Kate CozzaniOwner
Kate has been in the education field for over twenty years. She started out as a high school varsity basketball and field hockey coach and elementary school teacher in Pittsburgh, PA. Kate worked in the Chicago Public schools for two years as a fourth grade reading and math specialist. While on maternity leave with her second son she started The Giving Tree home child care and her idea of a quality early childhood program was born. She completed her Masters degree at Concordia University in Early Childhood Education. In 2004 The Giving Tree, Early Learning Academy was opened in Forest Park. Kate has continued to work in the Early childhood field as an Adjunct faculty member at Triton College and as a Coach for other child care center owners. She now resides in Dupage County with her six children, dog Pippi and cat Survivor. Kate enjoys watching her children in their various sports and activities and tries to scrapbook when she can.
Hazel T. BellExecutive Director
Hazel was a student at Triton College when she first started with The Giving Tree. Hazel started in the infant room as a teacher and was promoted to Assistant Director, Director and then Executive Director. Hazel is an invaluable resource for the teachers and parents at The Giving Tree.
Ms. Porsha
Infant Teaher
Porsha is the 7th of eight children. That gave her the advantage of growing to love children. She has a son named Ja'shun who currently attends The Giving Tree. Porsha is currently enrolled at Triton College to pursue her degree in Psychology.
Patricia Reyes
Infant Teacher
I have been in the Early Childhood field for four years. I love teaching children of all ages. I grew up up in a big family, but I do not have any children of my own yet.
Ms Juana
Toddler II Teacher/Bus Driver
Ms. Juana has been with The Giving Tree since 2004! Ms. Juana has taught three of Ms. Kate's kids and they love coming back to see her. Ms. Juana also has a daughter named Estrella .
Ms. Estrella
Toddler II Teacher
Estrella is currently attending Morton College to achieve her Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education. She loves working with children of all ages.
Ms. Virginia
Preschool Teacher
Ms. Quintonele
Preschool Teacher
I am the mother of three children, one boy and twin girls. I havew been in the Early Childhood field since 2001.
Ms. Tiah
P.M. Director
Tiah has been with The Giving Tree for four years. She is great in whatever room we need her in. Her daughter also attends The Giving Tree.
Infant room Toddler I Toddler II Preschool Ms. Courtney Ms. Victoria Ms. Juana Ms.Quintenella
Ms. Patricia Ms. Nancy Ms. Estrella Ms. Porsha
Ms. Tiah Ms. Jessica Ms. Gabby
In the Kitchen: Ms. Marquita
Food Program Coordinator: Ms. Diane
