Meet Our Staff

Our Teachers

Amy Avello

Amy is a dedicated preschool aide with over 25 years of experience working with young children. Since 2021, she has been part of the team at Friendship Station Preschool, where she brings warmth, patience, and a deep understanding of early childhood development to her work each day. Currently pursuing her Associate’s Degree in Applied Science in Early Childhood Education, Amy is committed to growing both personally and professionally in the field she loves. She lives in Geneva with her husband, their two children, and their beloved family dog. Amy’s lifelong passion for nurturing young minds shines through in both her home and classroom.

Angie Carlson

I have been with Friendship Station since 2002. I teach both the 3-year-old and 4-year-old preschool programs. I received my Bachelors in Elementary Education from Aurora University, Illinois. and have worked with children of all ages. I have had the opportunity to work as the Camp Director with the park district camp programs and have taught several Super Saturday Holiday classes.

Nicole Cook

I am so excited to be part of the Friendship Station Preschool team. My daughters went through the preschool program at Friendship Station, and I could not be happier to have joined this wonderful staff! I have a Bachelors of Art in Elementary Education from Illinois State University and a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Concordia University. I have taught in the preschool and primary grades in Denver, Colorado and Streamwood, Illinois for 14 years in the public school setting, before stepping away from the classroom to be at home with my three children. I feel so fortunate to help each preschooler build the foundation for their future growth and success as they start their lifelong learning adventure.

Cindy Diemand

Cindy has been a proud resident of Geneva since 1993, and is married with two grown sons. Cindy has been with the Geneva Park District for over 15 years working with Friendship Station Preschool, the Kids Zone Before and After School Program, and summer camp programs. Cindy enjoys gardening and crafting in her spare time. She really loves teaching and working with children, and is very excited for another year with such a wonderful preschool program.

Tina Fedora

I have been a Geneva resident since 2002. I have three kids, and been married for almost 20 years. I’m grateful to be part of the excellent staff at Friendship Station Preschool. Two of my kids went through the Friendship Station program, and they loved it! Previously to joining Friendship Station Preschool, I was a PDO-Teacher at the Geneva Lutheran Church. I am a Preschool Aide and work with the Enrichment classes. It is fulfilling to see children learn and progress through their preschool and enrichment classes.

Theresa Ferris

Our family moved to Geneva in 2001. We have four amazing children…three sons and a daughter. I was a preschool aide at Hand in Hand Preschool for 14 years and am very excited to be joining this wonderful team. When I’m not working I enjoy spending time with my family, walking our dogs, volunteering at a therapeutic farm, and creating new crafts to do. I’m truly honored to be a part of your child’s learning journey.

Janeen Kloese

I have a Bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Aurora University. I have taught kindergarten in the public schools, 4/5’s preschool and served as the Assistant Director of Bethlehem Preschool in St. Charles. In 2010 I had my daughter and took a break to stay at home with her. For 8 years, I enjoyed being the Director of Children’s Ministry at my church. I truly enjoy working with preschool age children and am excited to be joining the team at Friendship Station! I grew up in Geneva and now live in St. Charles with my husband, daughter and our cat, Goose. In my free time, I enjoy reading, spending time with family and traveling to National Parks and Disney World!

Colleen Ortiz

I have taught Kindergarten and first grade in the public schools before staying home with 4 children. I have a degree in Early Childhood Education and masters in reading with an ELL endorsement. I have twin boys, a special needs son and a daughter all attending Geneva schools. My children also went through Friendship Station and I am so excited to be back here as teacher! I also have a lovely German Shephard named Stella. Prior to coming to Friendship Station, I taught prekindergarten at Learning Connections Preschool in St. Charles. I just love working with preschoolers and watching their curiosity and wonder. I am looking forward to working with you and your child this year.

Sherry Rogers

My name is Sherry Rogers and I am a Preschool Aide. I grew up in Glen Ellyn and attended the College of DuPage where I received my Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education. I am married to my husband Paul, and have lived in Geneva for many years. I truly enjoy teaching and working with children; before coming to Friendship Station I taught Preschool for over 20 years. When I’m not working I enjoy traveling, spending time in my yard, reading, and catching a Cubs game.

Our Administrative Staff

Beth Keen

I have a Bachelor of Science in Recreation Administration from Eastern Illinois University and have been proud to be part of the Geneva Park District team since 1996. While I oversee a variety of program areas, Friendship Station Preschool holds a special place in my heart. There’s nothing more rewarding than watching children light up with excitement as they learn and grow. I’m fortunate to work with an incredible team of dedicated, passionate teachers who truly love what they do. I also feel especially grateful that my own daughter was able to attend Friendship Station — it’s a place that means so much to me.

Michelle Gerard: Front Desk Assistant & Classroom Aide

Michelle joined Friendship Station in 2023 and loves being part of our busy, happy preschool family! In her dual role as Front Desk Assistant and Teacher’s Aide, she provides support to both staff and families, helping ensure that each day runs smoothly, and every child feels welcome. Before joining Friendship Station, Michelle built a strong background in youth programming and leadership. She served as an Assistant Program Director with the YMCA, a Program Coordinator with the Girl Scouts, and a youth sports coach for a variety of programs including golf, basketball, volleyball, and soccer. Michelle is a proud mother of twin daughters who are Friendship Station Graduates. Outside of work, you can find her out on the golf course, hiking a local trail, gardening, or spending time outdoors with her family.

Amanda Jorgensen: Front Desk Assistant & Classroom Aide

I joined the Friendship Station Preschool team in 2023 and absolutely love my role as both a front desk assistant and classroom aide. My husband and I have been Geneva residents for more than 20 years and feel so lucky to be able to raise our four children in such a wonderful community with an amazing park district. Our own children attended Friendship Station years ago, and it is such a joy to be back and part of this incredible team and preschool family once again!