Get to know our talented team
Our team has over 25 years of experience within children’s education and focuses on utilizing a variety of curriculum that integrates the latest insights into how children most effectively learn. This approach enables children to face the ever-changing world with the tools and skills that they need to thrive.
Ms. Ortiz, Founder & Educator
My name is Amy Ortiz and I have been teaching for over 25 years. I graduated from Wayne State University in Elementary Education, graduate work in Reading and Language Arts from Oakland University, along with courses and endorsements in Early Childhood. I have taught many grade levels but have found a love for the littles and preschool. I love to teach and care for children in a motivational way that is understanding of all students’ needs.
I have two amazing grown children, both raised through Birmingham schools since Preschool. Benjamin, is 23 and a graduate of Loyola University Chicago working and living his best life in Chicago. My daughter Lily, is 21 and a junior at Michigan State University. I am extremely vested in our community.
I love to continue to learn and add new things to my toolbox even still. I just finished an Orton-Gillingham training for the preschool age along with continuously collaborating with my colleagues. I also absolutely love rich and diverse children's literature as many of my lessons are extensions of great books that are incorporate into our daily lessons and beautiful art. At the preschool age my goal is to raise good people; make eye contact, do the coat flip, peal a cutie along with shapes, colors etc. / all things to prepare them for a wonderful kindergarten year. Mostly, to love to go to school as they come running up the sidewalk!
Mrs. Christina Wascha, Lead Teacher
My name is Christina Wascha and I have been teaching for over 15 years, 9 in Early Education which is my passion. I graduated from Aquinas College with a BA in Sociology and a Minor in Education. I then went on to Madonna University where I earned my Teaching Certificate. I started my career in Elementary education but quickly fell in love with preschool when I was asked to take over as a long term sub for my daughter's preschool class. I have only grown to love teaching this age over the years! I have been married for over 18 years to my wonderful husband, Chris. We have 3 beautiful children, CJ is a junior at Seaholm, Callie is a freshman at Seaholm and Cole is in 5th grade at Quarton elementary. We love to have family movie nights, Pizza Fridays, game nights and travel to warm places! We also have a mini Goldendoodle named Skittles who is a huge part of our lives!
My passion for early education really comes from my love for planting the early foundations to help each child grow, learn and reach their full potential. We all learn in different ways but the key is, we all can learn! At this age, my goal is to help children become part of their classroom community, learn to share, play cooperatively, work together to solve problems, learn manners, learn how to self advocate and most of all to nurture their love for learning!
Miss Dana, Assistant Teacher
Hello, my name is Miss Dana! I am an Assistant teacher at Ortiz EduCare. I graduated from DePauw University with a Bachelor of Arts, specializing in gender studies. I have a unique perspective that allows me to extend boundaries of traditional knowledge, understanding that each child has differing levels of academic and social needs. I grew up in Birmingham, MI, graduating from Seaholm High School. I have been with Ortiz EduCare for a year. My passion for teaching began at a young age, tutoring fellow peers and my younger siblings in a variety of subjects. I have also nannied for children throughout high school. The most rewarding part of being a teacher is watching our students develop a lifelong love for learning. I look forward to continuing this rewarding experience as a preschool teacher.
Mrs. Gappy, Assistant Teacher
Hello, Hello, my name is Sheila Gappy and I am thrilled and honored to be joining the Ortiz EduCare family! I am a recently retired educator of 30+ years. I am a certified elementary K-8 teacher and have taught preschool - 8th grade. I graduated from Eastern Michigan University with my BS in elementary education, English and science, and received my Masters in Teaching and Curriculum degree from Michigan State University. I spent 30 years teaching English, Literature and Science to 6th, 7th and 8th graders in the Farmington Public School system. Reading and science are my passions and I have led many reading and science initiatives throughout my career, including the outdoor environmental education program for Farmington Public Schools.
I am married to my awesome husband Hans, and have three equally awesome adult children! We live in Royal Oak, where our children attended Shrine Catholic Schools from elementary school through high school graduation. Ian is 24 and a graduate of MSU, he lives and works in the area, in finance. He recently proposed to his fiance, and they are planning a fall 2024 wedding! Noah is 21 and starting his senior year at Western Michigan University, studying Digital Marketing. Ava is 19 and beginning her sophomore year at Loyola University Chicago, in their nursing program. And we are all mad, crazy in love with our sweet girl, a Bulldoggle pup, named Harley!
I can’t tell you what a gift it is for me to be able to spend time with these precious and curious little learners. Watching them grow, problem solve, and experience the world is a privilege I am grateful for each day.
Ms. Sonya, Assistant Teacher
Hello! My name is Ms. Sonya and I have been an Assistant Teacher at Ortiz EduCare for over a year now. I graduated from Wayne State and received my Law degree from University of Detroit Mercy School of Law. I have been a practicing criminal defense attorney in the metro Detroit area for 26 years. I reside here in Birmingham, MI. My children attended and graduated from Seaholm High School, going on to seek higher education. The unmatchable joy I experienced while raising my children cultivated my passion for teaching. I strive to nurture a desire for independent thought, respect for others, and enduring curiosity in young learners. I am eager to continue this journey with Ortiz EduCare.