• 🎉 Celebrating 15 Years of Small Wonders — thank you for 15 years of trust, laughter, and learning!
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Meet Our Leaders

STEPHANIE HUMPHREY

Executive Administrator

My name is Stephanie Humphrey, and I have been proud to be part of Small Wonders Discovery and Learning Center since 2020. I began as Administrator at our Columbiana location before moving into my current role as Human Resource Specialist. With more than 15 years of experience in early childhood education and leadership, I bring a strong understanding of both the classroom and administrative sides of the field, which helps me support our centers in meaningful ways.

In my role, I focus on strengthening staff development, building positive relationships, and fostering a workplace culture that reflects our values. I also assist with child and family referrals, connecting families with resources and support systems that help children succeed. I hold an Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education Administration and am currently pursuing my Bachelor’s degree to continue growing as a leader in the field.
I am dedicated to upholding the mission of Small Wonders and ensuring that each center provides safe, high-quality, and supportive learning environments. By living out our core values of Compassion, Dedication, Family, Fun, and Integrity, I strive to support and encourage our employees so they feel valued, empowered, and equipped to make a difference every day.

DANYELL SMITH

Education Coordinator

My name is Danyell. I have been employed with Small Wonders since October of 2016. I was hired as a floater in the infant classroom at our Greenford location. I have worked as an assistant and a lead infant teacher for 3+ years.  Through the TEACH scholarship that Small Wonders offers their employees, I achieved my Infant/Toddler CDA through the University of Cincinnati.  

In May 2020, I was promoted as a member of our Small Wonders D&LC Leadership Team and the Education Coordinator for all Small Wonders D&LC locations. I travel to each site and work hand in hand with our administrators and lead teachers on a daily basis. I am happy to have collaborated with our Columbiana and Salem staff to achieve their very first 5 Star Step Up to Quality ratings in 2021.

Danyell Smith
JuliaSchmidt

JULIA SCHMIDT

Human Resource Specialist

My Name is Julia Schmidt and I am so happy to be the new administrator for Small Wonders Discovery and Learning center in Leetonia! I have been with Small Wonders for almost two years now as a lead preschool teacher. During that time, I had the privilege to spend my day with so many wonderful little ones that will forever hold a special place in my heart! I have a Dual Degree in Elementary and Special Education, and spent about six years working for Robert Bycroft prior to Small Wonders. Throughout my years at Robert Bycroft, I learned a very valuable lesson that I will forever take with me. I was shown that no matter the struggles you face in life, there is always a reason to smile. Those little ones will always be my inspiration during good times and through the bad times. When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with my family, I have a fourteen year old daughter and a little yorkie that is like my child! I love coffee and really enjoy finding new little coffee shops to try out! I am excited to see where my future takes me with Small Wonders, and I look forward to meeting each new face that joins our Leetonia crew!

LAUREN MEREDITH

CACFP Specialist
Hi, my name is Lauren! I have been employed at Small Wonders since 2014. I started out as a floater and worked my way up to being the school age teacher, which I absolutely loved! In addition to working in a classroom, In 2020, I became the CACFP Specialist. I work with our CACFP and Kitchen Manager, Jeff, to ensure our food program is running efficiently throughout our centers. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my friends and family.
LAUREN-MEREDITH

JEFF SCHREIBER

CACFP And Kitchen Manager

DANIELLE BOOK

Center Operation & Engagement Coordinator
Dear all, I am writing to introduce myself. My name is Danielle Book, and I have been a valued member of the Small Wonders Discovery and Learning Center team since 2021. Initially, I served as the Administrator at our Salem location for three years, gaining valuable experience in center operations and management. During that time, I was able to build strong relationships with families and staff. I am now excited to transition into my current role as the Center Operation & Engagement Coordinator, where I will be focusing on enhancing the overall experience for both children and families. As a mother myself, I understand the importance of a nurturing and stimulating environment for young children. I have two wonderful children, a bright and energetic boy named Cameron, and a kind and compassionate girl named Skylar. I am happily married to my supportive and loving husband, Jason, with whom I cherish our 12 years together.
Outside of work, you can typically find me surrounded by my family, creating cherished memories through shared experiences and activities. My passion for early childhood education stems from my educational background. I am a proud graduate of Ashford University, where I earned a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood. My journey in this field began approximately 10 years ago when I started my career as a lead preschool teacher. This experience ignited a deep-seated desire to make a difference in the lives of young children. The rewarding feeling of shaping young minds and preparing them for their future has always been a driving force for me. I am truly looking forward to meeting each of you and getting to know your children. I am excited to be a part of the Small Wonders community and contribute to creating a positive and enriching experience for everyone.
Ashley

ASHLEY ELLIS

Enrollment Specialist

My name is Ashley Ellis, and I am the West Branch Administrator at Small Wonders Discovery & Learning Center. I graduated from Stark State College with an Associate Degree in Education. I am currently attending Kent State University to earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Development and Family Studies. My husband and I have been married for 15 years; we have four wonderful children. I have worked with all age groups of children in different settings over the past three years. When I am not working, I love spending time with my family & friends. My goal is to provide a positive learning environment for all my families while building strong and trusted relationships.

CANFIELD MCCTC
CANFIELD 2.0
COLUMBIANA
LEETONIA
SALEM
WEST BRANCH
YOUNGSTOWN