Summer Camp Registration Now Open!
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Our Staff
Wendy Sessler
Director/Teacher
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Hello Families! I am so excited to announce that I am the new owner of Purple Moose. This is a great way to celebrate 20 years at Purple Moose. I am so excited to begin the school year and watch all our students blossom and work alongside all our amazing teachers. A little bit about my educational background, I have a Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education. I am also a vision therapist. It is very intriguing how our brains and eyes work together. When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with my three children and their families, including my four grandchildren. I love the outdoors and walking, gardening and kayaking are some of my favorite activities.
Anna Linscheid
Director
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Anna Linscheid has been the heart and soul of Purple Moose Enrichment Preschool since January 2010, blending her corporate savvy from nine years in IT sales (hello, CDW and Dell!) with her lifelong passion for early childhood education. Over the years, Anna has transformed the Moose into a vibrant, community-driven preschool that’s as much about fun and creativity as it is about learning.
With her co-director, Miss Wendy, stepping into a more hands-on role in the daily care of The Moose, the duo has created a dynamic partnership that ensures every child feels loved, supported, and inspired. Together, they’ve built a program that’s as nurturing as it is innovative, rooted in the belief that every child deserves a joyful start to their educational journey.
What truly sets Purple Moose apart is the incredible love and support of the Crystal Lake community. Thanks to our amazing families and neighbors, we’ve been able to grow, evolve, and even move around this sweet city we call home. Whether we’re exploring new spaces or deepening our roots, our commitment to providing exceptional early childhood education has never wavered.
Anna, Miss Wendy, and the entire Purple Moose team invite you to come see what makes our preschool so special. From our playful curriculum to our warm, welcoming environment, we’re proud to be a place where little learners thrive and big dreams begin!
Carlie Patton
Teacher
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My name is Carlie Patton. Since August 2018, I have been at Purple Moose Enrichment Preschool with prior preschool teaching experience as well. I am an Explorers Class Teacher and work with the 4/5 age group. I think our name is perfect for what we do. We explore daily as we learn! My outside interests are photography and traveling.
Lauren MacShane
Teacher Assistant
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My name is Lauren MacShane and I've been with Purple Moose since 2021. You can find me with the Explorers and the Trailblazers, but I've even worked with the Naturalists. In addition to Purple Moose, I am also a part-time Nanny. Before entering the world of pre-k and professional childcare, I had been a certified Veterinary Assistant for over 6 years. I still have a strong love for animals and when I'm not working you can definitely find me with my pets. I am originally from Crystal Lake but am currently settled near historic Woodstock. I'm looking forward to another great school year and getting to know more amazing kids and their families here at Purple Moose!
Cheryl Covert
Teacher Assistant
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Hi I'm Cheryl and I joined Purple Moose in 2022 in the Adventurers class. I have been in Early Childhood Education for 10+ years as a teacher and assistant. I have two kids, two grandchildren, and a dog named Skye. I enjoy gardening, hiking, kayaking, art, and going to concerts.
Abby Kakish
Teacher
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My name is Abby Kakish and I teach the Tues/Thurs Trailblazers class. I have a Bachelor's in English Literature and have been working at Purple Moose since 2022. I truly enjoy working with children and being part of their learning and growth. I am also a proud mom of three children who have taught me so much about patience, love, and the joy of watching children grow and learn. Outside of school, I love walking, traveling, and spending quality time with my family and friends. I look forward to creating a fun, caring, and positive environment where the children in my class can learn, grow, and make wonderful memories!
Lisa Kobeluch
Teacher
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My name is Lisa Kobeluch (known to the kids as Miss K) and I've been with Purple Moose during the school year and summer camp since 2022. Prior to that, I spent 10 years at District 47. I love being a part of the Purple Moose family as watching children learn and grow brings me so much joy! Outside of school, I love being with my family, spending time outdoors, and watching the Chicago Cubs.
Whitney DelFiacco
Teacher
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Hello, I am Miss Whitney. I began with Purple Moose as a substitute teacher in 2023 and now teach the Trailblazers and Naturalists classes. I have my Bachelor's in Special Education and 6 years experience in the education world prior to Purple Moose. I have found my passion working in preschool and enjoy all the magic in learning. When I am not at Purple Moose, I enjoy spending time with my son and exploring the outdoors.
Luci Tello
Teacher Assistant
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My name is Luci Tello and I joined Purple Moose in 2026. I have been in the early childhood education for 5+ years working as a teacher assistant and I also have 3 children of my own! I really enjoy working with children and I love seeing their smiles everyday! During my free time I enjoy spending time with my family. I'm looking forward to a great school year working with your children and creating great memories!
Carly Johnson
Teacher Assistant
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Hi! My name is Carly Johnson and I am so excited to be joining the Purple Moose family in 2026! I'm thrilled to be part of the MWF Trailblazers classroom. I previously taught kindergarten and physical education for five years at a private school in Elgin and work as a substitute teacher in District 47. I absolutely love working with young children because their enthusiasm, curiosity, and excitement for learning are some of my favorite things! I love creating an environment where children can grow and learn through play, exploration, and creativity. When I'm not in the classroom, I love spending time with my family. My husband, our two kiddos, and our dog, Reggie, are my world! I enjoy spending time outdoors, gardening, listening to live music, exercising, traveling, and, of course, cheering on my Green Bay Packers! I am so happy to be part of such a special place and feel very lucky to be joining the Purple Moose community. I'm looking forward to getting to know all of our little Trailblazers and their families and having an amazing year together!
Yashia Gorzelany
Teacher
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My name is Yashia Gorzelany and I joined Purple Moose in 2026 with the Adventurers. I attended Harper College and earned my Associate's degree in Arts with emphasis on secondary education. Previously, I taught in a children's 3/4 program in Hoffman Estates. I especially enjoy children's creativity and imagination. In my free time, I love creating crafts with my children, reading, and spending time with family and friends. I'm looking forward to inspiring little minds and being inspired by them along the way!