<< Our Staff
Meet our exceptional team!
Our educators create a supportive and engaging environment where children can explore, learn, and grow.
With a passion for fostering creativity and confidence, they ensure every child feels valued and empowered to succeed.

Meet our exceptional team!
Our educators create a supportive and engaging environment where children can explore, learn, and grow. With a passion for fostering creativity and confidence, they ensure every child feels valued and empowered to succeed!
Our Staff >>

Miss Ashley Otto
Director

Miss Ashley Otto
Director

Miss Ashley Otto
Director
Hi, my name is Ashley Otto!
I’ve spent 17 years in education and hold a Master’s degree. I enjoy working with children and supporting their growth. Many of you may already know me from my time here as a substitute, which has been a great experience getting to know the staff and students.
I’m also a wife, mom of four, call McComb home and enjoy traveling.
I care about creating a positive, supportive environment where teachers feel valued and families feel confident in the care their children receive. I’m looking forward to building strong relationships with all of you and being part of LPLC.

Aryana Gonzalez
Director/Explorer’s Lead Teacher

Carly Kuhlman
Operations Specialist

Molly Smith
Pre-K Lead Teacher

Ashley Conkle
4 Year Old Preschool Lead Teacher

Brittan Vela
Lead 3s Preschool Teacher

Malorie Schroeder
Lead Climbers Teacher

Miss McKenna Flores
Lead Nursery Teacher

Aryana Gonzalez
Director/Explorer’s Lead Teacher

Aryana Gonzalez
Director/Explorer’s Lead Teacher
Hi there! My name is Aryana Gonzalez and I am the new lead teacher for the Explorers at LPLC!
A little bit about me… I was born and raised in Findlay, OH. I graduated from the University of Findlay where I majored in Early Childhood Education. While I was at UF I earned my Bachelor of Science degree. Not only am I a Findlay Trojan alum, but I also had the opportunity to be a part of the Findlay City School district staff! I taught 2nd grade for 3 years prior to taking on this new position! Although I enjoyed my experience with my 2nd graders, it was time I expand my knowledge and skills with a different age group! When this position became available I was very eager to join this team.
When I’m not teaching or in the classroom, I like to do a variety of activities. Some days I like to stay in and watch Disney+ or Netflix with a good blanket and snacks! Other days I like to be outside in the sun, going on a walk or going to different places! However, no matter the weather my all time favorite activity will always be shopping! Aside from my activities, most times I enjoy being with my family and friends. I am very excited to be starting this new journey! I look forward to meeting you and your littles soon! We will learn, grow, and succeed together as one!

Carly Kuhlman
Operations Specialist

Carly Kuhlman
Operations Specialist
Hi everyone! My name is Carly Kuhlman. I live in Ottawa with my husband, Jake.
My parents, Keith and Lisa Alt, are the owners of Little Panthers Learning Center. I am getting into the family business to help out my parents and learn as much as I can! I am very interested in the childcare world and extremely happy that my family and all of our amazing staff members are able to help out the community by providing a childcare center and preschool to McComb!
I do have my Bachelor’s degree in Nursing and am continuing to work as a registered nurse at St. Rita’s Medical Center while I work here as well. I am so excited to meet all of you and your kiddos!

Molly Smith
Pre-K Lead Teacher

Molly Smith
Pre-K Lead Teacher
Hi, my name is Molly Smith and I reside in Deshler, Ohio with my husband Clint and our four cats (Bella, Joyce, Fluff and Munchkin.)
I was born and raised in Deshler but moved to Findlay for a couple years and was brought back to be in Deshler when I met my husband. I have been teaching Pre-K for the last 5 years and working in childcare for the last 7 years! Back in 2020 I received my Child Development Associate in Preschool and I continue to expand my knowledge to childcare. I am also a Figure Skating Coach with Findlay Silver Blades Figure Skating Club that allows me to wear many different hats within the club. I am a Group Lesson Instructor, Synchronized Skating Coach, Private Coach, and Ice Show Director. I have been apart of this club since 2004 when I first joined as a young child, and grew up to finding the joy in coaching.
I guess you could say my passion is helping and caring for children and watching them accomplish their goals and achievements. Then when I’m not in the classroom or ice rink, you can catch me behind the camera capturing some memorable moments for the athletes at Patrick Henry and surrounding schools. One thing that I know is, how much a small community becomes your family. That is what excites me for working at the Little Panthers Learning Center in McComb. Community means everything and I can’t wait to be apart of this community by helping your children grow and learn as they come in through our front doors.

