Amber Bray

Director

Joined TCP 2017

As a graduate of George Mason University and Old Dominion University, I hold a B.A. in Biology and a Masters of Education (PreK-6th). I spent 10 years teaching in a variety of educational settings, to include preschool, Kindergarten, 1st grade, 3rd grade, and Title I support (ESL/Gifted). I enjoy this position as I am able to work side by side with a wonderful staff and support them as they work with your children. 

I was born and raised in Poquoson and graduated from PHS in 2001. During college, I met my husband Derryn while studying abroad in Australia and we were married in 2008 in Virginia Beach. We have 2 children together and enjoy raising our family in Yorktown.  Children are such a blessing from God and I love having a profession where they are the focus.  

At Trinity Christian Preschool, we are committed to our mission of partnering with each family to provide every student with quality curriculum, as well as a nurturing environment. Please don't hesitate to reach out should you have any questions or concerns. As a mom, former teacher and now preschool director, I can relate on many different levels and would love to be able to help your family however I can! 

Brenda Chapman

Assistant Director

Joined TCP 2009

After graduating from West Virginia University in 1989, I worked as an accountant at a CPA firm until 1992.  I moved from West Virginia to Texas that year after marrying my husband, David.  We moved to England soon after, and I continued my accounting career overseas.  After my first child was born in 1995, I was lucky enough to become a stay at home mom.

In 2006, when my children were 10, 6 and 2, we moved to Poquoson.  After 20 years in the Air Force and 11 different places to call home, we decided that the children would benefit from putting down roots, so we decided to retire from the Air Force and call Poquoson home.

My journey with Trinity Christian Preschool began as a parent in 2008, when my daughter attended TCP. During her second year as a student, I was approached to become a substitute teacher.  I gladly accepted the opportunity and have been so fortunate to be a part of the growth of many wonderful children.  At the time, I did not envision that I would become the Assistant Director and be able to combine my accounting background with the joys of spending time with your children.

Amanda Carpenter

Two-Year, 2 Day Teacher

Joined TCP in 2018

I was lucky enough to grow up in Poquoson most of my life. Having many connections with the wonderful families that come through TCP is one of my favorite things.

My husband and I now live in York County, where we are raising our three wonderfully busy and growing children, Claire, Jett, and Lilly. Besides our three kids and the experience that comes along with that, I have worked with children for most of my life.

I started volunteering with my church when I was in high school and continued teaching a 2/3 year old class through college. I ended up in the professional world for 6 years managing a retail business; we eventually made the decision that staying home with our children was the best for our family. I started back teaching preschool and found that to be the perfect balance of togetherness with my kids and back to professional work life.

 I absolutely love children, watching them learn and grow and become little “doers” in the world. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to love and teach your children. We are going to have a wonderful year together at Trinity!

Jolie Raymond

Two-Year, 2 Day Teacher

Joined TCP in 2021

I am delighted to be working with your little ones at Trinity Christian Preschool.  I've lived all over the world, including Japan, Thailand, Jordan, Eswatini (formerly Swaziland), California (where I attended Palomar College), and Rhode Island.  But my favorite place to call home has been Poquoson, where I moved in 2020 with my husband, Charlie, and our two sons.

I've worked with children in one way or another for most of my life, including as a Lovaas Therapist for preschool-age children with autism, the Executive Director of a not-for-profit children’s center, and (my favorite title) Stay-at-Home Mom.  As part of the latter, I’ve enjoyed serving as Room Parent in my children’s classrooms and taking an active role in the PTA, as well as volunteering both within the school and with local community groups supporting disadvantaged youth.

It's been rewarding watching my sons grow, but I still enjoy spending time with the little ones as well, which is why my position at Trinity has been such a blessing!  I look forward to the opportunity to play my small role in the education and development of your precious children.

Cindy Dodsworth
Three-Year, 3 Day Teacher

Joined TCP in 2007

My name is Cindy Dodsworth and I teach the three year old, three day class here at Trinity
Christian Preschool. I am very excited to be a part of this wonderful team working to help shape your children.

