class. I absolutely loved my first year at MCC and watching all the toddlers personalities grow and shine! I’ve always loved kids and it’s my passion to teach this age. I also have achondroplasia dwarfism, which just means I have shorter arms and shorter legs. This however doesn’t interfere with my daily life and I do not let it affect my ability to complete the tasks in front of me. I graduated from Norfolk County Agricultural High School and studied Veterinary Science. I love animals and have a yellow lab at home. I also have a love for floral design since my family owns a flower shop. I’m very excited for this next year at MCC and can’t wait to see to see all the toddlers grow and learn each day!

Ursula Roxin-Dixon –Hi Parents! I’ve been working with children for 20+ years. I was a special needs teacher and have worked with children with a wide range of disabilities. I love working with the infants and toddlers as well as the preschoolers. I have 2 sons, aged 18 and 22 who are quickly becoming young adults and making their way in the world.

Heidi Meehan - Hello everyone, my name is Heidi Meehan. I'm a mother of two wonderful littles, Paige (8) and Chance (4). I am a full time teacher in the infant room here at MCC. This is my second year working for MCC, entering it as a certified teacher and so excited about it. I love to read and go for walks in the woods/trails. I am also a huge animal lover! I look forward to meeting all the new families and catching up with all the returning ones. Let's have some fun this year friends!

Shawna Ray - Hi Everyone, My name is Shawna Ray and I've been here a year now since August. Since July 1,2019 I am now a Certified Teacher. I am a Teacher with the Older Toddlers. Can't wait to have a wonderful year with all your kids. I let the kids call me Miss Shawna. Working with kids has always been my passion. I've been watching kids since I was a teenager. I was a stay at home mom for over 13+ years and loved every moment. Before I had my own children I worked at a daycare. Now my kids are teenagers, CJ (19) who is 2nd year of College at Mass Art, Crystal (16) a Junior and Michelle (14) a Freshman both at Franklin High School in Franklin Mass. I've been married to my husband Chuck for 21 years. I have taught as a Sunday School Teacher at United Methodist Church, Girl Scout Leader, Cheer Mom and Assistant Cheer Coach, Volunteered for all 3 of my kids in school and out of school since they were little (on the PCC Board for about 5+ years) while my kids were in Middle School and sports. I still volunteer for my girls in High School. I love being outside, the beach, warm weather, doing arts and crafts, Disney Movies, taking pictures because making memories is very important to me. My time alone when I can get time is catching up on shows, going out with my friends and having fun dancing and listening to our favorite bands. Spending time with my family is my #1♡

Bonnie Corlito - Hi! I’m Miss Bonnie and I’m excited to join the team at MCC in July of 2019. I’ve been working in child care for 6 years in both public and private schools. I recently received my teaching certification. I love being with the kids every day and making a positive impact on their development and education. Prior to working in education I worked in cosmetology for 15 years. When I’m not at work you can find me spending time with my husband Rob, my two kids (Adam-17, Alyssa-15) and two dogs (Cooper and Gracie). I’m excited to begin new adventures at MCC!

Maureen Connolly - Hi Everyone! My name is Maureen Connolly and I am beyond excited to be joining the MCC team! I have over twenty years of teaching experience and received my BA degree from Boston College in Speech Communications. Many of the greatest lessons I learned throughout my life have been from my very young students who never fail to delight and enlighten me! My family and I love living in Medfield. In addition to teaching young children, my other passions are Cape Cod beaches, Boston sports teams and my "grand dog" named Sunny!

Lisa Pease – I am a seasoned PreSchool teacher of 22 years who believe each child’s potential is limitless with hands-on learning and exploration each day! I graduated from Mount Ida College with a BA in early Childhood Education and have taken numerous classes furthering my early childhood knowledge. I am the proud mother of 15 year old twins, Megan and Stephen, as well as an animal l over with a cat (Bella) and a dog (Pumpkin). I believe in helping others and do so by sponsoring a child in Zimbabwe, Africa where life is difficult. In my free time I enjoy being active outdoors, gardening, watching Boston sports with my favorite being the Pats, and going to my happy place, York, ME. I’m excited to be part of the MCC family and make a positive impact of each child’s educational experience!

Courtney Zahner - I am thrilled to be starting my first year at MCC. I have my Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education and have taught for 18 years in both public and private schools. I love teaching!! It allows me to be a kid at heart and to share that enthusiasm with my students. Working with young children, I enjoy creating a fun, engaging learning environment. There’s nothing like brining a children’s book to life with pretend play, making “magic” balloons in science and taste testing apples in math! At home, I am busy chasing my 7 year old son, Jake. He keeps my husband and I on out toes and certainly keeps us young.