Ashley Conkle
4 Year Old Preschool Lead Teacher

Ashley Conkle
4 Year Old Preschool Lead Teacher
Hi all! My name is Ashley Conkle.
I am 36 years old. I was born and raised in Findlay which is where I currently reside with my children as well. I am a mother to 4 very active children. Brielle (13 years old), Cameron ( 5 years old), Dominic (2 years old), and Ezra (2 months old).
In my limited free time, I enjoy crocheting, reading a good book, and family movie night. I am so excited to be teaching Preschool 4’s! I have been teaching to some capacity for 18 years now. I have dedicated a huge part of my life and time to serving children. It is one of the most fulfilling parts of my life. I look forward to getting to know my students and building a strong relationship with each one of them at Little Panthers Learning Center.

Tara Durain
Assistant Teacher

Brittan Vela
Assistant Teacher

Brittan Vela
Assistant Teacher
Hi there, my name is Brittan or as the kids like to call me, Miss Britt.
I am 30 years old, have 3 kiddos of my own and have resided in McComb for the past 3 years. I have been working in early childhood education for a little over 10 years with a small 4 year break to venture into the medical field.
I am beyond grateful to be able to work with the kids here at LPLC and share my passion of teaching. I am so excited to be here!

Malorie Schroeder
Assistant Teacher

Malorie Schroeder
Assistant Teacher
Hi, my name is Malorie Schroeder.
Here’s a little bit about me! Following graduation from McComb High School I continued my academic and athletic career at Owens Community College in Perrysburg Ohio. After being apart of the 2022 Women’s Basketball National Championship team and graduating with an Associates degree in Arts and Education, I then transferred to Bowling Green State University. I am currently one year away from earning my Bachelors degree in Human Development and Family Studies.
I have worked in licensed childcare for almost three years. However, I am thrilled to be apart of the Little Panthers Learning Center team. Following graduation I will be joining the team full time. I simply can’t wait to begin this new journey in the community I call home. I’m excited to watch and serve our children in ways for them to grow and overcome developmental milestones!

Miss McKenna Flores
Lead Nursery Teacher

Miss McKenna Flores
Lead Nursery Teacher
Hello families! My name is McKenna Flores.
I was born and raised in Findlay Ohio, and still reside there with my husband Sage, daughter Alaina, and our dog Beans. I have a Bachelor’s in Social work, though my heart has always been in childcare. I worked in childcare for 7 years while I went to college, I was a paraprofessional for 3 years in the Hancock County school system, and then transitioned to a Behavior Tech for the last 2 years.
I am so excited to return to my favorite passion in caring for children. Watching them grow and learn is so rewarding!

Miss Sienna Otto
Teacher Assistant

McKenzy Siferd
Teacher Assistant

Miss Shaylyn Hall
Teacher Assistant

Ashley Rood
Teacher Assistant

Alexis Panning
After School Teacher

Miss Emma Recker
Teacher Assistant

Addisen Krassow
After School Teacher

Sophie Teegardin
Teacher Assistant

Tara Durain
Assistant Teacher

Tara Durain
Assistant Teacher

Miss Sophia Wallen
Teacher Assistant

Miss Ashlynn Stuber
Teacher Assistant
Hi! My name is Tara Durain.

Miss Sienna Otto
Teacher Assistant

Miss Sienna Otto
Teacher Assistant
Hi, I’m Miss Sienna!
I am the assistant teacher for preschool 3s room. I attend Bowling Green State University and major in business. Working at LPLC brings me a lot of joy and happiness. I love watching the children grow each and every day.