I grew up in the Air Force town of Sumter, SC. I received my degree in Biology, with a minor in Education from the College of Charleston in Charleston, SC. It was during college that I met my husband, David.
The Navy transferred us to Virginia and, a few minor assignments aside, we have been living in this area ever since.

My employment prior to coming to TCP was mainly office work, which allowed me great flexibility to be home with our two children, born in 1996 and 2001, while they were growing up.

I have lived in Yorktown since 2002, where we raised our kids. My husband and I are recent “empty nesters” and live on a little lake with gorgeous sunset views. We have a crazy standard poodle named
“Bee” and adopted a little lab mix puppy named “Remi” in August 2023.

In my spare time, I like to garden, bake, and spend lots of time with my family.

I am truly blessed to be a part of the TCP family and thankful to get to help your children grow and explore this year.

Mary Annett
Three-Year, 5 Day Teacher

Joined TCP in 2012

 I first came to TCP as a proud parent in 2008 and then began substituting at TCP in 2012.  I joined the staff full time in 2014 as a teaching assistant for the 2-year-olds and then the 3-year-olds. I have now been teaching 3-year-old classes at TCP since 2016.

I live in Tabb with my husband, Martin, daughter, Maggie, and our puppy, Abby, and my son, Leo, is at Virginia Tech. I lived all over the map while growing up - home was wherever the Air Force sent us! I graduated from Virginia Tech in 1997 with a B.A. in Communication Studies, a second major in English and a minor in Sociology. I spent six years working as an editor and writer, published a book in 2004, and became a stay-at-home mom in 2004 when my first child was born. I am currently a busy volunteer and sports mom at Tabb High.

I enjoy spending time with children and watching them learn and grow, and I'm thrilled to be able to do so at TCP while working with such a wonderful, supportive staff!

Jenn Moore

Three-Year, 5 Day Teacher

Joined TCP in 2021

My name is Jennifer Moore. I teach the 5-day 3 year old class. I enjoy teaching preschool because this age is so fun. They have so much development physically and academically from the start of the school year to the ending. It’s such a blessing to watch them learn and grow. 

Before joining the TCP family in 2021, I worked at another preschool in the area as a teacher and admin.

I live in Poquoson with my husband, Jonathan and our 2 daughters, Shelby and Aubrey, who keep me very busy. 

I’m looking forward to another fun year! Thank you for entrusting your precious children with me!

Beth Burns

Four-Year, 3 Day Teacher

Joined TCP in 2021

My name is Beth Burns and I teach a 3 day 4 year old class.  It is very exciting to be working with the awesome staff at Trinity.  I have a Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood education from Ashford University in Clinton, Iowa. 

After working for 20 years with Newport News Public Schools, I decided to retire.  It wasn't long after I retired that I was offered a teaching position at Wythe Creek Academy.  Working with children is so rewarding.  I believe that children need to feel safe and loved in their learning environment.  I feel fortunate to do what I love each day.

I am a mother of four children with five beautiful grandchildren.  During my spare time, I love to bake and watch cooking shows.  I'm looking forward to an exciting year at Trinity.

Cathy Garrison

Four-Year, 5 Day Teacher

Joined TCP 2009

My name is Cathy Garrison and I am blessed with the opportunity to teach your sweet children!  I began substituting at TCP in 2009 which soon led to a teacher position.  I am thankful to be a part of the wonderful team we have here at Trinity!

I have lived in Poquoson since 1989 and have raised 4 children with my husband Jason .  I have an appreciation and much respect for busy families!

Prior to working at TCP, was a stay at home mom and volunteered in the various schools, taught Sunday school and assisted with Girl and Boy Scouts.

Professionally, I received my Masters in Social Work from Tulane University in New Orleans, LA in 1989.  Much of my job experience at that time focused on adolescents in group homes, psychiatric hospitals and juvenile court.  Teaching preschool is quite refreshing!

