Our Leadership & Staff Home / About Us / Our Leadership & Staff Meet Our Dedicated Team A Message from the Principal Jennifer Padron Soto, Principal Welcome to our vibrant community! Choosing the right foundation for your child’s educational journey is one of the most significant decisions you will make as a parent. At our school, we understand that you aren’t just looking for childcare; you are looking for a premier preschool experience—a place where your child is safe, celebrated, and academically ignited. Our mission is built upon a simple but profound promise: to provide an environment that is as secure as it is inspiring. From the moment you step onto our campus, you will feel the warmth that defines us. We pride ourselves on being an engaging, fun, and caring second home for our families. The Power of Tenure and Experience What truly sets our school apart is the remarkable longevity of our faculty. In an industry where consistency is rare, we are home to educators who have taught for 15, 20, and even 25 years. This isn’t just a staff; it is a seasoned team of experts. Our teachers do not just supervise—they mentor. Because they have spent decades perfecting their craft, they possess a deep understanding of our Links to Learning curriculum. They know how to ask the open-ended questions that spark a child’s natural curiosity, transforming everyday moments into profound learning opportunities. A Literacy-Based Academic Advantage We are proud to be a literacy-based preschool, offering a curriculum that far exceeds standard developmental milestones. While many programs focus solely on play, we bridge the gap between exploration and academic excellence. Our students graduate from our Pre-K program already writing sentences and engaging in advanced STEM projects. When our graduates move on to kindergarten in the Westmont, Downers Grove, and Darien school districts, they don’t just meet expectations—they exceed them. We often hear from parents that their children are entering elementary school with a first-grade readiness, thanks to the rigorous yet joyful preparation they received here. Beyond the Classroom: A True Partnership We believe that a school should support the whole family. This philosophy comes to life through our unique community traditions: Parent Night Out: Every three months, we host a complimentary evening of movies and pizza for our students, giving parents the gift of time for a date night or a quiet evening, knowing their children are in the safest hands. Holistic Growth: Through our enrichment programs like Soccer Shots, Techie Club (STEM), Tippy Toes (Dance), and Crouching Tigers (Martial Arts), your child has the opportunity to discover their passions right here on campus. Throughout the year, we host events that unite staff and families, building a strong sense of community. Security and Peace of Mind Your peace of mind is our highest priority. We maintain a secure campus through rigorous safety protocols, including our “Name-to-Face” transition checks and specialized emergency training for every staff member. But safety is about more than just protocols; it is about keeping you connected. Through the Links 2 Home communication app, our teachers provide real-time updates, photos, and daily reports, ensuring you never miss a milestone and always feel a part of your child’s day. We look forward to welcoming you into our family! Read More Learn More About Chesterbrook Academy Westmont Teachers Do you have long-standing faculty and staff at your preschool? At Chesterbrook Academy Preschool in Westmont, we are anchored by incredible longevity; several of our teachers in our Infant, Beginner, and Intermediate programs have been with us for 7 to 20 years. This generational experience creates a unique sense of family and continuity that is rare in early childhood education. What do families appreciate most about teachers at Chesterbrook Academy Westmont? What families value most is the sheer longevity of our staff combined with the genuine love they shower upon the children. Knowing that their child is in the hands of a seasoned professional who truly cares is what makes our community special. What qualifications do your preschool teachers have? Academic excellence is a priority at Chesterbrook Academy Preschool in Westmont. All of our lead teachers hold either a Bachelor’s degree or an Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education, bringing a strong pedagogical foundation to their daily interactions with the children. What makes the teachers at Chesterbrook Academy Westmont exceptional? Beyond their credentials, our teachers are exceptional because of the authentic partnerships they cultivate with parents. They take the time to know each family on a personal level, creating a bridge between home and school that ensures every child receives personalized care. Come See Our School in Action! Contact us today to schedule a private tour and experience our Links to Learning curriculum firsthand. Learn More