The Gardner School of Dedham, MA

What is your educational background, and what inspired you to pursue a career in early childhood education?
Academic vigor runs in my veins, as I was exposed to early childhood education as a small child, observing my mother work as an educator in my childcare. In 2006, my family acquired a group center in Massachusetts where I worked consistently even while pursuing other endeavors, until I eventually became Director II certified and the owner. I also hold a degree in Political Science from Brandeis University, a J.D. from Suffolk University Law School, and have practiced law. I expect to receive an EdD from Northeastern University in Spring 2026. As an academic-practitioner who has worked as a teacher, assistant director, and former director/owner of a large group center, I am continuously in pursuit of deeper insight into every aspect of early childhood education.

How long have you been with TGS, and what excites you most about being part of this school community?
I started at TGS in January 2025. What resonated with me the most are its values of putting the children’s needs first, strong academic integrity, respect for families, educators and colleagues, and a focus on creating a safe, nurturing, and welcoming environment in a school setting. The collegial atmosphere and camaraderie amongst the TGS team is exciting and invigorating!

What do you love most about working with children during their early years of development?
Their whimsical wonder, creative imagination, silliness, and default positive outlook towards play, making friends, and learning. My two daughters were fortunate enough to attend my former center with me and I always marvel at seeing the world through their eyes!  I also adore fostering a love for literacy and storytelling and am a proud author of several children’s books through a wonderful local nonprofit organization!

What is the most rewarding part of your day at TGS?
Greeting the children and families, learning about their day, and communicating directly to ensure accountability.  Also, I value having a wholesome and trustworthy team that inspires each other to work hard, have fun, and motivate one another with recognition and praise!

Share the name of a teacher who inspired you and describe how they influenced your approach to education.
Easy! My first grade teacher, David Weinstein is the greatest of all time educator hero!  He inspired and challenged me, knowing my English was poor and my family immigrated from the former USSR.  He encouraged a love of reading, writing, listening to others’ differences, and learning from their values.  I am still amazed by how he continues to send ALL his students birthday cards after all these years! I aspire to remember all of the children’s names and faces at my school and make everyone feel welcomed, seen, and heard.

Why do you believe quality early childhood education is important for a child’s development?
Quality early education is essential to the foundation of early learning and school readiness.  Childcare instills social, emotional, behavioral, and cognitive skills that are immeasurable to benefit in later learning and succeeding in group dynamics.  A child’s executive functioning skills thrive in a safe environment welcoming learning, assisting in experiential practice, and minimizing stressors later in life.

How would you comfort and reassure new parents who may feel nervous about leaving their child in someone else’s care for the first time?
I am never too proud to take off my Director hat and put on my Mama hat because I completely understand first-time family jitters and welcome limitless questions and communication to make families feel honored and respected by their decision to have their child(ren) in my care.  I value a relationship built on trust and want the families to feel they are comforted and being taken care of in their home away from home.

How do you partner with parents to support their child’s growth and learning journey?
A constant stream of communication.  I respect and honor every family with how they raise their child(ren), and can only relay my suggestions, guidance, and knowledge as it relates to early education and care.  My open-door policy is designed to address all issues from ironing out minor quirks and details, to dealing with major developmental concerns and even possible referral assistance.