It is a privilege to work with your children in this Christian environment and I look forward to watching them learn and grow throughout their time here with us at Trinity!

Tammy Smith

Four-Year, 5 Day Teacher

Joined TCP in 2020

My name is Tammy Smith and I am so excited to be teaching at TCP. I have been teaching preschool for over twenty years. I was a teacher at Wythe Creek Academy in Poquoson for 10 years. I truly love working with preschool children and watching them learn and grow through the year. 

My husband and I moved to Poquoson in 1996 and have two sons, Austin and Garrett. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family, visiting my son Austin and his wife Ashley, beach trips and just relaxing while reading a good book.

I am looking forward to another great year of teaching at TCP! 

Lisa Barden

Young 5's Teacher

Joined TCP in 2015

My name is Lisa Barden, and I love being a part of the Trinity Christian Preschool family! 

I am a Christopher Newport University graduate with a degree in Psychology/Early Childhood Development. I began my
teaching career in York County Public Schools as a fourth-grade teacher, but then made the decision to stay home as I raised my family.
 
My husband and I live in Poquoson, and we have four children, Drew, Nathan, Lauren, and Aidan. Aidan is currently the only one still at home, along with our sweet dog, Sully. 

I came to love Trinity Christian Preschool when we chose TCP for Aidan in 2014. He thrived at Trinity and received a great start to his
education. He still shares how much he loves TCP!

I started on staff as a substitute in 2015 then became a
classroom teacher in 2016. I loved TCP so much, I never left!
 
It is such a blessing to work with children and to see their excitement and joy as they learn new things! I am excited for another great year at TCP!

Lynn Lawson

Young 5's Teacher

Joined TCP in 2021

My name is Lynn Lawson and I am  excited to join the TCP staff. I graduated from CNU in 1992 with a degree in Early Childhood Education. I taught first grade for 18 years and kindergarten for 12 years before retiring last year from HCS.

My husband (Kent) and I live in Poquoson.  We have two children, Erin who graduated from Longwood University in 2017 and works for Dominion Energy and Ashby who will be a freshman at Virginia Tech this fall.  We also have the sweetest chocolate lab named Scout and numerous other pets including ducks, chickens, geese and fish. 

In my free time, I enjoy riding my bike, reading, going to the beach and pool, shopping and spending time with family and friends. 

I look forward to continuing my teaching journey at TCP and becoming a part of your child’s educational journey!

Leigh Anne Szukelewicz

Young 5's Teacher

Joined TCP in 2017

My name is Leigh Anne Szukelewicz, and I feel so blessed to be a part of the TCP family. As a graduate of Virginia Tech, I earned a BA in Education (PreK-8th) and a minor in English.  I spent 21 years in the Hampton City School system as a 2nd, 3rd, and 4th grade teacher and am now in my sixth year of teaching at TCP.  Throughout my teaching career I have had the opportunity to work with some amazing educators, children, and families. 

My husband and I moved to Poquoson in 1998 and have three children, Mary Claire, John and Caroline.  We are also blessed to be grandparents to two wonderful grandchildren, Ryan and Molly. Remi, our fun-loving chocolate lab, keeps the house lively now that our children are grown!

In my free time, I enjoy spending lazy days at the beach with a good book.  I also love to spend time with friends and family.

I am looking forward to another great year of teaching and learning at TCP!

Tillie Dowd
Two-Year, 2 Day Assistant

Joined TCP in 2023
 

I first came to TCP as a parent in 2017 and fell in love with the school. I began substituting for the preschool in 2022 and happily accepted a full-time position in 2023.

I am a mom of two beautiful daughters with my husband Andrew. We enjoy vacationing to Florida and cruising, as well as spending family time at the campground as often as possible.

I am blessed to be a part of your child’s TCP journey.

Carrie Faciszewski
5 Day Assistant

Joined TCP in 2017
 

My name is Carrie Faciszewski and I am a 5 day assistant here at TCP.  I am originally from Illinois and moved to the Hampton Roads area in 1999.