McKenzy Siferd
Teacher Assistant

McKenzy Siferd
Teacher Assistant
Hi, I’m McKenzy Siferd. Here’s a little bit about me!
I have lived in McComb my whole life, and am a 2025 McComb High School graduate. Throughout my school career I was a cheerleader. Growing up I have always enjoyed being around little kids from babysitting for family and friends, helping teach little ones at my schools mini cheer clinics, and helping coach for Upwards Cheer some of my high school career.
Participating in those activities made me realize my true passion for children, and loving to help and work with them, especially when I see them smile and notice the bonds being created between us.
My goal is to make a lasting impact on them, as much as they do on me. All of those things led me to where I am today with my position at LPLC! I look forward to caring for your children everyday, and hope to brighten their day!

Miss Shaylyn Hall
Teacher Assistant

Miss Shaylyn Hall
Teacher Assistant
Hi! I’m Shaylyn, and I love working with children and being part of their everyday learning and adventures.
I enjoy arts and crafts, games, and helping children build confidence while having fun.”

Ashley Rood
Teacher Assistant

Ashley Rood
Teacher Assistant
Hi all, my name is Ashley Rood.
I was born and raised right outside of McComb, where I currently reside with my 5 wonderful children. Kohl (17 years old), Sawyer (14 years old), Grace (9 years old), Barret (8 years old), and Magnolia (6 months old).
I have a great passion for helping children thrive. I have dedicated a huge part of my life serving children and families. I started my interest in childcare in high school. I then went on to be the breastfeeding peer for the Ohio WIC program for the last 13 years. Helping moms and their babies meet their feeding goals.
I’m very blessed to be back in childcare. I can’t wait to help your infants with meeting their milestones. In my free time, I love to cook and bake, make memories with my fiancé, and relax. I’m very excited to start my position as the nursery teacher with the Little Panthers Learning Center. I can’t wait to meet you and your little one!

Alexis Panning
Assistant Teacher

Alexis Panning
Assistant Teacher
Hi, I’m Miss Alexis, and I spend my afternoons at the preschool’s school-age room after school.
As a junior at McComb High School, I absolutely love being with the kids and seeing their smiles. Ever since I was little, I’ve dreamed of becoming a teacher, and working at LPLC has been such a wonderful opportunity to get closer to that dream.
I’m really looking forward to seeing and caring for your children every day!

Miss Emma Recker
Teacher Assistant

Miss Emma Recker
Teacher Assistant
Hi! My name is Emma Recker.
I’m a part-time teacher who enjoys working with children and creating a positive, fun environment each day. I’m outgoing, caring, and hardworking, and I love building connections with others.
In my free time, I enjoy spending time with friends and family, staying involved, and making people smile. I’m very excited to be part of such a supportive and welcoming team!

Addisen Krassow
After School Teacher

Addisen Krassow
After School Teacher
Hi! My name is Addisen Krassow!

Sophie Teegardin
Teacher Assistant

Sophie Teegardin
Teacher Assistant
Hi my name is Sophie or as the kids like to call me Miss Sophie!
I’m currently a first year student (going on second year) at Bowling Green State University studying Early Childhood Education. Working here has already opened up so many opportunities and I enjoy seeing these little faces everyday 🙂

Miss Sophia Wallen
Teacher Assistant

Miss Sophia Wallen
Teacher Assistant
Hi! My name is Sophia.
I graduated from Findlay High School and completed 2 years of Teaching Professions at Millstream Career Center. I absolutely love working with your kiddos and look forward to continue watching them grow!

Miss Ashlynn Stuber
Teacher Assistant

Miss Ashlynn Stuber
Teacher Assistant
Hello, Little Panthers families!
My name is Miss. Ashlynn, and I am so excited to join this wonderful community at the Little Panthers Learning Center. I am a graduate of Leipsic High School which is not that far from McComb, and am currently pursuing my degree in Early Childhood Education at Capital University in Columbus. I have a strong passion for teaching, and I truly look forward to building meaningful relationships with all of you and your little ones.
When I’m not in the classroom with your littles or in class myself, you can usually find me out for a walks, curled up with a good book, or enjoying some downtime. I can’t wait to get to know everyone!