Our Staff
Ms. Gina, Director & Teacher
Hi, I'm Gina and I am so excited to be a part of your child's educational journey!
I have been working with children in Early Childhood Education for almost 10 years
and have loved every second!
I grew up here in Burbank, and after graduating from UCSB with a B.A. in Sociology,
I realized that my passion was working with children. I have since earned my
Preschool Teaching Credentials as well as my Director/Administrator units.
In early 2021, I decided to pursue my dream of opening my own preschool to share
with my community and that is when Toluca Playhouse Preschool was born! I am so
grateful for the opportunity to spend time with your amazing little ones and be a
part of their developmental journey!
In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my husband, our cat, George, our dog, Malek, & my family! I am also a huge Dodgers fan & enjoy going to lots of games!
I am dedicated to providing a fun & safe environment for your children and look forward to watching them grow & succeed.
Ms. Mel, Teacher
Hi, I’m Mel! I’m so excited to a part of the team at Toluca Playhouse Preschool!
I’ve been working with children for nearly 15 years, and it’s truly my passion.
Originally from Wilmington, Delaware (yes, I might be the only person you know
from there!), I earned my B.A. in History Education from the University of Delaware.
After college, I spent seven wonderful years in Chicago, working as a professional
nanny and comedy writer. It was during this time that I discovered just how much I
love supporting and nurturing children’s growth.
After a brief stop in New York City, I now call Hollywood home, where I live with my
husband, our ancient cat Beast, and a goofy chihuahua named Mr. Scoots. I’m
currently finishing my ECE Lead Teacher credentials at UCLA and occasionally taking online courses in Child Life Studies through UCSB.
When I’m not working, I love reading, dancing, trying every new Trader Joe’s snack, tackling (and sometimes failing at) DIY projects, and spending time with my friends and family.
I’m committed to creating a loving, safe environment where children can thrive creatively while developing strong social and emotional skills.
George, Class Pet
Hi, I'm George and I am a 4 year old cat who lives at Toluca Playhouse Preschool! I love lounging around outside and getting gentle pets from all the little ones, and their parents, too!
I am very calm and friendly, and when I've gotten enough love from my friends, I go back inside the house through my kitty door for a snack and a nap.
I love making new friends and I can't wait to meet you!
