About Us

Welcome to Seeds of Greatness Early Learning Center! We are a Christian-based early learning center located in the heart of New Castle, Delaware.

The Seeds of Greatness Early Learning Center was founded by Pastor Jerome L. Lewis of Seeds Church with the goal of nurturing children for a bright future. Our mission, "Grooming Children for Greatness," aligns with Seeds Church's mission to foster strong Christian families and cultivate leaders. We are dedicated to influencing children and families positively to advance the kingdom of God and spread His love to all we encounter. The vision came to fruition in May 2019 when the Seeds of Greatness Early Learning Center officially opened its doors.

our Staff

Mrs. Netty has been in the Early Childhood Education field for 15+ years. She began her career at Hodgson Vocational Technical High School with a concentration of Early Childhood Education, helping her to amass experience working with children ranging from infant to middle school age. Upon graduating from Hodgson, she completed the Training in Early Childhood Care Education certificate program (TECE 1 and 2) and went on to work at local childcare centers within the community. After high school, Netty went on to continue her education in Early Childhood Education, graduating from Wilmington University in 2016 with an Associate degree in Early Childhood Education (Birth-2nd grade). After receiving her degree, she began working in the public school system, teaching various elementary and middle school grade levels. Netty recently completed her bachelor’s degree in Education Studies with a concentration in Early Childhood Education and a certificate in trauma-informed approaches from Wilmington University.

In addition to her work in education, Netty serves as the Youth Pastor at Seeds Church, where she is passionate about mentoring and pouring into the next generation spiritually. Her heart for youth ministry and child development allows her to build meaningful connections with children and families both inside and outside of the classroom.

She has three children of her own and has been married for 10 years. Netty has always loved working with children and watching them grow and develop. She is committed to the mission of grooming children for greatness and cultivating strong relationships with the children, families, and staff at SOGELC. She is grateful to be able to use the gifts and talents God has placed on the inside of her here at SOGELC!

Mrs. Antoinette Lewis

Director

I have completed Training in Early Care and Education (TECE 1 and 2) certificate program from the State of Delaware. I also have other various training certificates from the Delaware Department of Services for Children, Youth and their Families.

I am a former co-owner of a childcare center in Salem, NJ. I have had the pleasure of serving as a foster parent to more than 175 children and exposing them to a loving Christian family and church for the past 12 years. Prior to dedicating my professional and personal life to shaping young minds and hearts, I worked in the hospitality industry for over 20 years.

I enjoy being involved at Seeds of Greatness Bible Church and serving on the Events Team. I love spending time with my husband, children, family and church family. I am a board member of New Castle County 7, Inc., a non-profit focused on improving the lives of foster children in Delaware. In my free time, I enjoy eating crabs and drinking Pepsi with my friends and family.

Mrs. Deborah Santos

Food Service Coordinator

Hello Everyone! My name is Mrs. Vernell Lester I have been at the E.L.C going on 4 years. I was a teacher assistant for 2 years and a position became open for a part-time afternoon receptionist and I accepted it! The Early Learning Center has been a blessing in my life and it a great feeling to get up every day and know I will be able to put a smile on the parent’s and their children’s faces and also our team here at the E.L.C. I have been married this year for 58 years to a wonderful husband and we are blessed to have three daughters, two son-in-loves, four grandsons, three granddaughters, and 10 great grandchildren.  My husband and I were ordained by our Pastor, Pastor Jerome Lewis as Elders at Seeds Church in 2016. We have been members for 14 years. I thank God for opening up this door so I can be a light and blessing to the Body of Christ. I owe it all to HIM! “To God Be the Glory.”

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Mrs. Vernell Lester

PM Receptionist

I have enjoyed being in the childcare field for 25+ years. At the age of 14 I began working as a Jr. counselor for inner city youth at Camp Josiah, a Christian camp in New York. During my last 2 years of high school as a co-op student, I worked at the YMCA Childcare Center in the infant room. After graduating from Newark High School in 97’ I received my certification as a Childcare Assistant Teacher through the Professional Career Development Institute. Shortly after, I also attended Ashworth College where I received my Teachers certificate for Childcare. 

