About Our Staff

The Owl’s Nest staff is committed to early childhood education and development. Continue reading to learn about the amazing team supporting your kids.

I have always had a strong desire to work with children. Ever since I was a child, other children were always drawn to me and I to them.  Maybe it is because I am young at heart, maybe it is because I loved my childhood so much I wish that for all other children as well, or maybe it is because they are just so darn cute!

My love for children continued with me throughout my life.  In high-school I became a teacher’s aide to a 3^rd grade teacher.  In college I chose to major in psychology because my heart went out to those kids that were a little less fortunate or just needed someone to make a difference in their life.  I was able to do an internship at the University of Kansas Medical Center along side a behavior psychologist and worked with children seeking medical help due to a psychological problem.  After graduating from the University of Missouri I received my Master’s of Education in Counseling at Wichita State University .  During this time I pursued a practicum at Cloud Elementary School where I worked as a counselor while utilizing play therapy.

During my time at the University of Missouri I was a lead teacher at Columbia Montessori School.  I taught all age levels and enjoyed learning the Montessori Philosophy.  While getting my graduate degree at Wichita State I worked at a Mom’s Day Out program and nannied for two families.  After graduating from Wichita State I chose to become a pre-school teacher.  I thoroughly enjoyed watching the children learn and acquire new skills.

After all my experience I have decided to bring my expertise, ideas, teaching philosophies, and love for children into my own daycare.  I would love to be able to have a place where children love to come everyday, can learn and have fun at the same time, where parents feel comfortable leaving their children, and where teachers are eager to make a difference in each and every child’s life!

I would like to thank my husband, friends, and family for helping make this possible and providing me with much love and support along the way!

My name is Kelly and I am the Director at The Owl’s Nest. As an energetic person devoted to helping children, I enjoy spending time guiding the children to think creatively, solve problems independently and respect themselves and others. With a degree in Fine Art from the Kansas City Art Institute, I can hopefully plant the seed of creativity in the children I work with.

I have been married for 26 years to my wonderful husband Rob and we have 4 sons, 2 dogs, and a cat. For more than 20 years, I have been actively engaged in parenting my boys and have been a regular volunteer at my children’s schools, organizing and assisting with various programs and activities. My dual role as mom and teacher gives me a special insight into where students are coming from and where they are headed. For the past several years, I have been working as a teacher and teacher’s aide at a local Early Childhood Development Center. I am also currently working as a part time nanny for a family with 2 young children.

My name is Libby Aguirre. I have been working in childcare for 10 years and bring compassion, energy, and creativity to everything I do. With patience and playfulness, I love making every child feel important and valued. Whether leading activities, joining in a game, or lending a listening ear, I strive to create a safe, fun, and welcoming space for kids.

Outside of work, I enjoy running, reading, and all things Taylor Swift. I also love spending time with my two dogs, Arlo and Chieftyn, who keep me busy and active. My joy for life and genuine care for children make me grateful to be part of The Owl’s Nest team.

My name is Mollee, and I’ve been working with the after-school program at The Nest for two years. I truly love being a part of it. I’ve had the pleasure of working with children of all ages for about 18 years now.

During the day, I work with our two-year-olds at Little Owly’s, which makes the after-school program a fun change of pace. The children are so much fun, and I enjoy playing with them.

Outside of school, I like playing billiards with my husband and friends or catching up on my favorite TV shows. I also have a wonderful golden doodle named Luna.

I’m so glad to be part of this program and look forward to getting to know each of our amazing students.

My name is Nicole Yearout. I am a lifelong Kansas City native with over 20 years of childcare experience and a deep passion for working with young children. I take great joy in helping little ones learn, grow, and develop, while also supporting parents by creating a safe and welcoming environment.

I’ve been married for eight years and am a proud mom to a kindergartener, so I understand firsthand the trust it takes to leave your child in someone else’s care. My goal is to make every family feel comfortable and confident, knowing their child is in loving hands.

Outside of the classroom, I enjoy gardening and cheering on my favorite hometown teams — the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals.

With warmth, experience, and dedication, I am honored to guide The Owl’s Nest and help shape the next generation of curious, confident learners.

Hello! My name is Lauren Ruff, and I’m so excited to be part of The Nest team!

I’m originally from Kansas City and currently live in Lenexa with my wonderful boyfriend and our energetic dog, who definitely keeps us on our toes! We love spending time outdoors, especially hiking together on local trails. One of my biggest passions is traveling; I’m always eager to explore new places and cultures. If there’s an opportunity to scuba dive, I’m all in! There’s something so peaceful and fascinating about being underwater and discovering the beauty of marine life.

In the classroom, you’ll quickly find that I’m a big fan of all things messy and creative. Whether we’re painting with our hands, digging into sensory bins, or experimenting with gooey science projects, I believe that some of the best learning happens when we roll up our sleeves and dive right in. Don’t worry—a little mess just means a lot of fun and discovery!

I can’t wait to get to know your child and help them grow through play, exploration, and plenty of joyful (and sometimes messy!) learning.

Hello! My name is Holly and I am a substitute teacher at The Owl’s Nest.

I’ve always had a passion for working with children of all ages. As a student, I gained extensive experience babysitting and working with children with disabilities. As an Occupational Therapist, I spent several years working with elementary-aged children, as well as in adult acute rehab.

I am also a mom of three teenagers and have enjoyed volunteering in their schools and with the Lead to Read KC program. Last school year, I worked at The Owl’s Nest and served as a substitute teacher in all classrooms at Little Owly’s.

In my free time, I enjoy reading, traveling, attending concerts, walking, and spending time with my husband, family, and friends.

My name is Greg Gillapp, and I’ve been with Little Owly’s for the past 10 years, and with The Owl’s Nest since the beginning. My primary responsibilities include maintaining the building, ensuring campus safety and security, and driving the bus for our before and after-school children.

I graduated from the University of Southern California with a business degree. I am an Army veteran and a retired painter.  I’m also a proud grandpa to 6 grandkids and 6 step-grandkids, with another one on the way!

In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my family, wood working, playing the drums, listening to soft rock, and cheering on the Royals or the Kansas City Chiefs!