A great teacher doesn’t just guide learning; they help open students to discover the beautiful world around us. Ms. Jennifer Wilson, a Children’s Discovery Center Preschool A lead teacher, is the embodiment of this ideal. Since 2024, this early childhood educator has poured heart and curiosity into each CDC’s Reggio Emilia lesson, and the impact she’s making is truly something special.

A Heart for Early Learning

Ms. Jen’s teaching journey began at Penta Career Center. After graduating from its Early Childhood Education Development Program in 2013, she followed her calling while working at a childcare center in Texas, before eventually finding her place at CDC.

Since joining our team, it’s clear Ms. Jen has felt connected to our staff, students and teaching philosophy, sharing that finding CDC has been like “finding my meaning,” and it’s easy to see why. Her classroom is filled with joyful discovery, thoughtful questions and those beautiful “aha” moments that make preschool so magical.

Making the Most of Each Day

When asked about her life motto, Ms. Jen shared something that perfectly captures the spirit of early childhood education: “No two days are the same.”

In a preschool classroom, that couldn’t be more true. One day might involve building elaborate block cities. Another might lead to an unexpected science experiment sparked by a child’s simple question. 

Ms. Jen’s students embrace this unbridled curiosity with a great big smile and open arms. For example, one of this Toledo-area preschool teacher’s favorite CDC moments reflects this Reggio Emilia-inspired mindset.

On a warmer winter day, Ms. Jen brought icicles into the classroom. The children watched in amazement as they began to drip. When asked why it was happening, the children eagerly explained that the ice was melting because of the warmer weather.

This fun activity doubled as a hands-on lesson that charged our students’ minds.

Instead of simply telling the children what was happening, Ms. Jen followed their curiosity. She invited them to observe, question and think. These are the moments when learning becomes meaningful and help children feel confident in their own discoveries.

A Nurturing Community

There’s a lot to love about working at CDC. Just ask our previously featured teachers! So, what does Ms. Jen enjoy most about our Toledo-area centers? It’s the nurturing, inviting environment for both children and staff that fosters a sense of belonging beyond the classroom walls.

She especially appreciates the partnership with families, stating, “They’re willing to collaborate on projects at home or bring in materials to expand their learning at the center as well.”

And even outside the classroom, this teacher loves to engage with her community. When she’s not inspiring preschoolers, Miss Jen enjoys spending time with her own children, attending local events, creating diamond art paintings and traveling.

That same sense of curiosity and creativity she brings to her classroom follows her into everyday life. It’s educators like Ms. Jen who make our centers shine, and we’re so grateful to have her on our team!

Let’s Grow Together!

From infant care and preschool education to our kindergarten Discovery School, Children’s Discovery Center is ready to help your child succeed. Contact us today to speak with our certified educators and schedule a visit to one of our five Toledo-area childcare centers.