Toddlers Staff
Aaliyah Grimaldo – Otters

Libby Knott – Otters
Brenda Collison – Owls
Brenda Collison is a Toddler Teacher, where she has been nurturing and guiding young learners at TLC since July 2020. With a Bachelor’s degree in Biology from CSU and a Master’s in Elementary Education, Curriculum and Instruction from CU Denver, Brenda blends a strong scientific foundation with a deep passion for education.
Although Brenda has taught students of all ages, from toddlers to adults, it’s working with young children that truly ignites her passion. She is deeply committed to fostering toddlers’ social and emotional growth, while supporting their language development in a warm and engaging environment. Her enthusiasm for early childhood education shines through in her approach, creating a safe and enriching space for little ones to explore and grow.
Outside of the classroom, Brenda enjoys gardening in the summer and indulging in sewing and crafts during the winter months. As a second-generation native Coloradan, she enjoys all that her home state has to offer. Brenda also has some fascinating past experiences, including working with the Colorado Wildlife Federation to release Peregrine Falcons in downtown Denver and educating students across the Front Range with Rosie the tarantula for the Butterfly Pavilion!
Layla Johnsen – Owls
Layla Johnsen has been a teacher at TLC since March 2020. They hold an Early Childhood Teaching License from the Colorado Department of Early Childhood Education and a Level 3 Early Childhood Credential through PDIS. Layla’s passion for working with children began shortly after high school when they started volunteering at their old elementary school. It was in the kindergarten classroom that they discovered their true calling, and they have been dedicated to early childhood education ever since.
Layla is especially passionate about teaching social-emotional skills and early literacy. They also love incorporating their passion for music and art into the curriculum, using these creative outlets to enrich their students’ learning experiences. They believe that fostering emotional growth and creativity are essential to helping children develop into well-rounded individuals.
Outside of teaching, Layla enjoys sewing, crafting, and designing costumes in their free time. They are also an avid singer and play the ukulele. Additionally, Layla has a love for languages and continues to learn Swedish, Japanese, and American Sign Language, with the goal of connecting more deeply with their grandmother and broadening their linguistic skills.
Daniela Orona – Support Teacher
Anahi Corchado – Support Teacher
Anahi Corchado joined TLC Learning Center as a Teacher Assistant in July 2024. Currently pursuing her degree in Early Childhood Education, Anahi combines her hands-on classroom experience with ongoing professional studies to provide nurturing support for our young learners.
Anahi finds joy in supporting children in their developmental journey. Her commitment to education extends beyond the classroom, as she balances her professional role with her academic studies.
When not in the classroom or studying, Anahi treasures time with her toddler, especially taking walks together where they share moments of discovery and wonder. Her dual role as both an educator and parent enriches her approach to early childhood education.
Sondee Van Matre – Chickadees
Lesly Soto – Chickadees
Denisse Garcia – Pikas
Denisse García is a dedicated Toddler Teacher at TLC, having joined the team in August 2024. With an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education, Denisse is passionate about fostering social-emotional learning in young children, which she views as a crucial aspect of their development. She finds joy in witnessing the unique ways children meet their goals each day, relishing the dynamic and ever-changing environment that early childhood education offers.
Outside of her professional life, Denisse enjoys spending time outdoors with her family and friends, cherishing the moments of connection and exploration.
Carolina Mosqueda – Pikas

Carolina’s path to teaching started organically in her middle school years, as she discovered her gift for connecting with children while caring for younger family members. This early experience led her to pursue work in childcare during high school, where she developed her passion for supporting children’s growth and development. She has a particular passion for early literacy, incorporating reading and language development into her engaging classroom activities.
Beyond the classroom, Carolina enjoys quality time with family and friends, shopping, and taking refreshing walks. Her balanced approach to life and genuine enthusiasm for early childhood education make her an inspiring presence in our TLC community.
Kayla Schaefer – Support Teacher