Pickerington Early Learning Center Welcomes New Leadership Team

New Pickerington Early Learning Center Leaders Share Passion for Helping Young Learners GROW, EXPLORE, and THRIVE

Every child's educational journey begins with a strong foundation, and at Pickerington Local Schools, that journey starts at the Pickerington Early Learning Center. As the District prepares for the new school year, it is welcoming two experienced leaders who share a passion for helping every young learner grow, explore, and thrive.

Whitney Simmons has been named Director of the Pickerington Early Learning Center, and Dr. Miranda Montoya will serve as Preschool Coordinator. Together, they bring complementary strengths in instructional leadership, inclusive practices, student supports, family engagement, and organizational leadership that will help guide the continued growth and success of the program.

The Pickerington Early Learning Center provides engaging, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate learning experiences that lay the groundwork for future academic success. As the program continues to evolve, Simmons and Montoya will work together to strengthen instructional practices, foster meaningful partnerships with families, and ensure every child is supported from their very first school experiences.

"Every child deserves a strong start to their educational journey, and the work happening at the Pickerington Early Learning Center plays an important role in helping children build the skills and confidence they'll carry throughout their lives,” said Superintendent of Pickerington Local Schools Dr. Charles Smialek. “Whitney and Miranda bring experience, knowledge, and a shared belief in supporting the whole child. Their leadership will help ensure our youngest learners have the opportunities, resources, and caring relationships they need to grow and thrive. We are excited for the next chapter at the Pickerington Early Learning Center and the positive impact they will have on our students, families, and staff."

Whitney Simmons brings more than 35 years of educational experience to her role as Director. Since beginning her career with Cincinnati Public Schools in 1988, she has served as a teacher, assistant principal, and principal in both Montessori and traditional public school settings. Throughout her career, Simmons has demonstrated a steadfast dedication to educational excellence, diversity, and building strong school communities.

As principal of Parker Woods Montessori, Simmons led the school to an Effective rating on the Ohio School Report Card while spearheading efforts to align Montessori instruction and materials with Ohio's Learning Standards. Her leadership is grounded in providing meaningful learning experiences that meet the needs of every child.

Simmons earned her bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from the College of Mount St. Joseph, her master's degree in Education from Xavier University, and her Montessori certification through Xavier University. She continues to pursue professional growth as an educational leader. 

"I'm truly honored to join the Pickerington Early Learning Center as its new Director and look forward to getting to know and serving our incredible students, families, and staff," said Director of Pickerington Early Learning Center Whitney Simmons. "Early childhood is a remarkable season of discovery, curiosity, and growth, and I feel privileged to be part of a school community where those moments are nurtured every day. I am excited to serve and partner with our dedicated educators, families, and the greater Pickerington community to create joyful, engaging learning experiences where every child feels welcomed, valued, supported, and inspired to reach their fullest potential. I look forward to building meaningful relationships, celebrating each child's unique journey, and continuing the strong tradition of excellence that makes Pickerington Early Learning Center such a special place to learn and grow."

Joining Simmons is Dr. Miranda Montoya, a veteran educator and lifelong learner whose career has centered on supporting children, families, and school communities through inclusive, relationship-centered practices.

Montoya brings extensive experience in early intervention, special education, mental health, behavior supports, Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), and Section 504 services. Throughout her career, she has focused on creating systems that support the whole child while ensuring students receive the early identification, intervention, and individualized supports they need to flourish academically, socially, emotionally, and behaviorally.

She holds a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education, a master's degree in Special Education, a Doctorate in Behavioral Health, a post-master's degree in School Leadership and Administration, and a post-doctoral certificate in Medical Family Therapy. She also completed the AASA Urban Superintendents Academy and just recently served as a fellow in the Ohio Education Policy Fellowship Program, reflecting her dedication to continuous learning and educational leadership.

Montoya is passionate about creating strong partnerships between schools and families and believes the early childhood years help shape confidence, communication, relationships, and a lifelong love of learning.

"I am honored to join the Fairfield County Education Service Center and the leadership team at the Pickerington Early Learning Center,” said Preschool Coordinator Dr. Miranda Montoya. “It's an exciting time for the Pickerington Early Learning Center as it continues to grow, and I am honored to help shape its future alongside an incredible team. Every child deserves a strong start, and I look forward to partnering with educators, families, and the Pickerington community to expand high-quality, inclusive early learning opportunities. Together, we will continue building a place where our youngest learners are supported, inspired, and empowered to thrive from their very first school experiences."

Simmons and Montoya bring complementary strengths that position the Pickerington Early Learning Center to continue providing high-quality learning experiences where every child feels welcomed, supported, and inspired to learn.

As the Pickerington Early Learning Center begins this exciting new chapter, families can look forward to a leadership team dedicated to creating a nurturing, inclusive environment where every child is encouraged to discover, grow, and develop a lifelong love of learning. Pickerington Local Schools is excited to welcome Whitney Simmons and Dr. Miranda Montoya and looks forward to the positive impact they will have on students, families, and the entire school community.