Meet Our Teachers
Miss Melissa
Director and Lead Teacher
Miss Melissa has been in the field of Early Childhood Education for over 30 years. She is Director II certified through Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care and holds an Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education. Miss Melissa has a passion for the field and stays up to date on the latest research through books, podcasts, trainings and professional development opportunities. She is also an active member of “Play is the Way” advocacy group here in Ipswich. Miss Melissa enjoys spending time with her family, walking with her beloved pup, Tucker, yoga, reading, boating and the beach.
Miss Jessica, Lead Teacher
Miss Jessica joined Small World in 2022. She holds an Associate of Science in Early Childhood Education from North Shore Community College. She is Lead Teacher certified for Preschool and Toddler/Infant by the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care. Jessica has deep roots in the community as a fourth generation Ipswich resident. She enjoys reading, art, hiking, boating and spending time with her husband and three children (all of whom attended Small World.) In the classroom, she brings her artistic talents to life, using creativity to engage and inspire the children.
Jill Gleim, OTA, Music and Movement
Jill has an M.Ed. from Lesley University, is an OTA, and the creator of Arts All Day and Jillsville Dance School (1982). She has extensive training and teaching experience in Dance, Dalcroze Eurythmics, improvisation, and singing. Currently she teaches music and dance to children at Tufts and various nursery schools on the North Shore and studies neurodevelopmental movement techniques to apply to her teaching