Nicole Killilea - Hi Everyone! I’m so excited to be joining the MCC family! Some of you might recognize me from local town events. I’ve lived in Medfield for 13 years and I’m a mother to an 8 year old boy who currently attends Wheelock School. I usually spend my free time at my son’s sporting events, basketball, soccer and baseball or working part-time at my salon, NicoleCarol Hair Studio in Wellesley. I’m looking forward to a great time getting to know your children and staring this new chapter in my life!!

Katie Gentile - I am your child’s Teacher at MCC and am SO happy & beyond excited to be taking care of your babies! Thank you for the opportunity that I get to spend time with your littles.
A little about me! I am Walpole native, and have been involved in the community since childhood. I love Walpole and am blessed to raise my daughter in the same town I grew up in. I have worked in a home-based daycare setting with ages 3months-7 years, and in a daycare setting with primarily infants/toddlers. After graduating Walpole High School, I obtained my Bachelorette Degree from the University of Massachusetts in Boston with a major in Psychology & Sociology, and a concentration in Drug and Alcohol Abuse Studies. After taking a year off to work, I then went back to obtain a degree in Paralegal Studies from North Shore Community College. When the amazing opportunity arose for me to work in child care, I jumped at the chance, and it was the best decision! The bonds I get to develop with the children are SO special to me! Last year I finished my journey to become Director certified through Fisher College. For the past 20 years I have gained so much experience babysitting for families and now working in the childcare field. I have experience taking care of infants and toddlers as well as premature babies, - as my daughter was a preemie.
When I’m not working I am spending time with my 6-year-old daughter Aliza, and my golden retriever Holly. I love the outdoors and am a big environmental & safer products advocate. I love sports, being outdoors, the beach, skiing and boating. I look forward to meeting you and taking care of your littles!

Natasha Stevens- Hello Families! I am very excited to be joining the MCC family this year. Although this will be my first year teaching at MCC I have 25 years of teaching experience under my belt. Most recently, I taught at Holliston Christian Preschool for 11 years. In those years I wore many different hats including; Preschool teacher, Art teacher, Workshop teacher, Extended Day teacher, Children's Literature Teacher, Preschool Lead Teacher and Assistant to the Director. I am a graduate of Framingham State University where I earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology with a minor in Secondary Education. I am Early Education and Care Lead Teacher and Director 1 certified.
I love seeing smiling faces, hearing giggling laughter and being part of it all every single day. Helping children learn, discover, and grow emotionally as well as academically is incredibly rewarding to me. I live in Holliston with my two children Becca(18) and Brady(15), my husband Nick (better known as Mr. Stevens to all you Wheelock families!) my cat Ranger and my dog Mabel. I am fanatical about all animals big and small and would probably own a zoo if I could. Other than enjoying the wildlife in my backyard, I love spending time gardening, reading, going on hikes with Mabel, and having fun with friends and family. I look forward to many happy days getting to know everyone at MCC.

Kirsten Carlson - Hi, my name is Kirsten Carlson, I am a sophomore at Medfield High School and I am a proud MCC graduate! This is my first year at MCC and I am beyond excited to be back! I started working with kids while in 6th grade, assisting in the nursery at my church. For the past 2 years I have been babysitting for several families in Medfield and Millis I have always had a passion for working with kids, but over the past few years I’ve been thinking more about going into the field of education and pursuing a career working with kids. Outside of school and work, I am on a competition dance team, I volunteer as a leader at my church’s middle school youth group, and I love spending time with my family and dog. I can’t wait to have an amazing year and to get to know your kids better!

Liam O'Leary - Hi Everyone! I am starting my first year here at MCC and I’m so excited to join the team! I was a camp counselor at the Medfield Parks and Rec summer camp for four years, and I’m happy to bring that experience to the classroom. I am a 21 year old college student, former MCC student and a lifelong resident of Medfield. I have loved working with kids from a young age, and spent many holidays watching over my younger cousins. I’ll be helping out (mostly) in the Nursery II class, but I look forward to getting to know you all!

