Brookfield
United Methodist Preschool
Mrs. Brandy Berena, director
Mrs. Berena is the Director of Brookfield United Methodist Preschool. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education from Youngstown State University and a Bachelor of Arts in Social Science from University of Pittsburgh. With more than 20 years of experience in early childhood education, Brandy is passionate about creating meaningful learning experiences for young children. She finds the greatest joy in watching a student’s “light bulb moment” the instant when a new concept truly clicks for the first time.
Mrs. Linda Barnot,
teacher assistant
Miss. Linda has worked in early childhood education since 1990 after earning her degree in Early Childhood Education. She owned and operated her own preschool for 14 years and also worked at several other preschools in the area before joining BUMP. She has been part of the BUMP family for the past seven years.
Although she has worked in a few different settings over the years, she always found herself returning to preschool education. She loves the children’s innocence, excitement, and especially their enthusiasm for learning something new. Every day brings something different and is filled with joy and happiness.
Mrs. Lovie Zarlinski, teacher
Mrs. Zarlinski has been a valued member of the B.U.M.P. staff for more than 20 years. She spent her first 10 years serving as a classroom aide before transitioning into her current role as a classroom teacher. Mrs. Zarlinski holds certifications in CPR, First Aid, and Child Abuse Recognition and Prevention, while also meeting all state requirements for preschool educators.
She enjoys watching children learn, grow, and gain confidence throughout the school year. Mrs. Zarlinski is continually amazed by how much children develop both academically and socially in just nine short months.
Mrs. Lauren Samios,
teacher assistant
Mrs. Samios (“Mrs. S.”) joined B.U.M.P. as a teacher’s assistant in 2023. She holds a degree in Civil Engineering from Ohio Northern University. During the years spent raising her two daughters and supporting their busy schedules, she discovered a passion for early childhood education. Her favorite part of each day is seeing the excitement and joy the children bring when they arrive at school.
Mrs. Kelly Morocco,
teacher
Kelly has worked in early childhood education for over 25 years and holds an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education. She began her career at Trumbull Memorial Hospital Preschool in 2001, where she later earned her administrative certification. Kelly joined Brookfield United Methodist Preschool in 2021. She believes young children are growing adults who need care, attention, and love, and feels it is the role of teachers to provide a nurturing environment where every child can learn and grow.
