Meet the Team at Amore Preschool in Scottsdale
Elynn Colaianni – Preschool Director
My name is Elynn Colaianni, and I am the Director of Amore Preschool. Over the past three years I have had the privilege of working closely with our children, teachers, and families while helping guide the day to day life of our school community.
I was born in Montreal, Canada, and moved with my family to Scottsdale, Arizona in 1969, where I was raised. Although I have lived in other western states, the Desert Southwest has always felt like home. I am grateful to have a son and daughter, their wonderful spouses, and a young grandson whom our family absolutely adores.
My career in education spans more than 35 years. I began working as an Assistant Education Curator at the Phoenix Art Museum before continuing my work in museums and education. I earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art Education and Sculptural Metals from Arizona State University, a Master of Arts in the same field from California State University Long Beach, and a Master of Education in Secondary Education from Arizona State University.
In 2002 I began teaching art in both public and private schools, working with students from Pre K through 12th grade. These experiences shaped my belief that children learn best through creativity, exploration, and hands on experiences.
At Amore Preschool I am actively involved with our classrooms, teachers, and families each day. I believe strong communication with parents is essential and I always welcome conversations with families about their child’s development, classroom transitions, and any questions or concerns they may have. Supporting both our students and their families is one of the most meaningful parts of my role as director.
I have a deep appreciation for nature, the arts, and reading, along with a strong interest in health and wellness. Most of all, I believe children thrive when they are given the opportunity to explore their world through play, creativity, and discovery.
At Amore Preschool we celebrate each child’s unique strengths while encouraging curiosity, problem solving, and confidence. It is a privilege each day to help create a nurturing environment where children feel safe, supported, and excited to learn.
Ms. Jaylen - Assistant Director
Dahgot’éh! My name is Jaylen Parker and I come from the White Mountains on the Fort Apache Indian Reservation of the White Mountain Apache Tribe. I’ve always had a love for reading and playing sports growing up, and keep up with these hobbies today. This includes playing volleyball, basketball, and time in the gym! Growing up in the White Mountains gave me a love for the outdoors so I enjoy fishing, hiking, or just a drive through the mountains. My love for early childhood education began as a teen and has carried into my adult years as I’ve worked with kids for the past 5 years. My first 3 years were spent working with children at a rehab center on the reservation. After moving to the Valley, I continued my work with children while working on my degree in Early Childhood education. This brought me to Amore, where I have spent the past 2 years loving and teaching these brilliant children! Ashóóg ahìyééh!
Ms. Nelly - Pre K Teacher
Hey Hey Hey!! I am Ms.Nellie! I am the Pre-Kindergarten teacher at Amore! I have been teaching for 3 years but have been a part of childcare for over 6 years. I strive to make my classroom a home away from home. I truly believe every child is different and deserves an amazing teacher in their earlier years of learning, as that is when they begin their beautiful journey of education. We are the Cardinals and we strive to integrate new things, grow as a community, and most importantly have fun and learn a lot! In our classroom we focus on our fine and gross motor skills, numeracy, literacy, social and emotional skills, problem solving and following directions. We would love for YOU to be apart of our beautiful community.
Ms. Sarah - Preschool Teacher
Hey there! My name is Sarah Bock! I grew up in sunny Southern California before moving to Phoenix in my teen years. Growing up, I loved playing sports like basketball and softball, and was always a very avid reader! Reading continues to be a passion of mine to this day, and I’m so grateful to be able to share my love of literature with young learners! I’ve always known that I wanted to work in education, and focused heavily on childhood development while getting my degree in Psychology from UCLA. While in college, I spent lots of time leading an on-campus organization that benefited a women’s shelter in Santa Monica. I also devoted time to my growing interest in art, so it is not uncommon to find me doodling or coloring in my free time! After graduating, I found myself longing for a career that held meaning to me, and that’s when I found Amore Preschool! I have now worked at Amore for almost a year, and my work is my pride and joy! I love having the opportunity to help your children grow and learn!