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(815) 459-7299

Purple Moose Enrichment Preschool is conveniently located 485 Woodstock St., Crystal Lake. We offer a progressive, perpetually evolving curriculum that we research, develop and specialize for each age group.

Each month we introduce a new theme for our students to explore. Emphasis is placed on creativity, motor skills, social interaction and basic academics. Of course, FUN is part of the activities.Our teachers are DCFS qualified, hold a range of degrees and experience in Early Childhood Development and are fully committed to excellence in their profession. Our team cares about your child.

Our Staff

Anna Linscheid
Director
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Anna Linscheid has been the heart and soul of Purple Moose Enrichment Preschool since January 2010, blending her corporate savvy from nine years in IT sales (hello, CDW and Dell!) with her lifelong passion for early childhood education. Over the years, Anna has transformed the Moose into a vibrant, community-driven preschool that’s as much about fun and creativity as it is about learning.

With her co-director, Miss Wendy, stepping into a more hands-on role in the daily care of The Moose, the duo has created a dynamic partnership that ensures every child feels loved, supported, and inspired. Together, they’ve built a program that’s as nurturing as it is innovative, rooted in the belief that every child deserves a joyful start to their educational journey.

What truly sets Purple Moose apart is the incredible love and support of the Crystal Lake community. Thanks to our amazing families and neighbors, we’ve been able to grow, evolve, and even move around this sweet city we call home. Whether we’re exploring new spaces or deepening our roots, our commitment to providing exceptional early childhood education has never wavered.

Anna, Miss Wendy, and the entire Purple Moose team invite you to come see what makes our preschool so special. From our playful curriculum to our warm, welcoming environment, we’re proud to be a place where little learners thrive and big dreams begin!

Wendy Sessler
Director/Teacher
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Hello, my name is Wendy Sessler. This is my second year, of directing at Purple Moose. I also teach the Explorers class and Enrichment class, as teaching will forever be my passion. I have been part of the Purple Moose family for 17 years . I enjoy spending time with my friends and family, especially my one year old grandson. When I am not at Purple Moose, you will find me boating, kayaking, swimming, camping, gardening, walking or planning my next beach trip.

Carlie Patton
Teacher
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My name is Carlie Patton. This is currently my 5th year as a Purple Moose Enrichment Preschool Teacher. I am an Explorers Class Teacher and I work with the 4/5 age group. I think our name is perfect for what I do. We explore daily as we learn. So much fun is packed into our days and the best compliment I get is I don't want to go home yet! My outside interests are photography and traveling.

Alaina Guenther
Teacher
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My name is Alaina Guenther, I am a lead teacher for the Trailblazers and an assistant teacher with the Naturalist at Purple Moose! I have always had such a passion for caring for young children growing up, even though I am the youngest of four kids! This is my second year teaching at Purple Moose and I am thrilled to continue learning along with all my students and getting to know all of their families! Looking forward to a wonderful year!

Lauren MacShane
Teacher Assistant
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My name is Lauren MacShane and this is my third year at Purple Moose. I am excited to again be an assistant teacher with Miss Carlie and the Explorer's along with joining Miss Kelly and the Naturalist's! Alongside to Purple Moose I am also a part-time Nanny. I have been working in childcare for the last 6 years but before that I had been a certified Veterinary Assistant for over 6 years. I still have a strong love for animals, and when I'm not working, I love spending time with my pets. I am originally from Crystal Lake but am currently settled near historic Woodstock. I'm looking forward to another great school year and getting to know more amazing kids and their families here at Purple Moose!

Brianna Manson
Teacher Assistant
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My name is Brianna Manson. I have been in childcare for 8 years. I have worked with children as young as newborns all the way to preteens. I have a passion for early childhood development. I love working with children, as well as being part of their growth. I grew up in Crystal Lake and continue to call this lovely town home! I have been working with Purple Moose since December of 2021. I have worked with the Trailblazers and the Naturalists. I am so proud to be part of this amazing school and moose family! This year I will be working with Miss. Alaina and Miss. Abby as a teacher's assistant in both Trailblazers room’s. I look forward to meeting you all and another great year!

Be well,
Brianna Manson

Cassie Piemontese
Teacher & Teacher Assistant
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My name is Cassie Piemontese. I am going to be the assistant in the explorers room with Wendy. I have worked at the moose in the past and had to leave for a little due to health reasons but am very excited to be back . I have 20 years of childcare experience . I have worked as a babysitter, nanny, substitute teacher, and daycare worker. I am a mom of 3 children ages 13, 11, and 4 they are my world . We love animals and have quite a bit . I am working on my associates degree and am almost finished and than will continue school to obtain my bachelor's degree. I love coffee and bike riding as well as crafting and spending time with family.

Cheryl Covert
Teacher Assistant
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Hi I'm Cheryl. I have recently joined Purple Moose and have enjoyed teaching during this years summer camps. I have been in child card for 8+ years, as an assistant teacher and teacher. I will be in the Aventurers class. I reside in Cary, but have lived in 8 different states. I have 2 children who are talented musicians and athletes. My daughter and her husband have 2 children who are my everything! I enjoy the outdoors, hiking, kayaking, and enjoy art and going to concerts.

Abby Kakish
Teacher & Teacher Assistant
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Hi, my name is Miss. Abby Kakish, and I will be teaching the trailblazers class on Tuesday and Thursday with Miss. Brianna. I have a Bachelor’s degree in English. I have lived in Crystal Lake for 17 years and I have three children, One in college and two in high school. Prior to Purple Moose I was a substitute teacher at a couple of schools in Crystal Lake area. I enjoy going on walks, cooking, and spending time with my family and friends. I’m looking forward to meeting your children and helping them learn and grow.

Lisa Knoeppel
Teacher
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Hello! My name is Lisa Knoeppel and I’m so excited to start my position at Purple Moose as the Adventurers teacher with Miss Cheryl! I graduated from EIU with a marketing degree but have been teaching preschool for over 20 years! I have 3 grown boys and 2 granddaughters. I am an avid Cubs and Bears fan! In my free time I like walking my crazy yellow lab named Annie, playing games, reading, or watching movies! I’m excited to be working here with this great group of teachers and can’t wait to start the school year!

Lisa Kobeluch
Teacher
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My name is Lisa Kobeluch and this is my first year at Purple Moose. For the last 10 years, I worked in District 47 and am looking forward to this new adventure! I cannot wait to get to know the students and their families. Watching children learn brings me so much joy! Outside of school, I love to be with my family - especially attending my high school son's baseball games and spending time with my daughter when she's home from college. In the summer, it is all about the outdoors, Chicago Cubs, and Door County!

Amy Letto
Teacher Assistant
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My name is Amy Letto, and I am the assistant in Miss Kelly's Trailblazer class. I am a mom of 3 college students and 4 dogs. In my spare time I love reading and playing pickleball. I was a stay-at-home mom (and parent volunteer at school) for many years. I worked in District 47 for a year before I decided I loved preschool age! I can't wait to watch the kids grow this school year!

Summer Camp Registration Now Open!

Click to learn more and register for summer camp at Purple Moose!