Friendly Sea Turtle Classroom
The Early Preschool Classrooms at the University of Denver’s Fisher Early Learning Center serve children ages 30 - 48 months in a welcoming, play-rich environment designed to support growing independence, creativity, and social connection. Our experienced educators provide thoughtful guidance and individualized support as children expand their language, curiosity, and confidence.
Through play-based learning, hands-on exploration, and predictable daily routines, children strengthen early academic foundations, practice problem-solving, and build meaningful friendships. We partner closely with families to create a supportive community where every child feels valued, capable, and excited to learn each day.
Classroom Teachers
Maggy Deschane, Lead Teacher
2025 marked Maggy's first year working as a Lead Teacher in the Friendly Sea Turtles classroom, after previously serving as an Associate Teacher in the Abiyoyo PreK classroom. She grew up on a small hobby farm in Northern Wisconsin as the daughter of two teachers.
Prior to moving to Denver, Maggy attended the University of Minnesota–Twin Cities, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education and Social Justice. She is currently working toward her master’s degree in Early Childhood Education through CU Denver. Over the past five years, Maggy has worked in early childhood education as an assistant teacher, a kindergarten substitute teacher, and an intervention coach for K–3rd graders. She is especially excited to return to working with younger preschoolers, a stage that is very dear to her heart. Outside of the classroom, Maggy enjoys reading, making art, and snuggling with her two cats.
Carly Wilbur, Associate Teacher
Carly Wilbur is an experienced and passionate early childhood educator with over seven years of teaching experience. Originally from Maryland and recently relocated from Montana, Carly holds a Master of Arts in Early Childhood Education from Towson University, along with dual bachelor’s degrees in Family Science and Women’s Studies from the University of Maryland, College Park. She specialized in designing inclusive, hands-on learning experiences that support the cognitive, social-emotional, and physical development of young children. Her background includes co-teaching in diverse classrooms, individualized instruction, and building strong partnerships with families. Carly is deeply committed to fostering independence, curiosity, and community in early learning settings. She is thrilled to be a member of this wonderful education team here at Fisher!
Oriana McCauley, Continuity of Care Associate
Oriana is excited to be joining the community at Fisher Early Learning Center. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Education, with a minor in Behavioral Analysis, from the University of North Texas. She raised her family in the same community and has three children—two sons and a daughter. Her youngest son recently graduated from high school, and the family is thrilled to begin a new chapter in Denver.
At home, Oriana has three cats and a dog who keeps things lively. In her free time, she enjoys gardening, music, spending time outdoors, reading, caring for animals, and continuing to learn new things.
