About Us
Our Origin Story
Little Heroes' origin story begins, as all great superhero stories do, from a response to a need by those with the lived experience to do something different. Co-founders Jessica van Zwol and Nancy Miramontes, are two moms who decided that young children deserve to begin their educational journeys in safe, nurturing, and empowering environments. The preschool age is such a critical developmental season, and many programs seemed to be missing an important self-concept component to learning. As a homeschooling mom of 15 years, Jessica understood the power of one-on-one attention and experiential learning in a child's educational experience. She witnessed, first-hand, what happens when a kind, nurturing and engaged parent is also a child's teacher. As a BYU Professor and Education Specialist with 14 years of experience working in public education, and supervising school psychology students across the state of Utah, Nancy understood the growing social and emotional demands facing young children and families in our communities. A response to these needs became clear for these two moms and they decided to take their "porch talks," to another level -- to act in support of families by supporting the youngest of learners.
Miss Jessica, Preschool Director and Lead Teacher
Our preschool director, and co-founder, Jessica van Zwol comes to Little Heroes from a long career as a dedicated homeschooling mom. She is a mother of five children, with two decades of homeschooling experience where she taught with love, patience and intentionality. Jessica believes in honoring a child's untapped potential to support them along their individual journey. Jessica finds joy in empowering kids to be their own superhero. She is CPR certified, and has a love for health and wellness. She believes that education should be tailored to each individual child and no potential should ever be limited.
Miss Nancy, Curriculum Director
Our curriculum director and co-founder, Nancy Miramontes comes to Little Heroes from Brigham Young University where she works as a graduate trainer in the McKay School's Education Specialist (e.g., school psychology) program. As a school psychologist of 14 years, Nancy understands that children need safe, nurturing environments to thrive not just academically but emotionally and socially as well. She has written curricula for organizations like Latinos in Action and Quickclass.com, and hopes to support the youngest, most vulnerable populations, to begin their educational careers with love and fun.
Miss Emilia, Teacher Assistant and Arts Coordinator
Our senior teacher assistant and arts coordinator, Miss Emilia, comes to Little Heroes from UVU where she is studying video production. Emilia has several years of experience working in childcare settings both privately and publicly. She has worked for the child watch center at the Springville Rec Center and has professionally cared for children with various special needs. She is creative, plays multiple instruments, and has a deep appreciation for the arts. Emilia is fun, gentle, and kind. She is CPR certified and brings unparalleled patience and love to our preschool. She is excited to share her love of music and art with your little ones.
Miss Katelyn, Teacher Assistant
Our teacher assistant, Miss Katelyn, comes to little heroes from a family of 10 children where she has learned to care for children in deeply loving and fun ways! Katelyn is BYU bound (planning to major in ASL) and hoping to serve a mission for the LDS church in the coming years. She is excited to be at Little Heroes where she has an opportunity to further her childcare experiences. Katelyn is CPR certified, has worked as a lifeguard promoting safety and has been on the Springville High School ballroom competition team. She looks forward to bringing her love of dance and choreography to inspire the youngest of students!