Meet Our Team

Renata was born in Odessa, Ukraine. She came to New York when she was six years old. She attended Hunter college and earned a dual Masters in Education and Special Education before entering the field as a teacher and a child therapist. After growing as an educator, Renata decided to open her own Childcare center that offers each child an individual approach to grow and succeed academically, socially, emotionally, and physically. Renata was always inspired by the philosophies of Dr. Maria Montessori and values the importance of a creative curriculum that focuses on developmentally and academically appropriate goals and objectives.

As a mother of three young children, Renata understands first hand that children learn at their own pace and believes in the importance of creating a loving, nurturing, and safe environment built around children’s limitless curiosity and natural desire to learn.

My name is Victoria Wallak and I have been working in childcare for more than ten years with children from the ages of 3 months to 5 years old while also going to school to continue my education in Elementary and Early Childhood Education with a minor in Psychology. From an early age I knew I wanted to work with children as I am the oldest of 8 siblings and have always found joy in teaching and helping them grow. Being the Director here at Kinder Prep gives me the opportunity to bring all the knowledge I have in the classrooms to the center I have been with for almost three years. I was fascinated by Kinder Prep from the first day I came in for my interview because of the amount of care they truly put into their centers. The owners Renata and Irina always listened to my ideas and allowed me to grow as a teacher while exploring my teaching abilities. When I was promoted to assistant director I found a different love I had not experienced in child care. Being a part of a team that truly puts the kids first and offers them the best education and resources available to them while also putting the families and their needs first was inspiring.

I give my all to the children here at Kinder Prep and truly do consider my parents, children, and staff our family. I will always put them first and offer the best care I can while also being as supportive and communicative through the children’s early education journey.

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Hi, my name is Kamilia Duisheva. I'm a New York State certified early childhood and special education teacher with over a decade of experience in both public and private schools. I hold a Master's degree from NYU and am excited to step into the role of Director at Kinder Prep's Summer Enrichment and Afterschool Program.

As both a teacher and mother, i lead with empathy, care and purpose. I belive that young children thrive when they feel safe, understood and inspired. I'm especially drawn to Montessori principles and the way they honor a child's natural curiosity, independence and love of learning. My teaching philosophy centers on connection, play and celebrating each child's unique identity and cultural background.

I'm fluent in Kyrgyz, Russian, English, and am currently learning American Sign Language. I bring a global perspective and a deep commitment to equity and whole-child development - and am excited to lead with heart during these foundational early years.

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My name is Juliana, and I am so excited to introduce myself as the new teacher in your child's classroom. I'm originally from Colombia and am 25 years old. I love to bring my culture and language to the classroom and engage children in learning Spanish. I bring over 5 years of experience working with young children and have a bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education. Previously, I worked at Kinder Prep Brooklyn Heights for 2 years teaching children ages 1-4 years.

I love biking and hiking and enjoy bringing my active nature to the classroom. In my spare time, I also enjoy reading, being outdoors, and watching series. I live close by and feel that being a part of Kinder Prep Williamsburg is meant to be!

I am a loving, patient, charismatic, and creative person. My goal is to promote a warm, inclusive environment where your child feels safe, supported, and excited to learn. I look forward to building strong connections with each child and family as we share this special stage together, filled with care, growth, and lots of fun!

My name is Catalina Miranda, and I am originally from Colombia. Working with children has always been a central part of my life. I have valuable experience in childcare, where I've had the opportunity to nurture children's development, teach them Spanish, and create a positive learning environment. This has deepened my passion for early childhood education.

Kinder Prep Montessori's philosophy resonates with me deeply, as I believe in fostering independence and confidence from a young age. I am fluent in Spanish, English, and conversational Portuguese, which helps me connect with families from diverse backgrounds.

I'm excited to be part of this community and look forward to growing alongside your children. Thank you for the opportunity!

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I have been a caregiver and educator for twenty-one years ranging from infant care to fifth grade. I am a mother and grandmother and have always had a passion for teaching and nurturing very young children. I am certified and have a Masters Degree in Early Childhood Education and Special Education.

It is most rewarding to see the progress as each child emerges as a different child from one’s classroom than when they first began. My goal is to help children discover and explore their own potential for learning and gain the confidence to apply what they learn to their own world.

