Our team

Mother of two sons, including one with Down syndrome. Nearly a decade of teaching experience and a Master's in Educational Leadership. Founded Includ(Ed) to create the inclusive early-education community her family was looking for.

BS / M.Ed in Special Education from the University of Maryland (2009). Over two decades in education across multiple roles. Philosophy centers on effective communication, collaboration, and a strengths-based approach.

Holistic OT specializing in sensory supports, fine motor skills, and self-help skills. Master's in Occupational Therapy (2016). Passionate about supporting preschoolers in accessing their school and community environments in a way that is meaningful and fun for them.

August is passionate about making inclusive education accessible to all. They graduated in 2026 with a B.A. in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences from SDSU, and intend to get their M.A. in pursuit of a career in Speech-Language Pathology. In this process, they hope to continue giving children the tools they need for autonomy, emotional regulation, and self-expression. They look forward to learning more every day from both the children and staff in our community, and they love being part of the Includ(Ed) team.

Cece is an Associate Teacher that joined Included for summer camp. She is currently getting her Masters of Social Work at CSUSM, and is an aspiring mental health professional working with foster youth and teens. Outside of Included and her grad program, Cece is training to be a Pilates instructor and loves anything fitness related, reading, cooking, and music!

Jocelyn is entering her fourth year at San Diego State University, studying Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences and minoring in Child Development. She is passionate about working with young children and supporting communication development through inclusive, play-based learning. Jocelyn has a strong interest in AAC and loves helping learners discover and use their unique voices in ways that feel meaningful to them. She is dedicated to creating a positive and supportive classroom environment where every child feels seen, encouraged, and excited to learn. She is grateful to be part of the team at Includ(Ed) and looks forward to learning and growing alongside the amazing staff and students.

Lauren is an Assistant Teacher at Includ(Ed) who began her journey with the team as an intern. She is an incoming senior at San Diego State University, majoring in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences with a minor in Language Acquisition and Bilingualism with the goal of becoming a pediatric speech-language pathologist. She is also a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT). She is passionate about promoting an inclusive environment where every child feels empowered to express themselves authentically. She is excited to continue growing with the Includ(Ed) community and support children and their families as a member of the team!

Lexi Gonzales-Levine proudly served four years in the United States Navy, where she developed strong leadership, adaptability, and a passion for serving others. She is currently pursuing a Master of Education in Special Education with Extensive Support Needs at National University. Lexi is passionate about supporting children of all abilities and is committed to creating an inclusive, welcoming environment where every student feels valued and empowered to learn. Lexi is grateful to be part of the Includ(Ed) community and looks forward to helping students grow, learn, and thrive each day.

Rachel is an Associate Teacher in the Infant room at Includ(Ed). She graduated in 2026 with her bachelor's in Child and Family Development from San Diego State University. Rachel is passionate about making quality education accessible for children of all abilities and backgrounds. She is committed to supporting children's independence, autonomy, confidence, and creativity through child-centered learning. Rachel emphasizes teaching socio-emotional skills such as self-regulation, expressing feelings, and building relationships through whichever means the child prefers to communicate. She is dedicated to fostering a welcoming, engaging, and inclusive environment where each child is individually supported and valued. Rachel is so excited to be a part of the Includ(Ed) community and looks forward to learning and growing from the amazing staff and children.

San Diego State University student pursuing a degree in Speech, Language, & Hearing Sciences with AA degrees in Child Development, Psychology, and Behavioral Sciences. Pediatric SLP in the making! Completed an SLP internship through Therapy Abroad's Bulgaria program, gaining valuable cross-cultural clinical experience. Has shadowed SLPs in preschool to adult settings, and a beginning ASL learner.

San Diego native. Master's in Special Education from Columbia University. Previously taught in two Pre-K settings on the East Coast supporting diverse learners.

Mary is a current grad student at Point Loma Nazarene University pursuing a special education teaching credential. With a background in early childhood education and experience working with people of all ages and abilities, Mary is passionate about inclusive educational environments, which is why Includ(Ed) couldn’t be a better place for her to work. She’s believes in creating spaces where children feel valued and loved, just as they are. Outside of the classroom, Mary loves to run, to cook, and will swim in the ocean just about any chance she can get!

UC San Diego student pursuing a double major in Linguistics and Literary Arts. Aspires to become an SLP and ASL interpreter. Started with Includ(Ed) as a volunteer.

I am a current graduate student with aspirations to be a bilingual SLP. I have always loved helping, supporting, and meeting people where they are to nurture success. With different experiences working and volunteering with kids of varies ages, I found true joy working with children. I have a passion for creating a positive, encouraging environment where every child feels seen and confident as they grow. I am eager to continue my education, working in early childhood to provide unique and empowering communication tools for all. In my free time, I enjoy winding down to crafty activities, spending time with my family and two silly dogs! I am so happy to have found Includ(Ed) and it’s amazing team!

UC San Diego student pursuing a Linguistics and Education degree for a bilingual SLP career. Experience shadowing SLPs with ages preschool to high school.

Bachelor's in Music Therapy with Psychology minor from Montclair State University. Experience in inclusive preschool settings and summer camp work.