Meet the Teachers
Leah Coughlin
Owner | Director | Certified Teacher | Mama
Leah is a mother to a 9 year old boy named Daniel. She is a photographer and worked as a classroom helper at Mansfield Children's School for 3 years while her son attended the preschool. She also attended the preschool herself as a child. Leah has put a lot of work and tons of heart into making the Mansfield Little School new again and an amazing place for children to learn and grow.
Danielle Dee
Director | Certified Teacher
I started my career in Early Education in 2012 as an Assistant and worked my way up to become Director II certified through EEC. I knew I wanted to work with kids coming from a big family of 4 siblings and 9 nieces and nephews. I have a love for Preschool age where I worked as a teacher for ten years. Seeing the progress of children throughout the year is truly amazing, being able to teach a child a skill they will have for the entirety of their life is so rewarding. I have enjoyed taking courses over the years that all range from management, curriculum and special needs. I am always eager to learn anything new that obtains to Early Childhood. I’m excited to begin my journey at Mansfield Little School.
Carla Littlejohn-Booker
Office Manager | Certified Teacher
I started my career in early childhood Education running a FCC out of my home for 7 years. I then worked in the public schools as a special education bus driver, school bus instructor, safety trainer and transportation coordinator for the town until I retired in 2023. My proudest achievement was raising my two sons. I have now been blessed with four remarkable grandchildren. I love working with children just to see their eyes light up when they discover something new. The best part about my job at MLS is knowing we have a helping hand in molding the future.I would love the opportunity to speak with you about your child’s needs. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to speak with me in person or via email, Carla.LittleSchool@gmail.com.
Susie DesJardins
Co-Director | Teacher
Sue has an associate's degree in early childhood education and has completed coursework in Preschool Administration for certification as a Director of a Preschool.
Susie began her 25-year teaching career at Mansfield Children's School. Susie developed the "Love Bunch" enrichment program and happily has taught with her team for all these years. Susie is more than thrilled that the preschool has re-opened and it's fuller of love and life than it ever was before.
Dana Niosi
Certified Teacher
Graduated from URI with a BS in Human Development and Family studies. After graduating I took on several different jobs in Human Resources and also worked at Curry College in the admissions department for five years. I am a mom of three daughters all who are Mansfield Children’s School alumni. I started working part time at MCS when my youngest entered elementary school. I am so excited to be back at Mansfield Little School!
Patricia Harwood
Certified Teacher
After completing the necessary coursework, I first began working with children in a daycare setting (which changed my life for the better). I had been working as a secretary previously which I determined was not for me. I eventually went back to school full time to obtain a Bachelor’s degree in elementary education (k to 3). Upon graduation, I worked as a long-term substitute in a first grade for a full year. The next year I subbed in a third grade classroom for the first half of the year. Next, I was a stay-at-home mom raising my 2 amazing children for a few years.
I eventually began working part time at Mansfield Children’s School for about 13 years. I love working with children, especially carrying on conversations with them. They brighten my days. I am thrilled to be working part time at Mansfield Little School with Leah and my amazing co-workers.
Kimberly Elias
Certified Teacher
As a dedicated mother of three wonderful children, I have had the privilege of being employed at an esteemed local law firm for the past seven years while simultaneously pursuing my passion for child development through the completion of a master's degree. It brings me immense joy to share my knowledge and expertise in this field and the opportunity to witness my daughter thrive.
