The 2026-2027 incredible staff of AAUW Preschool!
Denise Romero
AAUW Preschool Director
Hi, I’m Denise Romero. I have lived in Waukegan my entire life and attended AAUW Preschool as a student in the early 80's. I hold an Associate of Arts Degree in Early Childhood Education and have been part of the AAUW teaching team for 23 years. I’m now proud to also serve as Director. I married my high school sweetheart 22 years ago and we have two sons who also attended AAUW Preschool. I love reading, dancing, baking and spending time with my family. Feel free to call or email if you would like to connect with me directly!
Diana Baldez
Teacher: Explorers Class
Hello! This is my 11th year working with children and families and my second year working at AAUW Preschool in the Explorers classroom. I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education with a Minor in Reading from the University of Houston, a Master’s degree in Educational Administration from New York University (NYU) and an ECE Credential Level 5. While raising my children at home, I also helped with classroom book studies, classroom newspapers and coached Science Olympiad and Destination Imagination in Grayslake schools. At AAUW I love working with the 2-3 year-olds and I am so amazed watching all the growth that occurs during this milestone year. My belief is that "a classroom environment that reflects warmth, kindness, joy and the influence of each child’s personality and interests" is best. I have three sons, a daughter-in-law, a new puppy and a wonderful husband who is involved in the field of education law. In my spare time I love traveling, creating art and spending time with my friends, puppy and family!
Runa Barr
Teacher
Hi there! I'm Miss Runa! I started working at AAUW in 2025, and I am going to be co-teaching the Voyagers class and assisting in Discovery. I am originally from Charlottesville, Virginia and I moved to Lake County in 2018. I graduated with my BA from Chatham University in Pittsburgh, PA in 2012, where I studied Early Childhood & Elementary Education. Working with little ones is my life’s passion and early childhood is by far my favorite age to engage with! My teaching philosophy is Reggio-inspired and play-based, emphasizing student ownership, empowerment and autonomy. In my spare time, I love to read, craft, go geocaching and spend time with my husband and our four silly cats. The easiest way to get in touch with me is through Seesaw or via e-mail at missruna@AAUWPreschool.org. Please don't hesitate to contact me with questions or concerns. I can't wait to spend the year getting to work with you and your wonderful children!
Amanda Wagner
Teacher
Hello! My name is Amanda Wagner. This is my second year as a lead teacher for the Adventure Class at AAUW Preschool. I currently reside in Gurnee with my two daughters, husband and two cats. I have a bachelor's degree in Family Studies and a Master's in Elementary Education. I love music, being outside, the color teal and coffee. I am so excited to get to know everyone this year!
