The Hands and Hearts
Behind Our Preschool
Director
Lauren McNamara
Hello! My name is Lauren McNamara. I joined Deer Creek Preschool in 2025, but I’ve spent over 20 years working with young children, and for the past 11 years, I’ve had the joy of serving in preschool management and leadership.
My love for childcare began in high school, where I volunteered during the school day at a nearby preschool and worked with children in an afterschool program in the afternoons. Those early experiences sparked a passion that has stayed with me ever since.
My family and I moved from South Florida to Georgia in 2020. My husband and I have five children: Caleb, Scarlett, Everly, Hayden, and Anna.
Outside of work, I love gardening, reading, baking, crafting, and spending time with our animals. I also enjoy serving at my church on the weekends, especially working with the children.
I have a strong drive and passion in everything I do, and I truly enjoy working hands-on with our staff to create a workplace that feels like home.
Although my time at Deer Creek has been relatively short, I have genuinely loved coming to work each day. The women I work alongside have an unmatched passion for our children, and I am so excited for the years ahead.
Katelynn Cagle
One Year Old Teachers
Hello! My name is Mrs. Katelynn Bearden, and I am so excited to be part of the Deer Creek Shores Preschool family. I live in Dawsonville with my husband, Eli, and we have been married for two years.
I am a proud graduate of the University of Georgia (Go Dawgs!) and recently earned my B.A. in Communication Studies with a minor in Business. I also run a dance studio in the afternoons, which allows me to continue sharing my love of movement and creativity with children.
Working with young children has always been a passion of mine. I love helping toddlers learn and grow through music, play, and hands-on experiences in a warm and joyful classroom environment.
Outside of school, I enjoy reading, dancing, and spending time with my three dogs, Astro, Grassy, and Luna.
I feel so grateful to be a part of your child’s early learning journey and look forward to a wonderful year together!
Young Twos Teacher
Samantha Asher
Hello! I’m Mrs. Sam, and I joined the Deer Creek Preschool family in 2026 as the teacher in our Young 2s classroom.
I hold a TCC credential and bring over five years of experience in early childhood education. I genuinely love working with young children and creating a fun, organized learning environment where they feel safe, supported, and excited to grow.
My husband, Tony, and I have two children of our own, Ben and Gracelynn. Outside of the classroom, I enjoy crafting, reading, and baking.
Robin Alberty
Older Twos Teacher
My name is Mrs. Robin Alberty, and I am so excited to be part of the Deer Creek Shores Preschool family. My family and I moved to the area in June of 2019 from the Charlotte, North Carolina region.
My husband, Matt, and I have been married for 25 years, and we are both originally from Greensboro, NC. We are blessed with four children: Ainsley, Cadence, Ellis, and Huck, who keep our lives busy and full of joy.
I joined the staff at Deer Creek in January of 2025, and I have truly loved being part of such a warm and welcoming school community.
In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my family, especially attending their sporting events like softball, volleyball, and baseball. We also love traveling together, watching the Braves, spending time on the lake, and relaxing at the beach.
I’m looking forward to many wonderful years with your precious children!
Toddler Assistant
Molly McGrath
I’m Molly McGrath, and I am a native of Forsyth County. I graduated from Forsyth Central High School and earned a marketing degree from North Georgia College and State University, now known as the University of North Georgia (UNG).
I’m married to my husband, Matt McGrath, and we have two daughters, Campbell and Rowan, who are proud Deer Creek Preschool alumni.
I have worked at Deer Creek Shores Preschool for 13 years and have seen many changes over the years, but one thing has always remained the same: the love I have for our Deer Creek Preschool family and friends.
In my free time, I enjoy serving at my church, traveling, sports, and Jazzercise.
Ashley Tarte
Three Year Old Teacher
Hey! My name is Ashley Tarte, and this is my fifth year teaching at Deer Creek. Before coming to Deer Creek, I worked in the nursing field for six years. However, my passion has always been with children. I have been working with kids in daycares and schools since I was 15 years old.
I have three children of my own: Mylie (17), Jace (16), and Aubrie (8). We live in Dahlonega with our three cats, Arya, Birdy, and Crumbl, and our three horses, Bella, Malachi, and Chenoa.
In my spare time, I enjoy reading, crocheting, doing puzzles, and spending time with my kids. I truly love being in the classroom and getting to spend my days with these beautiful and curious little minds
I am forever grateful for the family we create each school year at Deer Creek Preschool.
Pre-K Teacher
Emily Mariscal
My name is Mrs. Emily Mariscal, and I am so excited to be your child’s Pre-K teacher at Deer Creek Shores Preschool.
I have lived in Forsyth County most of my life and graduated from Forsyth Central High School before attending the University of North Georgia. I earned my Bachelor of Science degree in Sociology in 2007 and have been teaching preschool since 2017.
Pre-K is such a special and transitional year for young children, and I love getting to help prepare them for kindergarten while encouraging growth, confidence, and a love for learning. I strive to create a classroom environment where every child feels welcomed, supported, and surrounded by love and grace. My goal is for our classroom to feel like a fun, safe little family as we learn and grow together.
I have been married to my husband, Joseph, for 15 years, and we have three children: Eliana, Gwendolyn, and Joseph. Outside of the classroom, I enjoy traveling with my family, cooking, and reading.
I am truly looking forward to a wonderful year with your precious children and cannot wait to be part of their learning journey!
Apply Today
If you are interested in joining our team, please email or call the preschool to inquire about current openings. All applications submitted are reviewed by the Preschool Director, who carefully evaluates each candidate. If your qualifications align with the needs of the preschool, you will be contacted by email to schedule an interview. Applications are kept on file for future consideration should a position become available.
​
Thank you for your interest in being part of the Deer Creek Shores Preschool family!
770-888-5101