Lincoln Park Daycare & Preschool

Jessica Leonard, Director

Hello, I’m Jessica! I grew up in Central Illinois and moved to Chicago to attend the University of Illinois at Chicago, where I earned my bachelor’s degree in Psychology.

I started at LGTH (West Loop) in 2014 as an Assistant Preschool Teacher, later transitioning into a Lead Infant Teacher role. I spent five years strengthening our infant program and supporting my peers in developing best practices for infant care.

I stepped into a Director role in early 2020 and moved to our Lincoln Park location in 2021. I love the strong, supportive community that surrounds our schools and feel grateful for the lasting connections I’ve built with families and teachers. As a director, my goal is to inspire educators, support their passion for teaching, and ensure our students continue to grow and thrive. When I’m not at LGTH I love traveling & tackling DIY projects.

Ryan Allen, Senior Managing Director

My name is Ryan. I received a Child Development degree from Ellis University in 2009. I went back to school the summer of 2015 to achieve my Director Credentials from Harold Washington. I began my career in daycare back in 2005 and have experience working with every age group. I moved into management in 2015 and opened, directed, and managed 7 locations with my previous company. As a Senior Managing Director, I believe that communication with staff is key in creating a positive and effective workplace. I consider myself to be an open, honest, and fair leader. I also believe that a strong, personal, and open relationship with parents is vital for the success of your child, the staff, and the center. Outside of work, I enjoy traveling as far and often as possible. My friends and I take full advantage of Chicago summers, enjoying concerts, street fests, and my favorite restaurant, The Dock at Montrose.

Betsy Taylor, Enrollment Administrator

Hello! My name is Betsy Taylor. I have a Bachelor’s Degree from Stanford University in Palo Alto, California. During my sophomore year at Stanford, I studied abroad at Oxford University with the Stanford-in-Oxford program and fell in love with the UK! After graduating, I lived in London for many years. The last place I lived in London was in Borough on the South Bank which was a stones-throw from Borough Market, the National Theatre and the Tate Modern! I have been with Little Green Tree House for almost 11 years, and it has been my absolute pleasure to help so many families join LGTH over the last decade! I have enjoyed getting to know each and every one of our wonderful parents and children. Early Childhood Education is my passion, and our talented teachers are a daily inspiration. Hearing “Miss Betsy” as I walk down the hallway will never cease to bring me sunshine on the rainiest of days! I can’t wait to welcome you and your child to the Little Green Tree House family! Come grow and learn with us!

Krystle Marquez, Director

Hello! My Name is Krystle, but most of the kids call me Ms. Stel. I have been a teacher for over 10 years and have been part of the LGTH community since 2017. I am a California native and transplant to Chicago in 2012. I graduated from Long Beach State University and recently finished my degree in Children’s Psychology and Art Therapy at National Louis University. I have worked with children of all ages and in many different settings, including babysitting, summer camp as well as in the both Montessori and traditional classroom settings for the last 9 years. For the last 10 years, I have exclusively worked in 2-year-old classrooms. When I’m not at LGTH I enjoy adventuring with my Fiancé and my dog Achilles. I enjoy crafting, game nights with friends, off-roading in our Jeep, and camping. I am grateful to have the opportunity to work with you and your family!