Our Story

Director Jessica, Assistant Director Sandi, and Office Manager Sharon share a deep-rooted passion for early childhood education—bringing over 20 years of combined experience from local childcare centers. As a family (Sharon is Jessica’s mother and Sandi’s mother-in-law) and proud residents of Mantua, they shared a dream: to build a nurturing, close-knit childcare center in their hometown community.

Now, they’ve brought that dream to life. By combining their knowledge, unique perspectives, and heartfelt dedication, they’ve opened a place where the children of Mantua can learn, grow, and thrive in a warm, loving environment that feels just like home.

Meet the Team

Director

Jessica Hulmes

jessica@dreambigchildcarecenter.com

Hi! My name is Jessica and I am the Director of Dream Big Childcare Center. I have worked with children since I was 15 years old. I have over 20 years of childcare experience in a daycare setting and in our local public schools. I have an Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education, a Bachelors Degree, and a teaching certificate for Preschool through Third Grade.

I have three daughters, ages 12, 10, and 4. We live on a farm and have sheep, and we love being farmers! We enjoy traveling, especially to Disney World. My girls are competitive cheerleaders so I’m a very proud cheer mom! I have also been the Director of Cheerleading for Clearview Youth Cheerleading since 2020 and am active in the PTO for Mantua Schools.

I believe in making daycare feel like home and am looking forward to providing a warm, inviting, exciting environment for your children to grow and thrive in!!!

Assistant Director

Sandi Gellenthin

sandi@dreambigchildcarecenter.com

Hi! My name is Sandi Gellenthin, and I’ve been working in early childhood education for 18 years. I hold an associate’s degree in Early Education and have a deep passion for helping young children learn, grow, and build confidence in a caring, play-based environment.

I’m a proud mom of two, Nico and Gemma, who keep life exciting with their passion for sports. Whether it’s watching Nico from the side lines or coaching my daughter’s cheerleading team. Being involved in their activities is one of my favorite things, and it brings me so much joy to support them on and off the field.

In my free time, I love spending time with my family, going on vacations, and watching Philly sports. I believe the early years are truly special, and I’m honored to be a part of each child’s journey during this important stage of life.

Office Manager

Sharon Hulmes

sharon@dreambigchildcarecenter.com

Hello, my name is Sharon. I have over 35 years of experience as a preschool teacher and as a childcare center director. Children bring so much joy into my life. They have a way of making me laugh every day with their curiosity, honesty and imagination.

I am the proud mother of three grown children - my daughter Jessica, my son Nick, and my stepson Avery. I am blessed with four granddaughters and one grandson. They light up my life and inspire my work with children. I like to spend my time on the field cheering my grandkids on, showing my support at cheer competitions or just celebrating their latest achievements! Family is at the heart of everything I do!

My goal is to bring that comforting, grandmotherly warmth into every classroom - where each child feels safe, cherished and free to grow and explore.