Nurturing Young

Minds Daily

Family

Family is at the heart of Wee Care Nursery School. We actively partner with parents and caregivers to create a supportive, trusting community where every child and family feels valued and included.

Intellectual Development

We nurture each child’s intellectual growth through hands-on learning, exploration, and curiosity. Our educators provide engaging experiences that build knowledge, problem-solving skills, and a love of learning.

Social Development

We foster each child’s social development by encouraging cooperation and empathy. Through guided interactions and group activities, children build friendships, respect others, and feel confident in community.

About Us

The Place Where Children Become Scholars

Wee Care Nursery School is a nurturing early learning community where children are valued, supported, and inspired to explore. Our experienced educators create a warm, engaging environment that encourages independence, creativity, and curiosity. We believe every child is unique and deserves daily opportunities to grow socially, emotionally, physically, and intellectually.

Through meaningful play, structured activities, and hands-on learning, children develop confidence, critical thinking skills, and a lifelong love of learning. We partner closely with families to foster strong relationships, open communication, and a sense of belonging. At Wee Care Nursery School, every child and family is welcomed as part of our supportive community, where learning is joyful, discovery is encouraged, and each child’s potential is celebrated.

Nurturing Young

Minds Daily

Family

Family is at the heart of Wee Care Nursery School. We actively partner with parents and caregivers to create a supportive, trusting community where every child and family feels valued and included.

Intellectual Development

We nurture each child’s intellectual growth through hands-on learning, exploration, and curiosity. Our educators provide engaging experiences that build knowledge, problem-solving skills, and a love of learning.

Social Development

We foster each child’s social development by encouraging cooperation and empathy. Through guided interactions and group activities, children build friendships, respect others, and feel confident in community.

About Us

The Place Where Children Become Scholars

Wee Care Nursery School is a nurturing early learning community where children are valued, supported, and inspired to explore. Our experienced educators create a warm, engaging environment that encourages independence, creativity, and curiosity. We believe every child is unique and deserves daily opportunities to grow socially, emotionally, physically, and intellectually.

Through meaningful play, structured activities, and hands-on learning, children develop confidence, critical thinking skills, and a lifelong love of learning. We partner closely with families to foster strong relationships, open communication, and a sense of belonging. At Wee Care Nursery School, every child and family is welcomed as part of our supportive community, where learning is joyful, discovery is encouraged, and each child’s potential is celebrated.

Why Choose Us?

We are a family-oriented facility. We believe that through a strong partnership with families, we can ensure each child’s needs are met. Our center is staffed with educated and qualified teachers who are eager to guide every child on their educational journey.

What Sets Us Apart?

We are a community-based organization that focuses on the “Whole Family.” By partnering with families, we provide the guidance, support, and resources needed for every family to thrive. Our dedicated staff ensures each family feels valued and supported.

Our Team

Guiding Growth, Inspiring Curiosity

Guiding Growth,
Inspiring Curiosity

At Wee Care Nursery School, our team is made up of passionate, dedicated, and highly qualified educators who are committed to nurturing every child’s growth. Each staff member brings experience, creativity, and a love for teaching, creating a safe and inspiring environment where children can explore, learn, and thrive. We work closely with families to ensure each child reaches their full potential.

Denieke Howard - Purnell

Executive Director

Melody Atkins

Site Director
(Wee Care Nursery School & Kindergarten)

Denae Slater

Wee Care

Melody Atkins

Site Director (Garden of Heaven)

Gabrielle McMillan

Wee Care

Denieke Howard-Purnell

I’m a lifelong learner. I have worked in the field of Early Childhood Education for over twenty years. I am passionate about building positive relationships with children, families, and educators. I have accepted this career as my Ministry; it brings me joy to provide a safe haven for your minds. I am a child advocate and believe that it is imperative to support educators of young children. I currently hold a BA-Family Studies, M. ED, and Infant -Toddler Specialist License, PEL, and have earned a State Recognition of IT Level 5, & ECE Level 6. I have had the pleasure to employ as an adjunct Professor with City Colleges of Chicago and host panels to advocate for the field of ECE.

Melody Atkins Fonville

My name is Melody Atkins Fonville, and I have been dedicated to the childcare field for over 34 years — with 27 of those years right here at Wee Care. Supporting children as they learn, grow, and gain confidence has always been my greatest passion.

I hold a Preschool Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, which has helped me provide high-quality early learning experiences throughout my career.

Fun fact: I can recite the alphabet backwards from memory!

Denae Slater

Hi! My name is Denae Slater. I am a Teacher Assistant in the Busy Bee classroom at Wee Care Nursery School. I am passionate about working with young children and excited to continue growing in the field of early childhood education as I work toward becoming a licensed early childhood professional in Illinois.

I am a licensed paraprofessional and hold an Associate of Arts degree. I am currently pursuing my degree in Early Childhood Education to further enhance my skills and knowledge in supporting children’s development.

My birthday is just two days before Christmas — it’s always a festive celebration!

Gabrielle McMillan

Hello! My name is Gabrielle, but I prefer to go by Gabby. I am currently a Teacher Assistant at Wee Care, and I truly enjoy supporting young learners as they grow and discover new skills every day.

I hold a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, and I also have an Associate Degree in Medical Billing and Coding, which has given me a strong foundation in organization and detail-oriented work.

In my free time, I love relaxing with a good book — reading is one of my favorite ways to unwind!