Our Staff
Karyn Leino
Administrator
lfoj@zionashland.comMs. Karyn has been the administrator at Little Friends of Jesus Child Care Center since April 2006. Ms. Karyn started in the childcare profession in 1995. She owned a home licensed daycare for over 10 years. Ms. Karyn is responsible for the business portion of the center's operations, yet enjoys being a float teacher for all age groups. The best part of her job is spending time with the children. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to contact her by phone or email.
Taylor Janes
Director & Lead School-Age Teacher
Ms. Taylor was born and raised in Ashland. She graduated from Fox Valley Technical college with an Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education. Ever since she was little she has always loved children and always knew she would work with them as she got older. Ms. Taylor is married to Jesse and they have three adorable sons.
Molly Westerman
Lead Infant/Toddler Teacher
Hello, my name is Molly Westerman “Ms. Molly”
As the Lead Infant/Toddler Teacher and a mother myself, I am aware how much every parent wants the caring, loving, nurturing environment for their children, especially when it comes to a childcare facility. I am excited about both the challenges and rewards of being a part of your child’s future, and I am looking forward to working with all the parents on establishing positive relationships. Trust, respect, and understanding are vital parts of these relationships; when parents and caregivers are on the same page, everyone benefits – especially the children. I am a strong proponent of an open-door policy and invite each and every parent to come talk to me about their concerns and desires for their children.
Gracie Lazorik
Learner Room Lead Teacher
Hi! I’m Ms. Gracie! I started at Little Friends in June of 2020 and became lead learner teacher in September of 2021. I even went to Little Friends from age 3 to age 11! I had such an amazing experience as a child, and I want that for the children of LFOJ! I want them to have a place away from home where they feel safe, loved, and important. My main goal is to make sure that all of the children, no matter what room they are in, are cared for.
Tressa Groom
Teacher
Tressa has enjoyed working with kids for years, including as a nanny and camp counselor. She attended the University of Wisconsin Eau Claire before moving to Ashland. Tressa lives with her husband and two dogs, and they are expecting their first child in June! She enjoys singing, playing guitar and loves working with all the age groups at LFOJ!
Jordan Piff
Teacher
Ms. Jordan is a full-time teacher that floats amongst all the room.
Bio Coming Soon!
Karla Piff
Assistant Teacher
Ms. Karla is Back! Just for the summer ~ We will take it!!!
Ms. Karla will be floating in all the rooms as an Assistant Teacher!
Welcome Back Ms. Karla!
Laura Westerlund
Assistant Teacher
Greetings! I’m Laura Westerlund, born and raised in Ashland. I’m back! I was a previous Lead Learner Teacher from 2011-2017, and I’m so excited to be with the kiddos again. I have a passion for early childhood education and advocating for those who cannot yet speak up for themselves. I attained a associates degree from Northwoods Technical College in 2017 for Early Childhood Education, and Little Friends helped me get there! Currently I work full time at Ashland County Public Health as a service coordinator for Birth to Three for Ashland/Bayfield counties. In my free time I love to be outside, spending time with family, friends and the slew of animals my family and I have
Kim Hanson
Cook
Ms. Kim is our Cook at LFOJ.