Concrete Rose Learning Center brings a diverse range of experience and backgrounds together to guide our work and advance our mission.
Leadership Team
Sharonda Brown-Kern – Founder and Executive Director
Sharonda has always been passionate about public service and early childhood education. She has dedicated the past 21 years of her career to serving underserved children and families in Illinois, both in the public and nonprofit sectors. Sharonda began her journey as an early childhood teacher and later transitioned to a consultant, trainer, and technical assistance provider. More recently, she has worked as an Early Childhood Program Support Specialist, providing technical assistance to State-funded Preschool for All Expansion programs.
Sharonda spent her childhood in Chicago before moving to the Northwest suburbs for high school. Her family faced numerous obstacles that could have hindered her success in school and life, but they overcame these barriers with the help of public services. The challenges faced by her family were similar to those experienced by the families she serves in her career. Throughout her education her grandmother, Rose, was a significant source of support. She always encouraged Sharonda to do her best in school. In honor of her grandmother and her belief that all children can succeed regardless of their background and where they come from, Sharonda established the Concrete Rose Learning Center.
Sharonda has a Master’s degree in Education and a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education. She holds a Professional Educator License with endorsements in Early Childhood Education and Early Childhood Special Education. Additionally, she possesses a Gateways to Opportunity Director Credential and a Training and Technical Assistance Credential.
Instructional Staff
Melissa Morales – Interim Teacher/Program Coordinator
I’m Melissa Morales, originally from Highland Park, IL, a dedicated teacher assistant with a passion for nurturing young minds. Having worked extensively with children aged 0-6, I’m committed to helping them build the foundational skills crucial for their future success.
I am currently pursuing an Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education at the College of Lake County, with an anticipated graduation date of December 2024. My academic journey has been marked by my membership in Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society and earning honors certificates from the college, proving my commitment to excellence in my field. Looking ahead, I aim to further my education by obtaining a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, with a focus on dual language endorsement. This goal aligns with my passion for supporting diverse learning needs and fostering inclusive educational environments.
Outside of my professional and academic pursuits, I enjoy listening to music and drawing, which provide me with creative outlets and relaxation.
Lynda Kruse, Teacher Assistant
I am so happy to be working as a Teacher Assistant at Concrete Rose Learning Center! I have been working with children of all ages for over twenty-five years. I have my BA from the University of Illinois at Chicago in History of Architecture and Art, my MA from The Art Institute of Chicago in Art Therapy, and my Illinois Teacher Certification from National Louis University. My passion is working with preschoolers, and I am honored to be here to help children learn and grow. I am looking forward to an amazing year!
In my free time, I love to read books and take long walks and bike rides. I have three adult children and a big black dog named Baloo, and a smaller fluffy white dog named Mowgli.
Erica Rebollar – Teacher Assistant
My name is Erica. I’m thrilled to be a part of the Concrete Rose Learning Center team as a preschool teacher assistant.
I’ve always had a passion for early childhood education. My goal is to create a nurturing, fun, and inclusive space where little learners can thrive. Each day, I’m inspired by the curiosity and creativity of our students. I love helping them grow through hands-on learning and play. I’m excited to build strong connections with all children and their families in supporting each child’s unique journey!
My name is Odalys Mateos, but everyone calls me Ody, and I am incredibly excited for this school year. I am looking forward to getting to know you and your child. I know this is going to be a great year for all of us to grow and learn together.
I’ll start by letting you know a little bit about me. I grew up in Highland Park Illinois, and I currently still reside there. This will be my first school year working at Concrete Rose Learning Center. And I couldn’t be more excited. I previously worked at a childcare center for three and a half years. There I completed my Infant/Toddler CDA. I will continue my education at College of Lake County with a graduation date of December 2025. I know how much you care about your child’s education, and I will do everything in my power to ensure a successful school year. We are going to learn so many great things, and I am looking forward to every minute of it.
In my spare time I love to spend time with my family , reading a good book, and spending quality time with my children, I look forward to getting to know each and everyone of you.
Jennifer Sianis – Teacher Assistant
I have been working with children in Early Childhood Education for a little more than 2 decades. I am eager to bring developing students an environment of patience and security while challenging them to create their best potential. I have obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood education and Philosophy from Roosevelt University. I have completed certification as a Montessori teacher at MMTTC in Evanston (now based in Riverwoods). I am dedicated to enthusiastic and dynamic teaching as a means of nurturing and helping to create a lifelong love of knowledge in children. Over the past four years, I have grown a love for play-based learning. In my experience, I have witnessed the process of how a child learns about their worlds and themselves, and how play is a natural way for them to learn problem-solving skills and collaboration, using their creativity and curiosity. I am honored to be involved in this field and to work with young humans. I look to complete my Masters Degree in Developmental Psychology in the next few years as I grow and learn at Concrete Rose Children’s Learning Center.
I am a wife to my best friend of 25 years and a mother to two young children. I love this community we have been a part of for 15 years, and hope to grow and learn more about the people that live and love this area around the great Lake Michigan.
Rabia Rashid – Substitute Teacher
My name is Rabia, and I’m so excited to be a substitute teacher. After working in finance and banking, I made a career change to pursue my interest in early childhood education. I truly enjoy helping young children learn, grow, and explore the world around them. It’s a joy to support each child’s unique journey, and I feel lucky to be part of Concrete Rose Learning Center community.
Our dedicated teaching team plays a vital role in each child’s growth and development. With a genuine passion for working with young learners, our teachers foster curiosity and exploration in a supportive environment. All are licensed by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) and participate in ongoing professional development. We maintain a low teacher-to-child ratio of 2:18, ensuring personalized learning and meaningful one-on-one interactions.