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Dr. Jill Andrews – Founder & Administrator
Kiddie Kollege of Fairfield was founded by Dr. Jill Andrews in 1996. Andrews received a Ph.D. in higher education administration from Southern Illinois University in 1995 and also holds a Level III Illinois Director Credential. She is the president and was a charter member of Southern Illinois Early Childhood Action Team, Inc., a not-for-profit association serving the bottom third of Illinois early childhood professionals. Prior to building Kiddie Kollege, Dr. Andrews was Director of Adult Education and Family Literacy at Frontier Community College.
Angie Lane – Director
With over 27 years of experience in early childhood education, Angela “Angie” Lane brings a deep commitment to quality care, staff development, and operational excellence in her role as Director at Kiddie Kollege Early Childhood Center.Angie began her journey in the classroom as an infant teacher at Kiddie Kollege and has since grown into a leadership role where she now oversees the daily operations of the licensed center. She is a hands-on leader with expertise in program compliance, team mentorship, and quality improvement. Under her direction, Kiddie Kollege has successfully navigated DCFS audits, licensing renewals, and NAEYC reaccreditation—demonstrating her skill in meeting and exceeding state and national standards. Angie has played a key role in coordinating the ISBE Pre-K Program and leading the center through ExceleRate Illinois processes. She is deeply involved in supporting professional growth among staff, advancing their credentials, and facilitating ongoing training. Her efforts have also helped secure grant funding through Quality Improvement Funds to enhance programming and environments. Currently, Angie is preparing the center for its next NAEYC accreditation, while continuing to foster a safe, nurturing, and educational setting for children. She is driven by a passion for child development and a commitment to mentoring educators to become confident, capable leaders. Angie holds a Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education, along with an Early Childhood Director Credential Level II, ECE Credential Level 5, and Infant Toddler Credential Level 5. She is known for her organizational strength, strategic planning, and ability to juggle the many moving parts of a high-quality early childhood program. Outside of work, Angie finds her greatest joy in being “Memaw” to two sets of twin grandbabies—Tessa and Teagan (4-year-old girls), and Rowan and Cooper (10-week-old twins). She also enjoys 4-wheeler riding, fishing, and spending time with her husband, extended family, and her mini Goldendoodle, Maple.
Kristen Harwell – Assistant Director
With 17 years of experience in early childhood education, Kristen Harwell serves as the Assistant Director at Kiddie Kollege in Fairfield, Illinois. Known for her dedication to child-centered learning and smooth daily operations, Kristen plays a key role in creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment where both children and educators thrive. Kristen began her career in the toddler classroom, where she developed a deep appreciation for developmental milestones, creative learning, and relationship-building with young children. Her natural leadership skills and organizational strengths led her into administration, where she now helps manage the day-to-day operations of the center. Kristen is passionate about providing a fun and educational space for children while supporting families and staff with empathy, encouragement, and consistency. She also oversees the center’s digital and social media presence, helping to foster strong connections with the community. Currently pursuing her Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education, Kristen continues to grow professionally and expand her leadership capacity. She holds an Illinois Director Credential Level 1, ECE Credential Level 4, and is certified in food sanitation and health/safety compliance. Kristen is known for her creative problem-solving, effective communication, and ability to manage time and resources efficiently, helping Kiddie Kollege to maintain a high-quality early learning program. Outside of work, Kristen has been married to her husband Chris for 16 years and is a proud mom to their 13-year-old daughter. She enjoys spending time with her family, shopping, reading, and crafting custom shirts. Her approach to early childhood education is grounded in play, creativity, and hands-on experiences that support every child’s growth.
Andrea Bankston-Center Admin. Director
Andrea Bankston brings a well-rounded and deeply committed leadership presence to Kiddie Kollege as the Center Administrative Director. With a background that spans elementary, high school, and special education teaching roles in both Illinois and Florida, Andrea offers a comprehensive understanding of the education system and a passion for lifelong learning. Since joining Kiddie Kollege, Andrea has served in both instructional and administrative capacities, including as Assistant Director, and now plays a central leadership role in overseeing day-to-day operations, budgeting, compliance, and staff development. She manages ISBE-funded preschool programming and ensures alignment with both ISBE and NAEYC standards. Her responsibilities include tracking and reporting grant expenditures through QuickBooks, reviewing lesson plans, mentoring teaching staff, and providing clear, consistent communication across the organization. Andrea is known for her organized, systems-oriented approach to leadership and her ability to create a culture of accountability and excellence. She brings a strong balance of structure and empathy, ensuring that the program remains both well-run and child-centered. She represents Kiddie Kollege on community boards and advisory councils, advocating for high-quality early childhood education across the region. She holds a B.S. in Elementary Education from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale and an ECE Level 5 Credential. Her leadership in ISBE preschool programming reflects her strengths in compliance, team development, and strategic oversight. Andrea leads with heart, common sense, and a strong work ethic. Calm under pressure and steady in her leadership, she steps in wherever needed and brings a sense of stability to both staff and classrooms. Outside of work, Andrea enjoys quiet, cozy environments with a good cup of coffee and soothing music. She finds joy in spending time with her family, traveling, and being outdoors. She’s also a fan of shows that explore the beauty of restoring historical homes and chateaus.