Meet the Gingerbread Preschool Team: A School Family That Cares
A Supportive Preschool Family That Fosters Growth
At Gingerbread Preschool, we create a school family where trust, relationships, and support shape every interaction. Rooted in Conscious Discipline, our educators nurture social-emotional growth, empowering children to build confidence, empathy, and problem-solving skills.
✔ Meaningful Connections – Children develop self-regulation, teamwork, and emotional intelligence in a warm, supportive environment.
✔ Encouraging Independence – Through guided interactions, students learn to express emotions, solve problems, and thrive in preschool and beyond.
Dedicated Leadership Across Our Gingerbread Preschool Locations
Jennifer Agar - Co-Director, Azalea Gingerbread Preschool
With over 20 years at Gingerbread Preschool, Mrs. Agar is a dedicated early childhood educator with a lifelong passion for nurturing young minds. Growing up in a home daycare environment, she developed a deep understanding of child development and the importance of fostering a love for learning.
✔ Certified Expertise – Holds a Director’s Credential and a Child Development Associate (CDA) in Early Childhood Education.
🗨️ "I love working with children. I enjoy teaching them new things they will use for the rest of their lives."
Taylor Surdyk - Co-Director, Azalea Gingerbread Preschool
With over a decade at Gingerbread Preschool, Ms. Surdyk is a dedicated early childhood educator passionate about fostering a safe, nurturing environment for young learners. A Florida native, raised in St. Petersburg, she is deeply connected to the community and committed to supporting local families. When she’s not shaping young minds, she enjoys family time, fishing, and Disney trips.
✔ Certified Expertise – Holds a Director’s Credential and a Child Development Associate (CDA) in Early Childhood Education.
🗨️ "Working with children is such a special gift. Knowing I am creating a difference in their lives while providing a safe and loving environment brings joy to my heart."
Justina Compton - Co-Director, Bardmoor Gingerbread Preschool
Since 2011, Mrs. Compton has been an integral part of Gingerbread Preschool, fostering a nurturing learning environment where children thrive. Passionate about building meaningful connections, she values the relationships formed with students and families. Outside the classroom, she enjoys traveling and supporting her children in competitive sports.
✔ Certified Expertise – Holds an Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education and is pursuing a Bachelor’s in Educational Studies.
💡 “I believe in the power of connection. Building strong relationships with our students and families is key to a successful educational journey.”
Tanya Lawson - Co-Director, Bardmoor Gingerbread Preschool
With over nine years at Gingerbread Preschool, Mrs. Lawson brings 17 years of experience in early childhood education, fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment. She is dedicated to helping young learners grow with confidence. Outside of work, she enjoys road trips and family time.
✔ Certified Expertise – Holds a Director’s Credential, Child Development Associate (CDA), and a Preschool Specialization Certificate.
🗨️ “I believe it only takes one person to make a difference in a child’s life… I want to be that person.”
Michelle Espaillat - Director, Carillon Gingerbread Preschool
With over 20 years in early childhood education, Mrs. Espaillat has been a dedicated part of Gingerbread Preschool since 2001. Originally from New York, she brings a wealth of knowledge and passion for creating a safe, high-quality learning environment where children thrive.
✔ Certified Expertise – Holds an Advanced Level Director Credential, Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential, an Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education from St. Petersburg College, and a BA in Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University.
🗨️ "I believe 0-5 are the most crucial years of a child's life. Providing a safe, quality learning environment is key to helping children succeed! Working with children keeps me young at heart!"
Ildi McGinness - Director of Training & Teacher Preschool
Since 2005, Mrs. McGinness has been an integral part of Gingerbread Preschool, growing from a classroom teacher to Director of Training & Support across all three locations. Originally an elementary school teacher in Hungary, she embraced early childhood education with extensive training and leadership development at Gingerbread.
✔ Certified Expertise – Experienced educator with a focus on teacher training, leadership, and Conscious Discipline.
🗨️ "See the best in others."
Why Accreditation Matters
Our commitment to high-quality early education is reflected in our accreditation. See how we maintain the highest standards for safety and learning.