 For 5yrs I owned & operated a small family daycare in my home. There I was overjoyed to care for children ranging from 6wks to 5yrs of age. 105 children received daycare, night-care or drop-in care. I can’t believe I even fit in a part time job at the Children’s Place, I can’t get enough of little people! I later worked as a Nanny & Secretary for a local nanny agency helping coworkers match with families to find care for their children. 

Years later as Administrative Assistant at a Childcare Center I assisted staff in completing all daily task. 

Additionally, as an Army wife & mother of 2 wonderful children that now look at me in my eyeballs,

I am learning to get in where I fit in & do my best, all with the help of the Lord! My ultimate goal working with young children is to turn every not so good situation into a better one, while showing that I genuinely care.

At COTLW my church, I have been the Praise team leader for years & worked with the children’s youth ministry as a teacher & youth choir director. 

 

Seeds has also been a Blessing to my family as well. We have enjoyed different events there geared towards children & couples. I love that we can grow here spiritually as a family and get built up so we can be all that God intended us to be. 

It’s truly a gift to be able to pass on the love while teaching our little pumpkins here at SOGELC!

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Mrs. Faith Lane

Toddler Teacher Assistant

I am from a small town in Nebraska. I have 5 sisters and 7 brothers and I was raised in a Pentecostal church where I was saved as a young child. I had numerous babysitting jobs growing up which introduced me to child care at a young age.

I have been married for 30 years and have two daughters. I first volunteered as a Sunday school teacher for the church I was attending and was asked to fill in at the church’s daycare. When my first daughter was born I decided to pursue a career in child care.

I have also volunteered at the school my children attended throughout their elementary years.


I have been in Early Childhood for over 25 years. I received my TECE1 certificate through Univ. of DE and TECE 2 from Del-Tech.


I enjoy teaching young children and believe in Proverbs 22:6 “Train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old he will not depart from it.”


I give thanks and honor to God for the opportunity that Seeds of Greatness ELC and the parents of Seeds of Greatness ELC have given me to teach these young minds from a Christian perspective.


I look forward to being a part of something great at Seeds of Greatness ELC.

Mrs. Rita Lewis

Lead Preschool Teacher

Hello! My name is Shanae Miller, and I’m from Delaware. I graduated from Delcastle Technical High School and hold a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. With experience as an Early Childhood Educator, I have had the pleasure of working with children across a variety of age groups, from infants to school-age kids.

I am a fun, gentle, loving, patient, and creative individual with a deep passion for nurturing young minds. I believe in the importance of making learning enjoyable and interactive, fostering a positive environment that encourages exploration and growth. My early experiences babysitting and assisting my grandmother in her home daycare further ignited my love for early childhood education.

In my free time, I enjoy engaging in play and arts and crafts activities with my son. Looking ahead, I aspire to further my education by obtaining a degree in Early Childhood Education, which will enhance my ability to support and inspire young learners.

Ms. Shanae Miller

Lead Infant Teacher

Hello, my name is Carolyn Figueroa and I have had the awesome opportunity to work at Seeds of Greatness Early Learning Center for five years. I am enjoying this employment experience tremendously and I am more than happy to come to work every day. I enjoy greeting the parents and children every morning, and I am learning so much and appreciate being able to expand my knowledge of the childcare industry.

This is the best post-retirement employment for me after working 36 years in Corporate America.

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Mrs. Carolyn Figueroa

AM Receptionist

My name is Michelle Allen. I worked in the field of Social Services for over 40 years. I worked as a program manager with individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities at agencies in PA. and DE.  In the community residential setting, my job responsibilities included completing required paperwork, preparing my team for annual state inspections, advocating for the individuals served, and developing relationships with stakeholders.  I interviewed staff, supervised staff and ensured that all job required trainings were completed in a timely manner.  In August 2020, I retired from Elwyn, Inc. in Media, PA.  

Within a years’ time, I wanted to continue to serve and became a staff member at Seeds of Greatness Early Learning Center in July 2021. I am a member of Seeds of Greatness Bible Church and I participate in the Hospitality and WIM Adult Dance ministries.  I enjoy traveling, dancing, baking, and cooking meals for my family and friends.  I love to serve and care for others.  I am also the proud mother of three daughters; Ayana, Alana and Aanika and I have two grandchildren; Aiden and Evie and two grand dogs, Naya and Brixton.