My husband and I have two amazing children that I was blessed to stay at home with for many years.  As a military family, we moved around, but were fortunate enough to make our way back to Poquoson in 2013.  I stayed actively involved in my children's school by volunteering, which led me to pursue a job as a substitute paraprofessional.  I joined TCP in 2017 and earned my degree in Social Science shortly after.
 

Working with the students and staff at Trinity has been such a blessing and I look forward to another amazing school year with our TCP families.

Elizabeth Jones
5 Day Assistant

Joined TCP in 2016
 

My husband and I moved to Poquoson in 2011 and we have 3 wonderful children.  We enrolled our daughter at TCP in 2011, and we fell in love with the school.  She spent 2 wonderful years at Trinity, and I became active with POPs. 

I also became the Preschool Chairperson in 2013, which I served as for 3 years.  Our youngest son enrolled at TCP in 2014 and spent 3 amazing years here.  I was hired as a 3-year old 3-day assistant in 2016 and I am so excited to be able to stay connected to the school even though my youngest has now started school. 

I look forward to many more amazing years at TCP.

Kristen Jones
3 Day Assistant

Joined TCP in 2019

My husband and I live in Poquoson with our 2 daughters. Both girls are TCP Graduates and the opportunity to continue to be involved at such a special preschool is a true blessing!  

I have a degree in accounting from Virginia Tech and have worked as a CPA for a public accounting firm and also had the pleasure of substituting at TCP prior to coming on board as a 3-day assistant in 2018. My family and I love being outside and enjoy bike rides, boating, swimming and softball. 

I can’t wait to see all of the sweet and smiling faces of our TCP family this year!

Jordan McDougal
Two-year, 2 Day Assistant

Joined TCP in 2023

I grew up in Richmond, VA and graduated from Christopher Newport University, where I also played softball. 

Julie Forrest Haczewski
Music Teacher

Joined TCP in 2007

My name is Julie Forrest Haczewski and I am the music teacher at TCP. I am a graduate of Poquoson High School and attended Longwood College as a Music Education Major. I started taking piano lessons at age 5 and my love of music has grown and blossomed ever since.

I am a member of Trinity Church and over the years have had numerous jobs in the music department. I was the organist when I was first married until I had children. For the past 24 years, I have been the children’s choral director, as well as the music director for Vacation Bible School.

I am married to Joseph Haczewski and we have 3 wonderful children, Jennifer (married to John Casey), Jason and Jolyn. When I am not working, you will find me having the time of my life with my granddaughter, Kyndall Brooklyn.

I enjoy working with young children and get great pleasure watching them get excited and express themselves through music.

Kellye Pai-Ford

Music & Movement Instructor

Joined TCP in 2023

My name is Kellye Pai-Ford and I am very excited to join the wonderful team here at Trinity. I will be teaching Music and Movement to your little love bugs and looking forward to watching them grow while getting their wiggles out.

I grew up as a military brat and landed in this area when my father retired. I went to Bethel High School in Hampton and worked at a day care center daily after school. I have always had a passion for children as they are truly God’s gift. I continued my education and received my bachelors in Mechanical Engineering from Old Dominion University in 1993. After many years of working in the engineering world, I took a detour with the birth of my twin boys and taught Algebra and Math 8 for Hampton City Schools for about eight years. Another detour brought me to owning Island Fitness exercise studio in Poquoson while continuing to work as an engineer once again. Through some trials and tribulations, God has brought me full circle and I currently teach Zumba classes at the YMCA and now working with your little ones here moving to music.

My husband, George and I, live here in Poquoson and have raised our twin boys, Gabriel and Jake, and our daughter, Malia in this great little community. In my free time, I love to exercise, walk, read, go to the beach and spend time with my family.

I am so excited to be working here at TCP. I truly believe music is therapy for the soul and movement is therapy for the body, so joining them together is a double blessing! I can’t wait to share those blessings with your littles.