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UKids – Sunnyside

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Our Staff

Learn about the wonderful teaching staff at UKids - Sunnyside!  Within all classrooms there are assistants that work with the lead teachers to create a warm and positive environment that meets the needs of each child. At times we also have student teachers/interns participating in the classroom through the Department of Family and Consumer Studies. All staff members are encouraged to contribute ideas and experiences to the center. All staff, substitutes, students, and volunteers go through a state background check as required by Child Care Licensing.

Our Classrooms

Center Administration

Picture of Courtney Christenson, the Administrative Program Assistant of UKids - Sunnyside

 

 

Picture of Melissa Curtis, the Program Assistant for UKids - Sunnyside

 

Courtney Christenson - Administrative Program Manager

Courtney is the Administrative Program Manager at UKids - Sunnyside with 15 years of experience in the childcare field. She holds an Associate Degree from Dixie State University and has a strong passion for supporting children as they learn and grow in their own unique ways. Outside of work, Courtney enjoys spending time outdoors biking, boating, surfing, and water skiing. She is married and a proud mom of three children and a dog.

 

 

 


Melissa Curtis - Program Assistant

Melissa is the Program Assistant at UKids-Sunnyside with 10 years experience in childcare and teaching programs. They have a Bachelor’s Degree from Utah State University which covers child development and other related fields. In their free time, they enjoy a quiet day in with a video game or book, a warm blanket, and their cats. They truly enjoy teaching children and watching them learn and grow.

 

Caterpillar Classroom

 

Elysha sitting on a tree branch

Miss Elysha - Lead Teacher

Hi! My name is Elysha Cash. I have a BS in Psychology and am currently in the Masters of Social Work program. From working in monkey research on attachment to working in maternal health research, I have always been interested in fostering children’s development and enjoy doing just that here at Sunnyside. In my limited free time, I like to read and spend time with friends.

 

 

Lilyan wearing a pink sweater and jeans next to a brown baby cow

Miss. Lilyn- Lead Teacher

Hello! My name is Lilyn (like Lillian but spelled weird)! Ever since I was little, I have loved taking care of children around me. I am the oldest cousin so as soon as I was old enough, I started babysitting quite often. For my 15th birthday my aunt enrolled me in a babysitting course and CPR/First Aid class so I could up my skills! When I graduated high school, I started to work at an elementary school as a Special Education Aide and then transferred to be a Behavior Coach working with all students from Kindergarten to 6th grade on social and emotional skills. Working with children of all ages and abilities has always been a passion of mine! I took a "for fun" detour while working as a behavior coach and got my Esthetician license from Davis Technical College! I love hanging out with my husband, Disneyland, and being outdoors!
 

Ladybug Classroom

Marlee in front of a grey background

 

Picture of Heidi, a lead teacher for the Ladybug class holding a butterfly

Miss Marlee - Lead Teacher

Hi I’m Marlee! I’ve worked for UKids since September of 2022. I'm currently getting a bachelors of science in human development and family studies. In my free time I like to paint and spend time with friends and family.

 

 

 

Miss Heidi- Lead Teacher

Hello I'm Heidi Buhler I’m from Taylorsville Utah I have been in early childhood education for 5 1/2 years and have loved every second! I have taught in preschools, childcare’s summer camps, and head starts. I am finishing up my degree in child development at Utah state. I have been at UKids since September 2025 and have been having so much fun!

 

Bumblebee Classroom

 

Leila standing above the Horseshoe Bend at Glen Canyon National Regreation Area

Miss Leila- Lead Teacher

My name is Leila. I have been working at UKids since 2025 as a lead teacher. I love supporting young children’s growth and creating a warm, caring environment where they feel safe and valued. I truly enjoy working with children and helping them learn through play and exploration.

Outside of work, I enjoy sports and staying active, love traveling and spending time with my family.

 

 

 

Cricket Classroom

Lizzy standing in front of a lake with boats in the background

Miss Lizzy- Lead Teacher

Hello! I am Ms. Lizzy! I graduated with my Bachelor's in Early Childhood Education from Utah State and I have never worked a job that wasn't in childcare or education. I love helping children learn and watching them develop new skills and ideas through play! Creating an environment of curiosity and fun is one of my goals in the classroom!

 

 

Last Updated: 6/23/26