HPS Teaching team — 2025-2026
Each of our classrooms has a lead teacher working alongside an assistant teacher to foster age and developmentally appropriate learning environments and experiences for the children.
Caterpillar Blue
Ms. Latasha Johnson
Lead Teacher
Ms. Latasha holds a RBT (Registered Behavioral Technician) Certification and an Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Education from Northern Virginia Community College. She has several years of experience working with 2-3-year-olds. Latasha's student interactions highlight her passion for providing young learners the opportunity to build confidence and develop pertinent problem-solving skills.
Ms. Brenda Cowles
Assistant Teacher
Ms. Brenda holds a Child Development Associate Credential with an endorsement in preschool education. Brenda's flexibility and warm energy is greatly appreciated by children, families, and staff alike.
She is affectionately known to many of the children as the "friendly playground monster", where she plays games of chase with all of the classes.
Caterpillar Purple
Ms. Danielle Eldridge
Lead Teacher
Ms. Danielle holds a Bachelor's in Human Ecology with a concentration in Child Development from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. She has worked with young children from toddlers through pre-k and especially loves the energy and curiosity of two- and three-year-olds.
Danielle is described as someone who thinks outside of the box and is always committed to learning something new in the field. She is respected among her colleagues for her nurturing personality, dedication to students and families, and enthusiasm for teaching young children.
Ms. Tia Williams
Assistant Teacher
Ms. Tia joined the Hill Preschool team recently and brings a gentle, supportive energy to the classroom.
She is currently working toward her Child Development Associate (CDA) credential and has several years of experience as a bus attendant for DC and Maryland public schools, as well as a child care assistant. Her commitment to nurturing young children and helping them feel safe, seen, and encouraged shines through in her daily work.
Caterpillar Green
Ms. Andrea Howe
Lead Teacher
Ms. Andrea is a Washington, DC native and a proud mother to her son, Kaden, who plays basketball, as well as a puppy named Prince. She currently holds a CDA and has earned over 98 credits toward her Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education. With over 25 years of experience working with young children, Andrea has developed a deep passion for early childhood education.
Her journey began at the age of 14 when she helped her aunt, who owned a home daycare. Assisting with feeding and reading to the children sparked her lifelong love for childcare. Throughout high school, Andrea sought out jobs in the field, allowing her to build a career around her passion. She is now pursuing her Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education and remains dedicated to nurturing and educating young children.
Andrea’s favorite children's book is Are You My Mother? by P.D. Eastman, a story that has always held a special place in her heart.
Ms. Nisha Murphy
Assistant Teacher
Ms. Nisha holds a Child Development Associate Credential with an endorsement in preschool education. She has worked with two- and three-year-olds for the past 10 years. Ms. Nisha loves engaging young children in socio-dramatic play and encouraging their creativity and imagination.
Ms. Nisha enjoys art and music. She loves showcasing her creativity by bringing young learners’ favorite books to life (such as Dear Zoo by Rod Campbell and Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? by Eric Carle).
She is known throughout the school for her calm demeanor and endless patience.
Bumblebees
Ms. Brittany Johnson
Bumblebee Lead Teacher
Ms. Brittany is a passionate early childhood educator dedicated to supporting young children’s growth and learning. She holds an associate’s degree in Business and a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education with a concentration in Communications from Walden University.
With more than 10 years of experience in the field and a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, Brittany brings both skill and heart to her work. She has a strong understanding of child development and effective teaching practices, and she is especially enthusiastic about nurturing creativity, inspiring exploration, and creating enriching learning experiences that encourage each child’s growth and self-expression.
Typhanie Carr
Bumblebee Lead Teacher
Ms. Typhanie is a passionate early childhood educator dedicated to supporting young children’s growth and learning. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education with a concentration in Child Development and Family Relations and is currently pursuing her Master’s degree in Instruction and Curriculum with a concentration in Education Policy and Leadership.
With 14 years of experience in the field, Typhanie brings both skill and heart to her work. She has a strong understanding of child development and effective teaching practices and is especially enthusiastic about nurturing creativity, inspiring exploration, and creating enriching learning experiences. Her approach encourages each child’s growth, curiosity, and self-expression in a supportive and engaging environment.
Ms. Charlett Hodgson
Assistant Teacher
Ms. Charlett holds a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential with an endorsement in preschool education and has been a valued member of Hill Preschool for over 15 years. As a native of Nicaragua, Charlett brings her love of her language and culture into the classroom, enriching the students’ learning experience and fostering an appreciation for diversity.
She is highly energetic and thrives in the fast-paced environment of the classroom. Her enthusiasm, warmth, and dedication create a nurturing and engaging space where children feel supported, encouraged, and inspired to explore, learn, and grow.
Grasshoppers
Ms. Jill Barefoot
Curriculum Coordinator &
Grasshopper Teacher
Ms. Jill holds a Bachelor's Degree in Anthropology and Sociology from Florida International University and a Child Development Associate Credential with an endorsement in preschool education. Jill's teaching style is greatly influenced by the Reggio Emilia philosophy. She loves integrating elements of nature and real world materials into the classroom! Jill also has a passion for providing young children with opportunities to explore their creativity and uses a part of her classroom as an atelier.
As our school Curriculum Coordinator, Jill is passionate about providing resources to the teachers, creating community connections, and developing relationships with local cultural institutions and educational specialists. We are fortunate to have her in this role!
Mr. Micah Buchanan
Assistant Teacher
Mr. Micah is a sophomore at Morehouse College with a strong background in leadership. His experiences include serving as captain of the football team and working as a student ambassador. As a middle child, he is naturally collaborative, sociable, and a strong team player. Outside of academics and athletics, Mr. Micah enjoys coding, working out, and volunteering.
His recent experiences serving meals to families, working as an aftercare assistant at Yu Ying Public Charter School, and supporting the Grasshopper Summer Camp 2025 program—have prepared him well for this role. In addition, Mr. Micah is currently pursuing his Child Development Associate Credential with a preschool endorsement to further strengthen his skills and knowledge as the Assistant Grasshopper Teacher. We look forward to the positive energy and support he will bring to the classroom.
Multi-age teachers
Kailah Jefferson
Ms. Kailah has worked closely with children of all ages, from infants to high school students, providing care, guidance, and support at every stage of development. Her primary goal is to use education, empathy, and compassion to make a positive and lasting impact on the lives of children and the broader community.
A graduate of Morgan State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Applied Liberal Arts, Ms. Kailah is deeply committed to nurturing growth, supporting others with care and patience, and creating safe, inclusive, and empowering environments. She strives to ensure that every individual especially children has the opportunity to learn, thrive, and feel valued. With her thoughtful approach and dedication,
Davonna Smith
Ms. Davonna is a devoted mother of two with a deep passion for nurturing and educating children. She graduated from the University of the District of Columbia with an Associate's degree in Early Childhood Education and has been working with children for over 10 years.
Throughout her career, she has held various roles, including director, in-home educator, behavioral technician, teacher, teacher assistant, and school administrator. Her experience spans working with children from newborns to 15 years old, giving her a well-rounded understanding of child development.
Davonna strives to create a positive, engaging, and loving environment where children can thrive both academically and socially. She is excited to continue supporting children and families in their growth and development this year!
