Meet Our Staff

smallAmanda BartellHello, I am Amanda Bartell

I received my undergraduate degree in Sport and Recreation Administration from Edinboro University. After graduating, I moved to Columbia, Maryland in 2013 and worked in the Sports Division of Howard County Recreation and Parks for 8 years as a Recreation Program Supervisor. I oversaw the preschool sports, martial arts, gymnastics, youth soccer league, and pickleball programs along with a variety of other smaller programs, tournaments, and events for the department. I started with Cranberry Township in September of 2021 and oversee the preschool programs and a variety of sports programs. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with friends and family, traveling, camping, hiking and boating.

Jen Augustine preschool teacherHello, I am Jen Augustine

I am the Preschool Support Specialist and hold a degree in Elementary Education from Slippery Rock University and a degree in Finance from Bowling Green State University.  I have over 20 years’ experience teaching elementary and preschool age children. My husband and I have lived in Cranberry for 20 plus years. We have 3 grown children, Zane, Vince, and Toni. In my spare time I enjoy water Zumba, watching sports, and spending time with our 2 dogs. 

Laura Wise preschool teacherHello, I am Laura Wise

I teach Pre-kindergarten as well as 2 ½ year old preschool. I have been teaching for 12 plus years at the Early Learning Center. I have a Bachelor of Science Degree in Speech/Language Pathology from Clarion University of Pa and a Masters Degree in Deaf Education from Bloomsburg University of Pa. I am also the Head Varsity Coach for the Seneca Valley Cheer and Dance teams.  I’ve been a resident of Cranberry Township for over 18 years where I reside with my husband Bob. I have three children, Megan, Sean and Kathryn. In addition to teaching and coaching, I enjoy running, kayaking, reading and spending time with my family and friends.

carolcrunick.jpgHello, I am Carol Crunick

I am the Lead Teacher in the 3-year-old classroom.  I have worked at the Center for over five years, holding positions as an assistant teacher in the 2 ½, 3s, Pre-K, and most experience as Lead Teacher for the 3s.  I have a degree in Elementary Education and prior teaching experiences in preschool, elementary, and middle school levels, as well as directing after school programs.  I have lived in Cranberry for over 15 years with my husband and our two children.  Our son has a teaching degree in Elementary Education and our daughter is in college.  In my spare time I enjoy swimming, spending time with my family, and playing with our four cats!  

Megan Wise preschool teacherHello, I am Megan Wise

I teach the 4-day Pre-K program. This is my second-year teaching for the Early Learning Center. I have been a member of the Cranberry Township organization for 8 years now, and I have over 8 years of experience working with children. I went to Clarion University and studied Early Childhood Education. I am a Seneca Valley alumnus and still currently reside in Cranberry. I am the Head Coach for Middle School Cheer at S.V. In my free time I enjoy kayaking with my family, visiting my college friends, and spending time with my two dogs! I look forward to getting to know your children this school year!

jennifersteele.jpgHello, I am Jenn Steele

I am a lead teacher in my fifth year with the Early Learning Center. I have a degree in Elementary/Special Education from Slippery Rock University as well as a Master’s in Educational Leadership from George Mason University. I taught elementary school in Virginia for seven years before returning to Cranberry with my husband Ryan, son Matthew, and daughter Delaney. In my free time, I enjoy teaching art classes, hiking, camping, and going to amusement parks.


Debbie Lucci preschool teacherHello! I am Debbie Lucci

I am an Assistant Teacher for the Early Learning Center for the Pre-K and 2 ½ year old programs.  I have been working for Cranberry Township in Preschool as well as other programs for over 18 years. I have a business degree from West Virginia University.  I have lived in Cranberry Township with my husband and 3 daughters for almost 30 years.  In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, reading and bike riding. 

Cathy Dowler preschool teacherHello, I am Cathy Dowler

I have a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and a Master’s Degree in Early Childhood education.  My husband and I grew up in West Virginia and attended WVU.  I have several years of teaching experience in a variety of situations. In my spare time I enjoy walking, cooking, reading and ice cream!  I am thrilled to be part of such a wonderful preschool program!  


Hello, I am MeMegan Rybakgan Rybak

I am an assistant teacher for the Early Learning Center.  I attended Slippery Rock University and received my Bachelor’s Degree in Communications.   Previously, I worked at Highmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield as a Trainer for new hires. I have worked at the Cranberry Municipal Building for several years in the Playcenter where I supervised children.  I have lived in Cranberry Township for 15 years with my husband and 3 children. In my free time I enjoy spending time with my family and sitting poolside in the summer.

Lisa Borland preschool teacherHello, I am Lisa Borland

This is my 7th year working in the Early Learning Center. It is amazing to watch children grow, learn and mature throughout the school year. My husband and I have been living and raising our 3 children in Cranberry Township for 20 plus years. My children are currently enrolled in the Seneca Valley School District and enjoy playing soccer.  When I am not teaching or driving the carpool, I enjoy reading, movies, and dinner with friends. Some of my current favorites are author: Kristin Hannah, vacation spot: Hilton Head Island, restaurant: Panera Bread and my favorite activity is Go Ape Tree Tops course in North Park.

Kristin Watt preschool teacherHello, I am Kristin Watt

I am the assistant teacher for the 4-day Pre-K class. I have a degree in Psychology from Kent State University and have spent the last 4 years working in the 3-year-old classroom here at the Center. My husband, Eric and I have been married for 14 years and we have an awesome 13-year-old son, named Kian, who is a eighth grader at RGMS. We have lived in Cranberry Township for the last 5 years. In my free time, I enjoy baking and crafting things I find on Pinterest and exploring Pittsburgh with my family. I'm so very excited to be a part of the Early Learning Center Team!!