Meet The Team
Highly Qualified & Trained
The quality of the program is due to the quality of the staff. It is vital to attract staff that is experienced and knowledgeable in the field of early childhood.
Each classroom is staffed with a certified full-time teacher. Additional part-time staff float between cohorts to offer additional support or coverage where needed.
Step With Purpose strives to hire educators with the following qualifications:
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Lead Teachers serving children ages three and up - Must be licensed or be in process with the Department of Public Instruction with a Birth-Kindergarten License
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Lead Teachers serving children under age 3 – Must have a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field.
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Teachers - Must have or be in the process of obtaining an associate’s degree in Early Childhood Development or related field.
Each staff person must receive 30 hours of continuing education in child development or special education each year. This requirement is over and above what state licensing regulations require and is crucial in maintaining qualified teachers for the ongoing success of the Step With Purpose program.
All teachers must have some level of experience with young children and demonstrate a genuine interest in children. All staff members must have an initial physical, TB test, criminal records check, and a reference inquiry before employment begins.
Director & Founder
Mrs. Shannan Ramsay
Mrs. Ramsay is the founder, Director, and Head Teacher of Step with Purpose, LLC.
She holds a BA in Liberal Arts and has a Child Development Associate certification (CDA). She was a consultant in the childcare industry before starting her own group family daycare for many years. She has worn many hats, and has over 28 years of experience in childcare.
Mrs. Ramsay is committed to helping our students explore and learn in a hands-on and strength-based
learning environment. Nothing brings Mrs. Shannan more happiness than seeing the growth and success of
our students and being an effective part of her community.
Mrs. Ramsay holds a Teacher's certification with New Jersey Board of Education.
Assistant Director
Taylor Jimenez
Ms. Taylor has 3 years of experience in childcare as a teacher and a director.
Ms. Taylor graduated from Camden County college with an Associates in Criminal Justice in 2017, and
proudly served as girl scout troop leader for many years.
Ms. Taylor is dedicated to providing a multicultural &
nurturing educational experience to our students. She is preparing for graduate school for early childhood
education. Bilingual English/ Spanish.
"I am because we are."