Our Teachers

Our Owner

"Cultivating a life long love of learning"

Kate Cozanni

Owner and Founder of The Giving Tree

Kate has been in the education field for more than 25 years. She started out as a high school varsity basketball and field hockey coach and elementary school teacher in Pittsburgh, PA. Kate worked in the Chicago Public Schools for two years as a fourth grade reading and math specialist. While on maternity leave from Chicago Public Schools with her second son, Kate started The Giving Tree Home Child Care, and her idea of a quality early childhood program was born. Kate completed her Masters degree at Concordia University in Early Childhood Education. In 2004, The Giving Tree Early Learning Academy was opened in Forest Park. Kate continued to work in the Early Childhood field as an adjunct faculty member at Triton College and as a coach for other child care center owners. Kate enjoys watching her six children in their various sports and activities.

Meet Our Leaders

Team work at its finest

Ms. Juana

Assistant Director/Preschool Teacher

Ms. Juana has been with the company since it opened. She speaks English and Spanish and welcomes families each morning.

Ms. Hazel

Director

Ms. Hazel has her Masters in Early Childhood Education from Dominican University and has been with The Giving Tree since we opened.

Ms. Sally

Preschool Teacher

Ms. Sally has been with The Giving Tree in the 2-year-old room and the preschool room for many years. She is creative and artistic.

Our Amazing Team

Passionate Early Learning Professionals. Creating quality early learning opportunities in a play based environment.

Ms. Janelle

Infant

Is a current Infant Room Assistant with more than 15 years of experience in childcare, including both private and center-based care settings. As a mother of five, she brings patience, understanding, and a nurturing perspective to her work with children. Jenelle finds her greatest joy in helping children grow, learn, and navigate the important steppingstones of life

Ms. Julia

Infant

A former student and current Infant Room Teacher with a degree in Early Childhood Education. She brings experience working with infants, toddlers, and after-school students, supporting children’s growth through attentive care, age-appropriate learning, and a nurturing classroom environment. In addition to her work in early childhood education, Julia also teaches dance, bringing creativity, movement, and joy into her interactions with children.

Ms. Laila

Infant

Is a former student and current Infant Room Assistant who is beginning her journey in the field of early childhood education. She is excited to support young children as they learn, grow, and develop in a caring classroom environment. Laila brings enthusiasm, dedication, and a nurturing approach to her work with infants.

Ms. Alexis

Toddler Teacher

Ms. Alexis started as an assistant and worked hard to receive her CDA in Infant and Toddler Care. She works hard to promote each student's developoment.

Ms. Amor

Infant

Is a former student and current Preschool Assistant who is excited to support children’s learning and development. She brings a hardworking, sociable, and positive approach to the classroom, helping create an engaging and welcoming environment where children can grow, explore, and thrive.

Ms. Fantasia

Pre-k

Ms. Fantasia has been with TGT for five years between the infant and Pre-K rooms. She works with the Pre-K students on preparing them for Kindergarten.