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Ms. Michelle Allen

Floater

Hello, my name is Shaunee McLaurin. My journey in working with children began during my high school years at William Penn, where I had the privilege of supporting children with disabilities. After graduating, I completed an internship at a home daycare, further deepening my passion for early childhood education.

In 2020, I transitioned to public schools as a paraprofessional, gaining valuable experience in various schools across the Colonial School District. In 2021, I found my professional home at Seeds of Greatness Early Learning Center, where I am thrilled to work as a Lead teacher with our one-year-olds. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to help nurture and support your children's growth and learning as they embark on their educational journeys.

Ms. Shaunee McLaurin

Lead Toddler Teacher

Hello, my name is Ms. Destini, and I am from New Castle, Delaware. I truly enjoy working with young children because they keep me connected to the latest generation, and I believe with all my heart that children are our future. I am CDA certified and currently attending Wilmington University to complete my bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education. I look forward to supporting your child’s growth, development, and learning throughout this school year!

Ms. Destini Norris

Lead Preschool Teacher

Hello I’m Kayla Deloatch, I’m from Delaware County, PA. I am the assistant teacher in our 1 year old Classroom (The Bear Room). Ever Since I was a young girl, I always wanted to teach and become a teacher. When I was 14, I started babysitting and then got my first job working with children at a kid’s spa at the age of 19. After that experience, I learned that I had a passion for children and wanted to make an impact on them. When I attended Harcum College in 2020, I got my first job as an Assistant teacher at a Montessori school and absolutely loved it! My goal is to build more confidence in myself and become a Lead Teacher one day! My interests are enjoying making people smile and laugh. I also like to draw.

Ms. Kayla Deloatch

Lead Toddler Teacher

Hi everyone! My name is Jawanna! I have 10 years of experience working in early childcare! All which took place in the residential setting. I have also worked with adolescents and adults with autism and other mental, emotional and behavioral challenges for 2 years! I’m a married mother of 3! I love arts and crafts, traveling, and potatoes! I’m super excited to bring all of that experience and passion to SOGELC!

Mrs. Jawanna Cheaton

Lead Preschool Teacher & Center Education Mentor

Hello and welcome! My name is Ms. Lyric, and I am the lead teacher in the Zebra Room. I have been teaching at SEEDS for three years, and it has been such a blessing to watch children learn, grow, and shine each day.

I truly believe that every child is special and unique. I strive to treat each child with the same love, care, and patience that I give my own five-year-old son. Teaching and motherhood have taught me so much about patience, understanding, and the importance of being a safe and caring person in a child’s life. For me, the classroom is more than a place to learn it is a family where every child should feel valued, loved, and supported.

My background also includes hands-on experience helping at my mother-in-law’s daycare, which helped deepen my love and understanding of early childhood education. Although I did not always picture myself becoming a teacher, being at SEEDS has shown me how much I truly enjoy working with children.

I recently graduated from Dawn Career Institute as a Certified Medical Assistant. Although I plan to continue building my career in the medical field, I also want to continue working as an early childhood educator while I further my education. My time in the classroom has inspired me to pursue a career in pediatrics, where I can combine my love for caring for children with my interest in the medical field.

A few fun facts about me: I am originally from San Diego, California. I love pizza, and of course, I’m a Starbucks girlie!

I look forward to welcoming you and your little one into our Zebra Room family. Together, we will create a safe and loving environment where every child can learn, grow, and thrive!

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Ms. Lyric Pipkin

Lead Preschool Teacher

Hello, my name is Brianna, also known as Ms. Bri. I am currently pursuing a degree in Nursing at Neumann University. As a seasonal staff member, I may not be present year-round, but I truly value the time I spend with the children and their families.

I have a deep passion for early childhood education and take pride in contributing to the foundational stages of a child's development. It brings me great joy to witness their growth over time and to be part of their journey. My goal is to support children not only through teaching but also in the medical field as I advance in my nursing career.  

I look forward to continuing to make a positive impact in both areas.

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Ms. Brianna Walker

Floater

Hello, my name is Ms. Monique! I am the Assistant Teacher in the Kangaroo Room. I have been teaching for four years! I attended Benedict College in Columbia, SC. My favorite things about teaching are watching my students grow and learn. Some fun facts about me are I am a mom of two girls, I love to cook and bake in my free time, my favorite drink is Dr. Pepper, and my favorite flower are sunflowers. I look forward instilling the word of God and cultivating the little ones here at SOGELC !

