about IE sTEM

“ How do top-performing students get ahead in the fast-changing world? ”

About Innovation & Exploration

They start early—at a place where curiosity is cherished, science is second nature, and children are nurtured to think big from the very beginning.

STEM curriculum for toddlers | STEM preschool
STEM preschool

Our Mission & Philosophy

At Innovation & Exploration STEM Early Learning Center, we believe early childhood isn’t just a stage—it’s the starting line for a lifetime of discovery.

Our teachers are more than educators they’re dream igniters.

Our expert team blends passion, experience, and warmth to inspire a love for STEM. More than teachers, they’re mentors who guide, cheer, and grow alongside your child.

IE Staffs

Norda Overpeck, M.Ed., LBS

Director at Huntingdon Valley

With over 15 years in early childhood education, Norda brings deep expertise and passion to her role. She holds a Master’s in Education with a focus on Special Education, a graduate certificate in Autism, and is a licensed Behavior Specialist in Pennsylvania. Norda has led STEM workshops at state conferences and serves on multiple advisory boards, including the PA State Advisory Council on Early Childhood. Her master’s thesis focused on implementing STEM in preschool, and her dedication to hands-on, inquiry-based learning continues to inspire both students and educators alike.

Parents Membership

Virginia Ruschelle Lindsay

Director – Elkins Park

Known affectionately as Ms. Ruschelle, she brings 19 years of experience and a deep love for her Elkins Park community, where she’s lived for over 27 years. A proud mother of two and a passionate early childhood educator, she is currently furthering her studies in ECE. Ms. Ruschelle brings warmth, creativity, and a love for hands-on STEM learning into every classroom moment, nurturing each child with care and intention.

Jennifer Moser

Director – Warrington

Miss Jen brings over a decade of experience and a vibrant energy to her role as Director. From teacher to leader, she has grown with IE, combining her dual degrees in Early Childhood and Special Education from Temple University with her passion for STEM. Her mission is simple: help every child thrive—academically, emotionally, and socially. Her joy in teaching shines through her dedication, mentorship, and commitment to excellence.

Robyn Hilliard

Lead Teacher

Robyn combines her scientific background in Marine Biology and Chemistry with a Master’s in STEM Education to create dynamic, real-world learning experiences. Her career spans pre-K to high school, and she thrives on fostering creativity, curiosity, and critical thinking. At home and school, she’s a natural teacher—supported by her active family, who often share in the learning journey.

Janice Lelis-Petrenko

Lead Teacher

Janice earned her Bachelor’s in Secondary Education and brings seven years of joyful teaching experience. She’s passionate about helping children bring their ideas to life through creative expression. Whether it’s building with blocks or painting with purpose, Janice celebrates every milestone. Outside the classroom, she enjoys gardening, cooking, and family walks in the park.

STEM preschool

Lindsay Bello

Assistant Director – Huntingdon Valley

Lindsay’s background in respiratory therapy and education uniquely equips her to support children with care and empathy. She’s completing her Bachelor’s in Elementary Education and brings experience as both a preschool teacher and special education assistant. A lover of books, beaches, and animals, she’s also volunteered in Africa at a wildlife reserve. Lindsay is passionate about nurturing every child’s potential in a safe and inspiring environment.

Parents Communication IE

Cindy

Lead Teacher

With over 25 years of teaching experience, Cindy brings a gentle, nurturing presence to her classroom. A certified Child Development Associate, she is passionate about literacy, photography, and connecting with children and families. As a proud grandmother, Cindy shares her love of learning and joy for life every day at IE.

Regina Agrusa

Teacher

Known by her students as Miss Gina, Miss G, or Miss Gigi, Regina has nearly a decade of classroom experience and a degree in Social Work. Her journey has included roles as an infant teacher, nanny, and early childhood counselor. Her warmth, energy, and love for children shine through in everything she does. She’s committed to ensuring every child feels seen, heard, and loved.

Rezika Ait Mohammed

Teacher

Rezika brings 10+ years of teaching experience, fluency in four languages (French, Arabic, English, and Tamazight), and a lifelong passion for education. Originally from Algeria, she has taught science and French abroad and worked with preschoolers in the U.S. Her work as an interpreter during the pandemic highlights her deep care for community and communication. She currently teaches at IE while working as a paraprofessional at a special education high school.

Nayana Puttaswamy

Teacher

Nayana is a dynamic blend of creativity and compassion. A preschool teacher, actor, and influencer, she brings artistic flair and heartfelt enthusiasm into her classroom. She’s passionate about inspiring young minds through play, storytelling, and imagination—all while being a devoted mom to her toddler.

Mrs. Trudy

STEM Learning Center

Pending bio details

STEM learning center

Ms. Samantha

STEM Learning Center

Pending bio details

Parents Communication IE

Cindy

Lead Teacher

With over 25 years of teaching experience, Cindy brings a gentle, nurturing presence to her classroom. A certified Child Development Associate, she is passionate about literacy, photography, and connecting with children and families. As a proud grandmother, Cindy shares her love of learning and joy for life every day at IE.

Mrs. Joyce

Spanish Language Teacher

A native of Ecuador, Mrs. Joyce holds a Master’s in Education and a degree in Economics from Queens College. She has over 13 years of experience teaching Spanish from pre-K through high school, including honors-level classes. Her passion for language and culture brings vibrant, meaningful learning to every classroom she leads.

Rezika Ait Mohammed

Teacher

Rezika brings 10+ years of teaching experience, fluency in four languages (French, Arabic, English, and Tamazight), and a lifelong passion for education. Originally from Algeria, she has taught science and French abroad and worked with preschoolers in the U.S. Her work as an interpreter during the pandemic highlights her deep care for community and communication. She currently teaches at IE while working as a paraprofessional at a special education high school.

STEM preschool
STEM preschool

Our Gardens & Classrooms

Preschool & Butterfly Gardens

Nature is one of our greatest teachers. That’s why our children dig, plant, water, and learn in hands-on gardens where STEM concepts come to life.

Our Gardens & Classrooms

Classroom Setup

Our classrooms are intentionally designed to feel like a second home—a place that’s safe, inspiring, and rich with opportunity.

STEM Learning Center
Language Development IE
STEM Learning Center
Language Development IE

Our Gardens & Classrooms

Classroom Setup

Our classrooms are intentionally designed to feel like a second home—a place that’s safe, inspiring, and rich with opportunity.

Our Locations

We proudly serve families across the region with multiple convenient locations, each upholding the same high standard of excellence:

warrington, PA

978 Valley Rd

Jenkintown, PA

400 Old York Rd

huntingdon valley, PA

1810 County Line Rd, Building 400 Suite 414

Our Locations

We proudly serve families across the region with multiple convenient locations, each upholding the same high standard of excellence:

warrington, PA

978 Valley Rd

Jenkintown, PA

400 Old York Rd

huntingdon valley, PA

1810 County Line Rd, Building 400 Suite 414

Why Parents Choose Us?

Ready to join a learning community that prepares your child for a brilliant future?

STEM preschool
STEM preschool

Why Parents Choose Us?

Ready to join a learning community that prepares your child for a brilliant future?