Kelly holds a bachelor's degree in Elementary and Special Education with an endorsement in Early Childhood Education from Salve Regina University. Kelly furthered her education by obtaining a master's degree from Southern CT State University and a sixth-year degree from The University of New England. After 15 years of experience teaching kindergarten (13 years) and second grade (2 years), she took time off to care for her own children before returning to The Preschool Center. Kelly lives in Southbury with her husband and two children, who keep them busy with their various activities. They also have two dogs and four chickens, in her free time, Kelly loves swimming, taking long walks, going out for ice cream, and traveling. While these are mostly warm weather activities, she still loves a good snow storm!
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Ms. Jessica, is thrilled to be head teacher of The Preschool Center. With over 15 years of experience in Early Childhood Education, Jessica has a diverse background, having worked as han EMT, doula, parent educator, and microbiologist tech. She holds an Associate degree in human services, a Bachelor's degree in Child Studies, and a Teaching certification from Charter Oak. Jessica lives in Beacon Falls with her husband, Shawn, and the 2 youngest of their 7 children. They also have 7 grandchildren, a dog named Storm and a cat named Baby. Jessica enjoys spending her free time outdoors, hiking, walking, camping, and gardening. She also enjoys live music and attending various music festivals.
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Ms. Jean brings over 25 years of experience working with children across various age groups in both preschool and childcare centers in the area. She takes great delight in observing the children, witnessing their intellectual development, and nurturing their growth. A lifelong resident of Naugatuck, she is happily married to her husband Greg. Ms. Jean is a proud parent of two grown children, a son and a daughter, and she cherishes moments spent with her two granddaughters during playtime and sleepovers. Outside of her professional life, she enjoys quality time with family and friends, whether exploring Cape Cod, cooking, reading, or relishing beach and pool days. Excited about contributing to the preschool center team, Ms. Jean looks forward to fostering a positive learning environment for the young minds in her care.
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Riley (Miss Riley) is excited to be teaching this year at The Preschool Center. With over 6 years of experience in the Early Childhood Field, she loves working with children. Apart from her work in Early Childhood Education, she runs a small pet and house sitting business that keeps her busy. Currently, she is a student at Post University, pursuing a degree in Early Childhood Education, which she expects to complete in 2023. She has also recently obtained her Head Teacher Certification through OEC. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, particularly her two nephews Malcolm and Jamie. Riley loves movies, especially Marvel and Disney! Additionally, she likes going for walks, visiting the beach, trying new breakfast places, and spending time with her three sisters.
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Art has always been an integral part of Nicole’s identity since a young age. Her appreciation for art has evolved and deepened over time, with a passion for art history and education. After high school, Nicole attended art school and before starting a family and an art business, worked in elementary education. Nicole lives in Middlebury with her husband, three daughters and their cat, Bosco. Continually seeking growth and inspiration, she remains committed to learning and exploring new avenues of artistic creation. You can see some of her work at nicolehalzackstudio.com
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Ellie moved from her hometown of Greenwich to Southbury in 2022 to serve as Associate Pastor at UCC Southbury where she leads all the children and youth programs. Ellie graduated from Rollins College in 2019 with a bachelor’s degree major in communications and minor in dance. After college she worked as Director of Children’s Ministry at First Presbyterian Church in Greenwich where she also taught a Wiggles and Giggles class for their preschool. She also lead contemporary worship for several years at Second Congregational Church in Greenwich where she grew up participating in youth choir. A gifted singer, Ellie has also played piano and guitar from a young age and is passionate about dance.
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Anne currently serves as Director of Youth Music at UCC Southbury, teaching music theory and directing youth choir and youth band after school programs. She has many years of experience in church music and as a board-certified music therapist, having worked in foster care, adoption, underserved communities and both kids and adults with special needs. She embraces her call to help communities find a love for music and is excited to create an inviting musical space for friendship for the children of the church and The Preschool Center.
Anne holds a bachelor’s degree in Music Therapy from Molloy College on Long Island, and is currently working towards her master’s degree at SUNY New Paltz in the Hudson Valley. Anne moved from Long Island to Connecticut in 2023 and loves spending time with her family and friends, running in the parks and beaches, and trying all of the Connecticut pizza! |