About Us

Nancy Bifulco, Director, 2’s and PreK Teacher – Nancy is in her tenth year as director of the preschool program. She taught in the PreK class before becoming director. Nancy is a very proud graduate of the program, back in its earlier days. She has degrees in Elementary Education and Accounting, so the director position is a wonderful job for her, combining both her passion for children with her enjoyment of management.

Nancy is a lifelong member of First United Methodist Church. She has been actively involved in the Sunday school program, has served on many work areas, and has played in the handbell choir for over 30 years. She is married to Ed, a chiropractor who teaches at a university. She and Ed are the proud parents of Olivia, who is a college junior this year at the University of Kentucky.  Nancy and Ed are suffering from empty next syndrome.  They miss going to all of Olivia’s sporting events – Their three dogs, Junior, Maisy, and Winston keep the Bifulco household hopping!

Elizabeth Torrisi, 3/4 teacher – What do you want to be when you grow up?  A question a child hears throughout the years until finally in the career office of your chosen university you decide.  At least in Elizabeth’s case, that is how her story begins, in the career office at Dominican University. She knew from an early age that her greatest desire was to have a family.  So finding the balance between the two, family and career, began for her long before she was married, before she had children, and long before she had any real idea of the challenges of balancing family and work.  Elizabeth holds two certifications in education, K-6 and 6-12 with a middle school endorsement. She taught four year old preschool at Union Church in Hinsdale. She also teaches religious education at her parish.

Elizabeth is married to her husband Carm and together they have four girls:  Gessica, Jacqueline, Gianna, and Juliette. One of them is in college right now and the other three have graduated.  They live in LaGrange Park where they are busy with everything from dance, golf, music lessons, and homework.  She makes time to watch Poldark, and when time allows, she enjoys reading and loves to cook. She is truly grateful to be working at Maple Methodist.

JoAnn Haemmerle – PreK teacher – My name is JoAnn Haemmerle.  I have a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and a Master’s degree in Education.  I am also a certified Reading Specialist. I have taught preschool, first grade, and second grade.  I really enjoy the excitement that children have for learning and for developing friendships. As a preschool teacher, I am particularly excited to be able to provide a positive classroom experience at an early age in order to form the foundation for future years of learning.

Some of my interests are cooking, traveling, and shopping.  I also enjoy walking, reading, and spending time with my family.  I live in Downers Grove with my husband and have four children.

Kylie Spahn – PreK teacher – I love teaching in the PreK class at Maple Methodist.  I live in Downers Grove and I am married with two daughters who attended our preschool many years ago.  I am very, very passionate about education and the importance of play based learning.  Preschool is such a special time for our little ones as they navigate social learning and begin their academic journey.  I greatly appreciate you trusting me to teach your precious ones and look forward to a fun filled school year.