Ms. Monique James

Preschool Teacher Assistant

Hello! My name is Ms. Trinity, I am your child’s Pre-K3 teacher. I have been working with young children for over a year and absolutely love watching them grow, learn, and develop their unique personalities.

I believe that children learn best through hands-on experiences, play, repetition, and encouragement. My goal is to create a safe, loving, and fun classroom where every child feels valued and encouraged to explore the world around them.

A little about me: I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, fashion, and reading.

As a Christian educator, I’m grateful for the opportunity to share God’s love in the classroom each day. Depositing his word into their hearts and minds.

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Ms. Trinity Mayers

Lead Preschool Teacher

Hi everyone! My name is Ms. Imani, and I’m so excited to continue my journey here at Seeds of Greatness ELC! I have been a part of the Zebra Room for the past two years as an assistant teacher. During my time at the ELC, I have learned, grown, and gained so much experience working with our little ones. My journey in early childhood education began when I was just 16 years old through a high school program, and I quickly discovered how much joy and purpose working with children brought me.

I truly believe that teaching is about more than helping children learn—it’s about creating a safe, loving environment where they feel confident, supported, and excited to grow. I’m so thankful to be able to plant seeds in little hearts and watch them blossom throughout the year. 🌱💛 I can’t wait to make new memories, learn together, and have an amazing year in the Zebra Room!

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Ms. Imani Robinson

Preschool Teacher Assistant

Hey guys! My name is Cyana Jones and I am excited to bring my caregiver skills to SOGELC. I have enjoyed teaching Early Childhood for the last nine years and I look forward to prospering! I started off graduating from Howard High School of Technology in 2019. During those years of high school I became the face of Howard’s “iLead” program and worked amongst school age children which were 5-12 year olds, I was well respected in the field so I took it upon myself to become a teacher that each child could remember.

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In the summer of 2022 I gave birth to my handsome son, I also became certified by the state of Delaware to be an Early Childhood Teacher! I was thrilled to prevail after I brought my son into the world, about two years later I attended Wilmington University. I currently withhold a scholarship to further my education in Early Childhood with the ECIC program, I plan to receive my bachelor’s & become higher management in an Elementary setting.

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Ms. Cyana Jones

Lead Infant Teacher

Hello everyone, my name is Jasia Lewis and I am from Delaware. I am currently a floater here at SOGELC and have been for about a year now. I graduated from William Penn High School in 2023 and am currently an uprising junior at Delaware State University studying in public health. My journey working with kids started at just 8 years old with helping the younger kids at my daycare center and I have also volunteered a little later on at 12 years old to work with kids at summer camps. From this experience I realized that I love working with kids and being able to leave a positive lasting impression on them.

I have a strong belief that every child deserves to feel loved and secure in my care. As well as creating a learning environment where everyone can feel comfortable to make mistakes and learn from them. Not only do I teach and watch over your children but your children teach me important life lessons as well such as patience, communication & compassion. I try to weave biblical values such as kindness, generosity, and forgiveness into daily activities and conversations, supporting each child's growth not just in learning, but also in their spiritual and moral development.

I am so blessed to be able to be a part of such a positive environment here at the SOGELC as well as a part of shaping your children for greatness with the grace of God.

Ms. Jasia Lewis

Floater Teacher

Hello everyone,

My name is Mrs. Victoria Gladney. I have over 30 years of experience in the early childhood education field, gained through operating my own childcare facility. I have a passion for teaching children of all ages and have had the privilege of working with children who face various challenges—but I believe every child is special in their own way.

I’ve been married for 25 years and am blessed with three grown children, 18 grandchildren, and 7 great-grandchildren. In addition to my work in childcare, I have served as a pastor for the past 9 years and am also a certified Christian counselor.

I thank God for the opportunity to be a part of Seeds of Greatness Early Learning Center and to work alongside such dedicated staff and supportive parents.

