Jackie Charles
Director

Jackie Charles serves as our Center Director who leads with compassion, experience, and a genuine love for teaching.

Jackie has spent 30 years in this field serving as a teacher and as a center director. Her love and dedication for this industry have prepared her to be a fierce leader. Jackie has earned her associate degree in early childhood education and is currently in progress to complete her B.A in ECE. 

She is passionate about helping teachers develop professionally and building strong, supportive teams. Her leadership is driven by the belief that when teachers grow, children succeed.

​When Jackie has free time, she likes to spend it traveling, reading, cooking, and enjoys retail therapy. 

Lauren Taylor

Assistant Director

Lauren recently moved to Champaign from Chicago with her family and is excited to join the Little Legends Learning Center community alongside her son, Lennox. She has been working in early childhood education since 2012 and is passionate about continually learning and growing in the field.

Lauren is deeply committed to ensuring that every child has access to a high-quality early learning experience, regardless of their background — a belief that guides her work each day.
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Currently, her favorite children’s book is Dear Zoo, a frequent bedtime favorite in her home. Lauren looks forward to getting to know the children and families at LLLC and is excited to be part of the Little Legends family!