Our mission at LEAP is to nurture curious, confident children through play based learning that honors each child’s individuality. We believe children learn best through exploration, creativity, and meaningful relationships in a safe, joyful environment.
Amanda Carmello - Director/Lead Instructor
Mrs. Carmello studied Early Childhood Education at Auburn University where she met her husband, Chris. Amanda has led 2 and 3 year old preschool classes for the past twenty-six years. She loves to teach this age and receives so much joy every day from her preschoolers.
The Carmello family has lived in Auburn for 30 years where they are raising their three daughters Cameron, Emma, and Avery. Amanda enjoys family time, the beach, and reading her Kindle. War Eagle!
Emily Matz - Assistant Instructor
Mrs. Matz has been working with children for over 25 years. She graduated from the University of Memphis with a degree in Elementary Education. She began her career in Memphis, TN teaching Special Education. It wasn’t until she moved to Auburn 16 years ago when she realized her true passion for preschool. She has shared a preschool classroom with Mrs. Carmello for the past twelve years and is excited to continue this journey together.
Emily has two boys, Graham and Reid with her husband, Brad. When Emily is not chasing her boys around, you can find her chasing after her golden retriever, Hudson.
Lauren Self - Lead Instructor
Mrs. Self graduated from The University of Alabama at Birmingham with a degree in Early Childhood and Elementary Education. She taught kindergarten for four years in Hoover, Alabama. After a break in teaching to start her family, Lauren returned to the classroom and taught preschool for over a year before creating a preschool of her own.
Lauren has been married to her high school sweetheart since 2006. They have lived in Auburn for eleven years where they are raising their two daughters, Laci and Lynleigh. During her free time, Mrs. Self enjoys family time, traveling, camping, cooking, and reading. Early Childhood Education is Mrs. Self's passion and she loves her many preschool adventures with her Lily Pad Class.