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Hello families! My name is Róchelle Northe, and I’m so excited to be part of your child’s learning journey Here at Kinder Prep. I’ve been teaching for about six years now, and it truly is my passion. I’ve studied Early Childhood Education in college because I love working with young learners and helping them grow, both academically and emotionally. Currently, I’m continuing my education by studying psychology with the goal of becoming a guidance counselor. Supporting children not only in their learning but also in their emotional well-being is something I care deeply about.

Outside of the classroom, I enjoy spending my time doing things that keep me creative and active. Some of my favorite hobbies include painting, going on bike rides, and taking road trips to explore new places. These activities help me recharge and bring fresh energy into the classroom. I’m really looking forward to a fantastic year ahead and can’t wait to get to know both you and your child better.

Hi there! I’m Ms. Andrea , and I’m thrilled to be part of the teaching team in the Ducklings Classroom. Originally from Colombia, I’ve had the joy of working with children for many years, starting my adventure at the Bridge Park location.

I've had the pleasure of teaching students of all ages, and each experience has been a wonderful journey. With a bachelor’s degree in Psychology, I bring a deeper understanding of child development to my teaching. One of my favorite things about being in the classroom is sharing my native Spanish with the students. It’s a joy to blend language and culture into our lessons and see the excitement it brings. I’m passionate about creating a warm, engaging environment where every child can thrive and feel inspired.

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Hello! I’m Luibov, and I’m delighted to join the team as an infant teacher. Originally from Ukraine, I hold a degree in Philology, which has given me a profound appreciation for language and communication. Though my academic background is in Philology, my passion for early childhood education has led me to focus on nurturing and supporting infants.

In the classroom, I strive to create a warm and stimulating environment where our youngest learners feel safe and loved. My goal is to support their early development through engaging activities and meaningful interactions that foster curiosity and growth.

I’m excited to bring my background and enthusiasm to the team and look forward to making a positive impact on our infants' early learning experiences.

Hello, I'm Madelina, and I'm thrilled to be the Infant Teacher at Kinder Prep! My journey in early childhood education began back in Ukraine, where I found my true passion for teaching. I discovered the joy of nurturing young minds and helping them grow and develop in those early years.

I worked in Kinder Prep Bridge Park as an Infant Teacher and have worked as an assistant teacher in the Ducklings classroom. Being a teacher has been incredibly rewarding to see the progress and milestones each child achieves under my care. My approach is centered around creating a warm, supportive environment where infants feel safe to explore and learn. I understand the unique needs of each child and strive to provide individualized attention to help them thrive.

Being an Infant Lead Teacher is more than just a job for me— it's my calling. I'm dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of these little ones and supporting their growth every step of the way.

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Hi, I'm Karen, and I'm truly excited to be a part of the Kinder Prep family!

With a Master's degree in Early Childhood Education, I've dedicated over 18 years -and counting-to the field of early childhood education. During that time, I've had the privilege of supporting young learners through some of their most formative years. I believe that childhood should be filled with meaningful, joyful, and developmentally rich experiences-and I strive every day to make those moments count for every child in my care.

I'm passionate about fostering curiosity, confidence, and compassion in each of my students. Whether we're exploring the alphabet, experimenting with colors, or working through social-emotional milestones, I aim to create a space where children feel seen, safe, and celebrated.

I also believe that life is what we make it-so why not make it fun? A sense of joy, wonder, and humor is at the heart of everything I do, both in and out of the classroom.

I'm looking forward to growing alongside this amazing team and helping shape the bright futures of the Kinder Prep community!

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Hi, my name is Nari! I am thrilled to be a part of the Kinder Prep team! I was born and raised in Georgia (Europe)and have a degree in Linguistics andEducation. My true passion is teaching young children.I have over five years of experience asa teacher, working in daycares in Germany and the U.S., as well as in anAu Pair program in Austria. My goal is to create a warm, engaging, and nurturing environment where children feel safe, happy, and excited to learn. I look forward to being part of your child’s early learning journey

Hello! I’m Alla. I have been part of the Kinder Prep Montessori team for over two years. Originally from Ukraine, I have experience working as both a nanny and a teacher in my homeland. After relocating to NYC, I was determined to continue my journey with children. While I enjoy working with kids of all ages, my true passion lies in caring for infants. The highlight of my day as an assistant teacher in the infant classroom is circle time. I love to dance and sing with the little ones, creating joyful moments and providing them with a fun, engaging experience.

