Our Staff
Ms. Joanne Castillo
Director and Ladybugs Teacher
I've been busy enjoying Sonshine Preschool since 1998! I have a degree from Texas Tech University and have taken early childhood classes through Pima. I began teaching in 2000, became Assistant Director in 2004, and Director in 2023. With all my heart I can say I love working with the children here at Sonshine. I look forward to getting to know them and their families each year.
Ms. Amanda Banwart
Assistant Director
I joined Sonshine Preschool in 2011 as a two-year old teaching assistant. In 2015 I became Assistant Director, handling all office duties. I can honestly say I truly enjoy coming to work every day. Building relationships with our preschoolers and their families is one of the greatest parts of my job.
Ms. Mary Montes
Butterflies Teacher
Sonshine has been a big part of my life since 2014. Both my daughters attended Sonshine and I started working in the three year old classroom in 2017. Before my girls were born, I was a teacher in the Vail School District for 15 years, mostly teaching Kindergarten. My husband and I have been married for 15 years. I enjoy reading, scrapbooking, being with my family and coffee:)
Ms. Julie Moten
Ladybugs Teacher
I joined the Sonshine staff in 1998, and has been teaching the 3-4 Year Olds ever since. I graduated from UofA and was born and raised in Tucson. I am married and have 4 girls.
Ms. Nilza Pesqueira
Butterflies Teacher
I have degree in Educational Sciences and I really like my profession. Being able to teach and learn from children at the same time is very satisfying for me. My husband and I have two young children who also attend Sonshine.
Ms. Fatima Pesqueira
Fireflies Teacher
I have a bachelor's degree in education and 14 years of experience in teaching in preschool and elementary school, I love my profession. I am constantly learning so I can be the best teacher possible to children. I'm happy to be part of the Sonshine team.
Ms. Cassie Grove
Busy Bees Teacher
I’ve been working in the early childhood education field for over 7 years and nannied for 2 years previous to working in a professional setting. I’m so excited to be the Busy Bees teacher and watch all our kiddos learn and flourish!
Ms. Prairie Romero
Afternoon Lead Teacher & Fireflies Teaching Assistant
I have been a part of Sonshine Preschool since 2001! I absolutely love working and spending my day with the toddlers. All 3 of my boys attended Sonshine. I enjoy spending time with my family and friends.
Ms. Cheryl AKA “Mrs. K”
Properties Manager-All Around Helper-Keeps our campus beautiful
After a 37 year career in Dental Hygiene, I am blessed to have a “retirement job” at Sonshine Preschool. Both of my daughters are Sonshine Alumni. My husband and I will celebrate our 42nd anniversary this year. We enjoy travel and working on home improvement projects.