Tenzin is an accomplished lead preschool teacher with a Bachelor's in Liberal Arts Math and Science and is currently pursuing her Master's in Early Childhood Education. Originally from Tibet and raised in India, Tenzin is passionate about teaching because she genuinely loves interacting with children, viewing the classroom as a reciprocal space where both students and teachers learn. She is eager to build relationships with staff and students, driven by the profound opportunity to inspire, support, and mentor children and make a lasting difference in their lives.

Rivkale, a highly experienced early childhood educator originally from Detroit and now residing in Crown Heights, practices a Reggio Emilia-style philosophy where the environment is seen as the "third teacher." She seamlessly integrates Judaics into the entire curriculum, utilizing lively circle time and song to teach concepts like Shabbat, holidays, and Mitzvot not as isolated lessons, but as rich, experiential components of her students' daily learning and development, fostering both creativity and a strong Jewish identity.

Jessica is a kind, warm, and highly respected preschool teacher and the Roses classroom’s Judaic teacher, celebrated for her engaging Judaic circles and songs that introduce young students to traditions with joy and respect. Originally from Colombia, she brings a unique perspective to her teaching philosophy, which emphasizes innate respect for every child. She currently resides in Forest Hills with her husband, serving as an invaluable, gentle, and influential figure in her students' earliest educational experiences.

​Daphne Vivar has been teaching for close to 20 years in a variety of early education settings. She received a B.A. in Early Childhood Studies from CSU Channel Islands in California.

Through her years of education and professional experience, she has found that collaborating with families and all the adults in a child's life is key to a healthy and positive early childhood education experience. Building a trusting relationship with children and parents is a top priority for her.

Kandise, a mother of four living in Brooklyn, is the experienced leader of our infant team, bringing over 15 years of specialized childcare expertise. In her direct care, she is defined by her profoundly nurturing approach and exceptional patience. As a leader, she combines this deep caring with a keen eye for systems and curriculum, thoughtfully managing her team by respecting individual teaching styles. This comprehensive, supportive approach ensures that both her teachers and the infants have the opportunity for individual growth and expression.

Golda, a resident of Crown Heights, is a master of infant care and the Judaic teacher for the infant program, whose expertise was the cornerstone of its successful launch. She is known for her quiet strength and the deep, immediate bond infants form with her. Her exceptional multitasking abilities allow her to effortlessly manage and follow all the individualized feeding and sleep schedules with remarkable care and a keen eye, ensuring every child is tended to promptly and lovingly. Golda's calm and steady presence makes her an invaluable anchor in the classroom.

Esperanza Sierra ("Espe") is an esteemed infant teacher, recognized for her innate understanding of each infant's unique needs. Born and raised in Colombia, her background as a dental technician and oral hygienist underpins her meticulous attention to detail and dedication to well-being in all her endeavors. She is committed to fostering a nurturing and expertly managed environment for the children and her colleagues.

Esther, a dedicated infant teacher and resident of Crown Heights, has a cheerful demeanor, that she infuses into the end of the day with a much-needed burst of energy, ensuring the infants' final hours in the classroom are filled with engaging and comforting interactions. Esther seamlessly incorporates Judaics into the infant room, often using gentle songs and blessings to introduce traditions during key transitional times.

Lamia, a newly married New York native, is currently completing her Master's in Social Work while serving as a dedicated caregiver for our youngest infants. She is exceptionally gentle, highly observant, and possesses endless patience, key qualities for her work. Lamia finds humor and joy in every tiny milestone, creating a secure, responsive, and nurturing environment where the babies are truly seen and celebrated.

Lesly, a married mother of four residing in Forest Hills, brings over two decades of infant care experience to the classroom. She is a natural, intuitive caregiver who enriches the infants' environment with her Judaic experience and her keen eye for beautiful, stimulating environments. As a bilingual teacher, Lesly utilizes her Spanish skills to serenade the babies with lullabies and simple greetings, introducing them to language and rhythm from day one. Her dedication to the children is mirrored by her daughter, Jessica, who works in our preschool, truly making her an invaluable part of our school family.

Naomi Robin, a resident of Roosevelt Island, is an enthusiastic and dedicated educator in the Roses classroom at City Gan. Her strong foundation in education began at the University of Hartford, where she pursued a dual degree in Early Childhood Education and Jewish Studies. This academic focus was deepened by her passion for Judaism, which inspired her to spend 2.5 years studying and living in Israel. As a teacher, Naomi is highly engaged with her young students, facilitating ongoing, meaningful conversations with them as she helps them navigate their worlds.

Areli is an exceptional and valued member of the City Gan teaching staff. Starting as a summer intern, she quickly demonstrated her aptitude and seamlessly transitioned into a permanent teaching role. Areli is remarkably organized, ensuring our afterschool program runs smoothly and efficiently. She naturally assumes a leadership role in the classroom, guiding students with genuine warmth and enthusiasm. Her commitment to bringing joy and structure to the children's learning experience is evident daily, making her a crucial asset to our team. A native Queens residence, Areli is currently pursuing her Bachelors degree as a nursing student.

Jess, teacher in our "Sunflowers" preschool class, is a dedicated mother of three who resides in the Bronx. She possesses a naturally engaging and warm demeanor, making her a favorite among the children. Jess is constantly smiling, reflecting the joy she finds in her work, and she prioritizes giving individual attention to each of her preschoolers, ensuring every child feels uniquely seen and valued. Adding to the richness of her classroom, Jess is bilingual, fluently introducing the Spanish language through songs, stories, and daily interactions. Her commitment to creating a cheerful and personalized learning environment makes her an invaluable part of the preschool team.

Anthony, who was born in Long Island and now lives in Pennsylvania, is a highly valued staff member with over 20 years of early childhood experience. Always a student favorite, he works skillfully in all rooms and fills in as needed. Known for his exceptional patience and kindness, Anthony engages in meaningful ongoing conversations with students and parents, making him an amazing teammate and community builder.