first circle lexington

First Circle Lexington

our toddlers team

Adele Weaver
EDUCATION
Southern New Hampshire University
courses in human services
AN ECE EDUCATOR SINCE
2021
JOINED FIRST CIRCLE
December 2021

Adele W.

Observing my children grow, learn, and explore the world is both inspiring and deeply meaningful. Being a part of their early experiences and milestones allows me to support their development in ways that have a lasting impact. I also love that this work gives me the freedom to engage with my own sense of curiosity and playfulness, finding joy in imagination and silliness while fostering trusting and genuine connections with the children I care for.

Being a First Circle alum, I have a (literally) lifelong love for my place of work. I love coming to work every day to be a part of my FC family! I approach my work in early childhood education with patience, empathy, and a genuine passion for supporting my children’s growth. I focus on creating a nurturing and structured environment where children feel safe to explore and try new things at their own pace. I design and implement creative activities that engage their curiosity and imagination, blending learning with play in ways that feel both meaningful and joyful. Humor and lightheartedness are a natural part of my classroom—we love to get silly and laugh together!

I live in Woburn with my best friend! When I’m not working, I like to spend time with friends and family. I love to travel, whether it be to a different country or simple road trip!

Colleen Hartery
EDUCATION
Middlesex Community College
early childhood education
AN ECE EDUCATOR SINCE
2018
JOINED FIRST CIRCLE
January 2024

Colleen H.

I love seeing the children having fun learning new things each day! I hope to bring positive, upbeat energy to the classroom and give children the confidence to explore their learning environments.

I’m from Chelmsford and have lived here all my life. I love to spend time with my family and friends.

Gabbi Gagiero
EDUCATION
Middlesex Community College
BSc, human services, concentration in early childhood and early intervention
AN ECE EDUCATOR SINCE
2011
JOINED FIRST CIRCLE
September 2022

Gabbi G.

I have always been passionate about supporting children and families, especially during the early stages of development. Through my education and personal experiences, I have built a strong understanding of how important those early years are in shaping a child’s future. I take pride in being someone that families can trust and rely on. My goal is always to make a positive difference, no matter how big or small.

I live in Billerica with my fiancé and our two daughters, Rylee and Ariella. We also have a snapping turtle named Michael Angelo, who lives in a 75-gallon tank with his fish friends. When I’m not working or doing school work, I like to read, watch TV, and hang out with my family.

Manoosh Vafi
EDUCATION
Urban College of Boston
towards a degree in early childhood education
AN ECE EDUCATOR SINCE
2015
JOINED FIRST CIRCLE
April 2025

Manoosh V.

Children are pure love. I do my best in everything I can. Singing, dancing, art and crafts, coloring and painting, playing, and reading books. I want families to know that I love their children very much and I am very kind to them. I would like children to learn to read and write their names, to make their own book with their own words.

I am originally from Iran. I now live in Lexington with my sister.

Matt Cole
EDUCATION
Winona State University
elementary education
AN ECE EDUCATOR SINCE
2016
JOINED FIRST CIRCLE
October 2016

Matt C.

Working with children brings a smile to my face every single day. Nothing makes me happier than to see a child truly enjoy themselves at school. Watching them grow, learn, play and become more confident in themselves everyday brings me a deep sense of pride. My favorite part of working with kids is having those small interactions, one on one, really getting to know what goes on inside their little minds.

I try my very best to come in every day with a positive attitude. Never hesitate to tell me all about how you and your child have been doing. I love to chat—maybe sometimes even a little too much!

I actually attended First Circle as a baby, until I was five years old. My first official job was as a teaching assistant at First Circle. I have also worked at a yoga studio, a gift shop, and a Montessori preschool.

Lexington born and raised, I love music and use singing and instruments regularly to create very fun dance parties!

Sara Poor
EDUCATION
Middlesex Community College
courses in early childhood education
AN ECE EDUCATOR SINCE
2008
JOINED FIRST CIRCLE
October 2008

Sara P.

I was inspired to work with young children because I love their curiosity, energy, and honesty. They see the world with excitement, and being part of those early learning moments is incredibly rewarding.

What I enjoy most is helping children grow—not just academically, but socially and emotionally. Creating a safe space where they feel confident to explore, ask questions, and try new things is very important to me.

Every day is different, and that’s what makes this work so special. Each child brings something unique, and knowing I can make a positive impact in their lives inspires me every day.

I bring my patient, experienced, and caring self to the classroom every day. After 18 years as a toddler three teacher, I’ve learned that consistency, warmth, and understanding are so important at this age. I stay calm, positive, and attentive, knowing that toddlers are learning how to express themselves, build independence, and navigate big emotions.

I want parents and families to know that I truly care about their children. I see each child as an individual with their own personality, strengths, and needs. My goal is to create a safe, loving environment where children feel comfortable, confident, and excited to learn. I value open communication and partnership with families, because working together helps every child grow and thrive.

One of my greatest areas of expertise is my deep understanding of toddlers and their development. After many years working with this age group, I recognize how they learn, communicate, and process their emotions. I understand that toddlers are building independence while still needing guidance, reassurance, and structure.
I am especially strong in setting healthy boundaries and clear expectations. Toddlers thrive when they know what is expected of them and feel secure in consistent routines. I provide gentle but firm guidance that helps them learn self-control, respect for others, and confidence in their abilities. By balancing warmth with structure, I create an environment where children feel safe, supported, and ready to grow.

When I’m not working, I like to travel, be with family and friends, and hang with my dog Sadie