Meet the teachers and staff who work with our children every day at our Lower Village Location! We have a staff of wonderful professionals who are experts in their field. Our caregivers are qualified professionals with backgrounds in early childhood education.They are experienced, CPR/First Aid certified, and undergo regular training to enhance their skills.
To learn more about our Lower Village school, reach out to our Director, Katherine Binford.
Rachel Chaisson,
Owner & CEO
Rachel Chaisson is the founder and owner of A Joyful Noise Childcare Centers. A mother of three and lifelong advocate for children, Rachel’s journey in early childhood education began with homeschooling her own children and teaching in a small church classroom. What started as a passion for creating a safe, nurturing environment for children has grown into multiple childcare centers serving hundreds of families each year.
Rachel is dedicated to providing high-quality early learning experiences, supporting families, and empowering educators to make a lasting impact in the lives of children. Her vision continues to guide A Joyful Noise’s mission of creating a joyful, welcoming place where every child can learn, grow, and thrive.
Caitlin Stevens,
Chief Administrative Officer
Caitlin has been part of A Joyful Noise since 2013, where she helped establish the school’s infant and toddler programs. After taking time away during the COVID-19 pandemic to focus on her family, she returned in 2023 and now serves as Chief Administrative Officer.
Rachel Stinson
Regional Director
My name is Rachel Stinson and I am the Director of A Joyful Noise Preschool York Street with a specialty in new student enrollment and family support. I am the mom of two boys who you will see helping out at the preschool occasionally. I love yoga, the beach, going to camp and generally enjoying summers in Maine. In the winter you can find me chauffeuring the boys to the mountains to ski and snowboard, but you’ll find me reading in the lounge instead!
Meet Our Amazing Staff
Katherine Binford –
Director of LV
My name is Katherine Binford. I have been working in the childcare field for over 12 years. I graduated from the University of Southern Maine with a bachelors degree in Social and Behavior Studies with a minor in Early Childhood Development. I have been with A Joyful Noise for the past year, and I am excited to be part of such an amazing community. I am passionate about creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive, and I look forward to continuing to support our families and staff.
Katie Rakes –
Program Lead
My name is Kathleen Rakes, but you can call me Katie! I’ve been an educator at LV since April 2023. I have my Child Development Associates and thrilled to share what I’ve learned. My goal is to create meaningful bonds and enrich students learning experience through sensory exposure and loving guidance. In my free time I enjoy exploring nature with my boys Leon and Arlo, reading, and spending time with our dog Brew!
Stefi
Lakota