Mrs. Victoria Gladney

Floater Teacher

Hello, my name is Miss Tayviarra. I am so grateful to be a part of SOGELC and to leave positive marks on your children, future leaders, who will take over the world with minds that inspire and hearts aligned with The Most High. I truly believe this is a beautiful place for them to begin their journey.

I previously attended Widener University for a semester, pursuing a degree in Social Work with the goal of helping troubled youth. I decided to take a break and am now exploring a career in teaching to see if it’s a path I’d like to pursue further. I do plan to return to school soon.

This is the third school where I’ve worked with children. The first two were sister schools in Pennsylvania, and my third is SOGELC. My passion in life is to grow, make a difference, and inspire. In fact, “passion” is part of my middle name, and I strive to carry that energy into everything I do.

With that being said, I hope to continue using the opportunities and knowledge I’ve gained to work with even more children throughout my career.

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Ms. Tayviarra Sudler

Preschool Teacher Assistant

Hello, my name is Saniya Maddrey, and I’m from Newark, DE. I am the Assistant Teacher in our 1-year-old Classroom (The Bear Room). I’ve always known I wanted to work with kids ever since I was 11 years old when my mom gave me my first younger sibling, and I took great care of her. Afterwards, I began volunteering at children’s events, and my first job was at a Teen Warehouse as a Youth Researcher, where I also worked with younger kids after school and led group activities during the summer. Those experiences showed me how passionate I am about working with children and helping them grow. I am currently enrolling at Delaware Technical Community College to study Early Childhood Education (Birth to Second Grade). My goal is to one day own my own daycare and continue making a positive impact on children’s lives.

Ms. Saniya Maddrey

Toddler Teacher Assistant

Hello, I am Kaylah Jordan. I am from Brooklyn, New York but I grew up in Wilmington, Delaware. I am the Floater Teacher for Infants/Toddlers. I’ve attended Hodgson Vocational Technical High School where I took Early Childhood Education as my career path. I have always been passionate about working with children since the age of 15 when I started working in summer camps for the summer youth program and then when I graduated, my career progressed as I became an assistant teacher at 17 and a lead teacher at the age of 19 years old at the Central YMCA. I love having the experience of connecting with many children and families, being a nurturing teacher and having the blessing of watching children grow and learn firsthand!

I am now currently pursuing my degree in General Health Studies with an interest in Diagnostic Medical Sonography in Gynecology. Although I am pursing my career in allied medical health my heart will always be in Early Chilhood Education. I enjoy being a mother to my 4-year-old son, hiking, long walks, and spending time with family and friends.I am so greatful for the opportunity here at SOGELC and can’t wait to experience new growth, continue building meaningful relationships and becoming a part of your child’s learning!

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Ms. Kaylah Jordan

Floater Teacher

Hello everyone! My name is Niyah, and I’m excited to be working in the Tiger Room as a Pre-K 3 teacher. I’m 21 years old and have been in the childcare field since I was 15. I became a licensed early childhood educator at the age of 18, starting my journey as an intern and working my way up to becoming a lead teacher. I’m currently continuing my education and working toward a degree in Special Education.

As a Christian educator, I believe teaching is more than just academics, it’s about nurturing the whole child. My purpose is to help children grow not only intellectually, but emotionally and socially as well. I’m passionate about helping children understand their emotions, build confidence, and learn how to work through obstacles in a healthy and supportive way.

Although I work with little minds, I believe they are capable of learning so much when given patience, love, and guidance. As a Pre-K 3 teacher, I strive to enhance each child’s knowledge through hands-on learning, encouragement, and positive reinforcement. My goal is to create a safe, nurturing environment where children feel valued, supported, and excited to learn, while preparing them for school and the world beyond the classroom.

Ms. Niyah Ramos

Lead Preschool Teacher

I am a dedicated and compassionate childcare professional with experience in the early childhood education field since 2022. I hold a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential as well as TECE Level 1 and Level 2 certifications. I am passionate about creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment where children can learn, grow, and feel supported.

Throughout my experience in childcare, I have developed strong skills in child development, classroom management, communication, and creating age-appropriate learning experiences. I believe every child is unique and deserves patience, encouragement, and opportunities to reach their full potential. I take pride in building positive relationships with children and their families while continuing to grow professionally within the early childhood education field.

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Ms. T'ajah Truesdale

Teacher Assistant