Easterseals School for Limitless Learning - Meet the Staff

Dr. Janine Stewart, Program Director, DIR Floortime® Certified

Dr. Janine Stewart has been with Easterseals Florida since 2013 and currently serves as the Program Director for Easterseals School for Limitless Learning. With over 24 years of experience in early childhood education, she holds a Bachelor’s degree in Child and Family Development, a Master’s degree in Human Services, and a Doctorate in Christian Education.

Dr. Stewart is passionate about creating enriching environments for children of all abilities, believing that "Every child has the potential to learn and grow, no matter their abilities." Her leadership ensures the highest quality of care and education for our programs.

Outside of work, Dr. Stewart enjoys family time, crafting, singing with her church’s worship team, and relaxing with movies. Contact Dr. Janine Stewart at jstewart@fl.easterseals.com or call 813-236-5589

Brandi Murphy, Program Assistant
Brandi Murphy, Easterseals School for Limitless Learning Program Assistant, has been a part of the Easterseals team since 2012. With 14 years of experience in Early Childhood Education, she holds a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential and has served in various roles, including Infant Teacher and Toddler Teacher.
 

Brandi’s organizational skills, attention to detail, and dedication ensure our programs run smoothly. Passionate about creating supportive environments, she believes "every child can reach their goals regardless of abilities." Her commitment to nurturing others makes her an essential part of our team.

Outside of work, Brandi enjoys family time, game nights, and water parks. She lives by the quote, "Never let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game." – Babe Ruth.
Contact Brandi Murphy at bmurphy@fl.easterseals.com

Maureen Anderson, Toddler Teacher (1 - 2 year olds)
Maureen Anderson, our Toddler Teacher for 1- and 2-year-olds, has been an Early Childhood Educator for twenty-five years. She holds certifications in Childcare Center Operations, Director Credential, and Childcare Development Specialist.
 

Passionate about working with children of all abilities, Maureen creates a safe, inclusive, and engaging classroom where every child can thrive. Her lessons are designed to meet developmental milestones, and she carefully observes and supports each child’s individual growth.

Living by the motto “Today I will make a difference,” Maureen is a dedicated motivator, caregiver, and teacher. Outside of work, she enjoys gardening and nurturing growth in every form.

Shannon Jones, Pre-School Teacher
Shannon Jones, our Preschool Teacher for 3/4-year-olds, is a valued member of our team and has 11 years of experience. Shannon holds a National CDA and is VPK Certified.

Shannon's teaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that "no two children are the same, so education shouldn't be the same for all children." She strives to meet each child where they are in their educational journey and helps them blossom at their own pace.

Outside of teaching, Shannon enjoys photography, crafting, traveling, spending time with her family, and attending live music events. She finds inspiration in the quote, "A good teacher can inspire hope, ignite the imagination, and instill a love of learning."

Yesenia Jaipersad, Assistant Teacher, Early Learning (1-2 year olds)
Yesenia Jaipersad has been in early childhood education for 17 years as a Lead Teacher and Teacher Assistant. In addition to her years of experience in the area, she’s simultaneously taken the required training and credentialing mandated statewide to offer her best professionally in all the positions she’s held. Yesenia has taken ESOL (English as a Second Language) classes to become fully bilingual and has also been an ESOL Teacher Assistant off-and-on in her past employment. She was also a lead teacher in a Family Literacy/Migrant EvenStart Program in Hillsborough County Schools for 17 years. She’s passionate about the preschool environment and its importance in leading children to success socially and educationally.

Outside of her professional life, she enjoys being with her family. She loves music, food, adventures, and getting to know new places and experiences. Her hobbies are decorating, crafts, and gardening. Yesenia's motto is “Teachers who love teaching, teach children to love learning."

Porsha Grier, Lower Elementary Teacher (K-2)
Porsha Grier is a dedicated Lower Elementary Teacher for Kindergarten through 2nd grade with 25 years of experience in education. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary and Special Education and a Master of Science in Educational Leadership. With her wealth of knowledge and passion for teaching, Porsha creates a welcoming and engaging learning environment where every child can succeed. She is guided by the belief that "every child deserves a champion, an adult who will never give up on them." Outside of the classroom, Porsha enjoys spending time with her family and exploring new foods as a true foodie.

Shondra Darius, VPK Teacher
Shondra Darius is a VPK teacher at the Easterseals School for Limitless Learning. She has worked in Early Childhood Education for more than 16 years in various roles, including as a mentor teacher, VPK teacher, preschool teacher, and toddler teacher. She has a National CDA and is VPK-certified. She is passionate about education and helping children reach their greatest potential and believes that when parents, teachers, and students work together in partnership, it leads to the success of the children and creates harmony. Her teaching philosophy comes from Whitney Houston:" I believe the children are our future, teach them well and let them lead the way. Show them all the beauty they possess inside. Give them a sense of pride to make it easier. Let the children's laughter remind us how we used to be”.

Ovutside of work, Shondra enjoys art, traveling, time with friends, listening to music, spending time with her family, and enjoying all the things that make life an adventure.

Natasha Fitzgerald, Early Childhood Educator (Preschool, Early Learning)
Natasha Fitzgerald is a Preschool Educator in the Early Learning program with 17 years of experience in Early Childhood Education. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Human Services and Applied Psychology, combining her knowledge and passion to create a supportive, engaging classroom environment. She is guided by the belief that “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” Natasha is dedicated to helping each child grow, learn, and thrive during their earliest years.

Outside of the classroom, Natasha enjoys eating out and going for rides on her Harley, finding joy and balance in her free time.

Jaydei Moates, Assistant Teacher (Floater)
Jaydei Moates serves as an Assistant Teacher (Floater) at Easterseals School for Limitless Learning. She brings 6 years of experience in Early Childhood Education and has completed her DCF 45 hours of training. In her role, Jaydei provides flexible support across classrooms, ensuring children receive the care and guidance they need throughout their daily routines. She believes in the saying, “Children are not things to be molded, but are people to be unfolded,” and is committed to helping every child grow at their own pace.

Outside of work, Jaydei enjoys spending time with her family and her dog, cherishing the simple moments that bring joy and balance to her life.

Nina Stokes, Program Support Coordinator
Nina Stokes brings a wealth of experience in education and community engagement. She holds a Master’s in Science Education and an Education Specialist degree in Curriculum and Instruction. With a background in teaching and educational coordination, she has developed and presented instructional materials for distinct audiences.

At Easterseals School for Limitless Learning, Nina manages marketing efforts, including print and social media, to support enrollment and brand awareness. She actively promotes the school through community partnerships, vendor events, and outreach efforts to increase visibility. Nina also enjoys spending time in classrooms, observing, and offering support where needed.

Outside of work, Nina enjoys spending time with family, running, photography, traveling, and reading.
Contact Nina Stokes at: nstokes@fl.easterseals.com