Our Teachers
Donna Schwartze has been the Director/Teacher at ICNS since 1986. She has a bachelor's and master's degree in Elementary Education from the University of Connecticut. After a wide variety of jobs and trial occupations, she discovered preschool and has been happily working with the children and families at ICNS ever since.
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Ms. Donna has been married to her husband, Mike, since 1973. They have three adult children from whom she has learned patience, humility, and strength. (plus 2 daughters-in-law and one delightful granddaughter) She is passionate about letting her preschool students have fun while learning and hopes to provide each child the skills and experiences needed to become lifelong learners and responsible citizens of the world. Besides the joy of working with the children, Ms. Donna feels very fortunate for the opportunity to work with the parents and families in the classroom who have greatly enriched her life.
Tanya Sutkowi has been with ICNS since 1994. She started as the teacher assistant in the extended day class and has since earned her ECE certificate from Irvine Valley College. Ms. Tanya has had many job titles at ICNS and continues to be a valuable member of the staff through her support of the school philosophy, her knowledge of child development, and her working knowledge of all things ICNS. She brings creative fun to the Parent & Me class. Her sweet nature makes her a favorite of all the children. Ms. Tanya has two adult daughters and one grandson.
Bushra Rashid, who has been teaching at ICNS since 2009. She received her Early Childhood Education certificate from Irvine Valley College. She enjoys teaching little ones and engaging parents in classroom activities.
Ms. Bushra taught Parent & Me classes for several years before becoming a teacher alongside Ms. Donna. She is an expert at curating curriculum that enhances young minds through mindful experiences and play. She engages the children with lots of games and her joyful, loving attitude.
Outside of the classroom, Ms. Bushra enjoys traveling, cooking, and spending time with family. Ms. Bushra and her husband have three children, two of whom are ICNS graduates.
Six of the teachers' children are alumni of ICNS!