Mary Hanley - Hello! My name is Mary Hanley and this will be my first year teaching at MCC. I am beyond excited to be a part of this wonderful community and to experience many incredible memories with the children, families and staff. This past May, I graduated from Dean College with an Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education. There I spent most of my days in their preschool program learning and observing how the teachers ran their classrooms. I was then able to take what I learned and got to teach lessons of my own. I enjoyed every second of my schooling and cannot wait to apply it here at MCC! Outside of the classroom, you will find that I have a love for dance. I danced at Medway Dance Authority for 15 years and it has become a great passion of mine. Fun Fact about me, I have led and danced in two Disney parades in Magic Kingdom! I definitely plan to incorporate dancing into the classroom, because I believe it has such a positive impact in child development! Here’s to a great school year!

Judy Marston - Hi Everyone! I’m Miss Judy and I was so excited to join the MCC family in October of 2019 as a Toddler Teacher. I have been working in childcare for the past 10 years in both public and private schools. I am continuing my education to become Lead Teacher Certified. When I’m not at MCC, I am at home in Mansfield with my husband, Larry, and my daughter, Dylan (16) I cant wait to start a new year and get to know all of you and your little ones.

Morgan MacLean - Hello Everyone! My name is Morgan, or Miss Morgan, and this year will be my first full year at MCC! I am so excited to be a teacher in the infant classroom and to soon be certified! Ever since I joined MCC in January, I have fallen in love with the family-friendly atmosphere of our school and how welcoming the teachers, staff, and families are. All of us teachers develop such special bonds
with the students here and I will forever cherish the moments that I get to spend with them.
Before this year, I surely did not know that I would become a teacher. And wow, I am so grateful that I have this opportunity to learn and grow right along with the children. When I am not at MCC, I am at home with my boyfriend Bobby and his family. When I have free time, I like to go out running or hiking, bake, tale photos and read. I am also a big fan of arts and crafts, and I am happy to share that creativity with the children here. This year, I will be continuing to learn about early education and child development after work. My goal is to be educated on the subjects that matter most when it comes to teaching and interacting with children. I can’t wait to see new members and already existing members of the MCC family and start a great school year!

Sharon Maillet - II joined MCC’s family 27 years ago after receiving a degree in education from Framingham State College in 1993 and I have happily been here ever since. I returned to FSC a few years later to earn a master’s degree in Special Education. It was back to school again in 2001 to complete a Director’s course at Dean College. Now it’s just school at MCC, my favorite school of all, my home-away-from-home.
After years as a PreK and Nursery teacher, I became director and moved a few steps out of the classroom and into the office. I’m looking forward to opening our doors to greet all our friends, those returning to MCC and those joining us for the first time. I can’t wait to see the smiles and hear the laughter and heartwarming conversations as I peek and listen from my office window.
When I’m not at home at MCC, I’m at home in Hopedale where my husband and I cherish every moment with our sons, both MCC graduates. Josh is an eighth grader and Brandon is a kindergartner.

Jeanne Baker – I am delighted to be returning to Medfield Children’s Center for my 18th year. I am a graduate of the University of New Hampshire with a degree in Psychology and Education. Many years ago, my four children had the fortunate opportunity to begin their educational experience at MCC. This opened the door for me to continue my work as an educator. Prior to having children, I had the privilege of teaching Pre-K for 10 years at The Chestnut Hill School in Newton. Needless to say, when the opportunity to get back into the classroom became available, I was thrilled! I love the fact that no single day at work is the same. I learn from the children everyday and admire them for their endless energy, honesty, creativity, and eagerness to learn. I look forward to supporting each student in their natural development while fostering the love of learning. When I am not working my husband and I look forward to spending time with our children and extended family.

Sheila Sullivan - On sabbatical for the 2020-2021 school year

I began my journey here when our youngest son was in Pre-K with Mrs. Dowd. Our four children have since graduated from high school; three of them began their education at Medfield Children’s Center! This school year begins a new chapter in our MCC lives as we leave Pleasant Street and move into our brand-new facility on North Meadows Road. The children are as excited as we are about the change and the idea of a new space to create and play! Working as a preschool teacher is quite possible the best job in the world. Your children bring us so much laughter and curiosity which makes our time in the classroom so much fun!!

Kristin Henry - My name is Kristin Henry and this is my fourth year at Medfield Children’s Center. I grew up in Garden City, NY and attended University of Rhode Island. When I am not at MCC, I am here in Medfield with my husband, Brian, and two wonderful children, William(11) and Reidy(8). I am so thrilled to be back for another great year and look forward to watching your children learn and grow.