I look forward to meeting your family!

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Greetings! I'm Iryna, an Assistant in the Infant Classroom. I've been part of the Kinder Prep family for several years and have enjoyed working with children of various ages. I am passionate about creativity and strive to provide the little ones with plenty of opportunities to express themselves. The highlight of my role in the infant classroom is witnessing their growth and development during these vital early stages. You'll often find me chatting with the babies and showering them with affection!

Hi! I’m Sofia Sondiki, and I’m thrilled to be an Infant Room Assistant Teacher. I have a deep love for working with infants and enjoy creating a warm and nurturing environment for them to explore and learn. Building trusting relationships with the children is really important to me. In my free time, I enjoy spending time outside and finding new activities that inspire creativity in the classroom!

A passionate young teacher with a background in art, I discovered my true calling in early childhood education.

I love guiding young children through their creative development, helping them express their thoughts and emotions through art and imaginative play. Every day, I’m inspired by the curiosity and resilience of the little ones I work with, and I’m committed to fostering a nurturing, creative space where they can grow and thrive.

¡Hola! My name is Valentina, and I am a dedicated educator currently pursuing my Master’s in Early Childhood Education. Born and raised in Colombia, I bring a diverse perspective to my work, supported by a background in psychology, which helps me understand and nurture each child’s unique needs. With 18 years of experience in cheerleading, I bring vibrant energy and an active approach to the classroom, creating an engaging and dynamic learning environment. As a lead teacher, I am committed to fostering growth in all areas—academic, social, and emotional—while guiding my team to ensure every child has the best possible learning experience.

Hi, I’m Ms. Tekla, and I’m delighted to be part of the Kinder Prep family as a Teacher’s Assistant! With a background in early childhood education and hands-on experience supporting children aged 2–5, I’m passionate about creating safe, nurturing, and stimulating learning environments where little ones can grow and thrive.

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I enjoy guiding children through Montessori lessons, creative play, and hands-on activities that spark curiosity and support social, emotional, and cognitive development. With strong organizational skills and a structured approach, I strive to maintain a classroom that is both engaging and orderly. I love building connections with children and their families, ensuring each child feels seen, supported, and encouraged every day. I’m excited to collaborate with the Kinder Prep team and help our young learners explore, learn, and flourish!

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Hi, I’m Ms. Daryna, and I’m excited to join the Kinder Prep family as a Teacher’s Assistant working with toddlers! With over three years of experience in childcare. I’m passionate about supporting young children’s growth in safe, nurturing, and engaging environments. I love bringing patience, creativity, and a playful spirit to the classroom, whether it’s during Montessori lessons, sensory activities, or outdoor play. My goal is to help every child feel seen, supported, and encouraged as they explore, learn, and develop social and emotional skills. I’m thrilled to be part of the team and to help our little learners grow and thrive!

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My name is Ms. Gvantsa, and I’m so happy to introduce myself as the newest member of the Chicks classroom! I’m truly excited to begin this journey with you and your little ones, and I feel honored to be part of such an important stage in their lives.‍

I come from the beautiful country of Georgia and bring with me over five years of experience working with children from 3 months to 4 years old. Supporting young children during their earliest years brings me so much joy, and I’m passionate about creating a warm, safe, and engaging environment where they can thrive.

As your child’s teacher, I aim to foster a space where they feel loved, supported, and free to explore the world around them. Through play, discovery, and lots of laughter, I’m committed to helping each child grow with confidence and curiosity.

I look forward to getting to know each of your little ones and building strong, supportive relationships with families along the way. Let’s make this a joyful and memorable year filled with learning, laughter, and love!

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Hi, I’m Ms. Teo, and I’m excited to be part of the team as an Assistant Teacher. I’ve been working in early childhood education since 2021, with over three years of experience supporting young children in daycare settings.

In my role, I work closely with lead teachers to maintain a calm, nurturing classroom where children feel safe, supported, and free to explore. I enjoy engaging children in age-appropriate routines, play-based learning, and group activities that encourage growth and curiosity.

Building strong relationships with both children and families is important to me, and I’m committed to creating a welcoming and supportive environment every day. I’m passionate about helping children develop socially, emotionally, and cognitively, and I look forward to continuing this meaningful work as part of the team.

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