Staff - Children's All Day School

Office Staff

SUSAN BIRNBAUM

(Director)

Hello, everyone! My name is Susan Birnbaum, and I am honored to be
the Director of Children’s All Day School! I started here in 2013 joining an
experienced, kind, and loving staff like no other I have seen. I am a native New Yorker, born in Brooklyn and now living on the Upper East Side of Manhattan. I have a wonderful daughter and a great husband also from New York. I earned my teaching certification at Clark University and a Master’s Degree in Education from the University of Massachusetts. I have spent over three decades as an educator in a variety of roles. My first teaching job was in New York City’s District 2. During my tenure, I became a staff developer as I helped teachers create meaningful curriculum for their students. I then worked as a curriculum developer for over ten years at Scholastic and McGraw-Hill, where I wrote books for teachers and students. Eventually, I became a Professor of Early Childhood Education both at Kean University and B.M.C.C. Yet, with all of my professional experiences, being part of the C.A.D.S. community has been the most rewarding and fulfilling experience of them all! I believe children should spend their early years surrounded by exceptional experiences and learned caregivers, both of which can easily be found at Children’s All Day School.

CARRIE ILISIE

(Assistant Director)

Hello! My name is Carrie Ilisie, and I am proud to be the Assistant Director of Children’s All Day School. I know firsthand what a special place C.A.D.S. is because I am a former parent! C.A.D.S. was the perfect first school experience for my family. We had a great rapport with the teachers and administration. So when I was offered a position here, I did not hesitate to join this wonderful staff.

I was born in New York City and raised in a small town in Westchester. Growing up, I frequently visited the City—attending shows, exploring museums, and going to restaurants with my family. I have always enjoyed the abundant culture New York City has to offer. It is now my home, where I live with my own family.

I moved to New York City immediately after I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Rochester in 1996. Then, I attended Bank Street College of Education, where I earned my Master of Science in Special Education. I have worked in a variety of professions in the field of education for over 25 years. For the last 15 years, my primary focus has been working at New York City independent schools in Admissions.

What I love about living and working at a school in New York City is being a member of an intimate community within this big city.
I am very excited to be a part of such a warm, joyful, and nurturing environment that feels like a second home. I feel very lucky.

KAREN DIAMOND

(Operations Manager)

Hello, everyone! I am a real New Yorker (12 years in). Before moving to my favorite city, I owned a theater arts and dance studio in South Jersey. When not in the C.A.D.S. office, my favorite pastime in this city is definitely the theater. Additionally, I love exploring our city’s parks and admiring its architecture, traveling anywhere and all over the world, and spending time with friends and family. I feel extremely grateful to work with such a remarkable staff and have the opportunity to be taught by so many incredible children!

Infant Room Staff

Heather Infants

HEATHER SMITH

I had worked at C.A.D.S. for over 18 years and returned happily in 2012. For the eight years I was away from C.A.D.S., I worked as a head teacher at Kindercare Learning Center now known as Knowledge Learning Center. I worked at Kindercare in Florida for four years, and while there, I attended classes in the development of infants and toddlers to get certified. When I transferred to Pennsylvania, I earned my CDA (Child Development Associate). In addition, I continued taking professional development classes every three months to further my knowledge of caring for young children. I also have attended the multiple day Infancy Institute at Bank Street College. My heart never left C.A.D.S. during my time away, so it’s wonderful to be back home. I look forward to continuing my position in the Infant Room this year and working with the youngest of our C.A.D.S. family.

NEIVA LOPEZ

Hello! I am so happy to join the C.A.D.S family. I was born in Lima, Peru and migrated to the United States in 1989. I am a mom of three wonderful children, Christopher, Genesys, and Vanessa. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Liberal Arts and Science with a concentration in Disability Studies from The City College of New York. For the past five years, I worked for a nonprofit organization taking care of 3 and 4 year olds. I love caring for and nurturing children of all ages. I started working in the Infant Room in April 2021, and it was four months full of fun and learning experiences. Then, I was excited to be part of the Toddler Room, where I enjoyed guiding and nurturing our Little Ones. This coming school year, I will be joining the Red Room. I am looking forward to creating new memories with our Red Roomers. I am grateful for this wonderful opportunity to continue growing professionally.

Thanks,
Neiva

BETTY ALVARADO

Hello, all! My name is Betty Alvarado. I am super excited to be returning to C.A.D.S and New York after a few years away. I am a New York native, who graduated from City College of New York with a major in Psychology and a concentration in Early Childhood Education along with a CDA. I have been working with children for about ten years now, and my incredible passion for working with children has only grown deeper. I am a strong believer that, “Teachers who love teaching, teach children to love learning.” I am also a proud mommy to a wonderful girl, named Allyson. Being a mom has amplified my love for teaching and has made me even more compassionate. I enjoy singing, dancing, and doing art with children. I love to motivate creativity and confidence in all you do. I am excited for this year and look forward to making amazing memories with your littles and loved ones.

LILLY JOHN

“Children are like a box of crayons with different colors and shapes. When gathered together, they create a magical rainbow.”

Hi, my Name is Augustina Lilly John—everyone calls me Lilly. I was born and raised in the Caribbean on a beautiful island called the Commonwealth of Dominica.

At an early age, I had the opportunity to work with children in the nursery school at the Catholic school that I attended. The experience helped develop my love for nurturing and teaching. I obtained my CDA credentials, and over the years, I continued to educate myself through various trainings and seminars.

During my many years of teaching, I spent a few good years here at Children’s All Day School. Now, I am excited to be back at C.A.D.S. after some time away, raising my two boys on Long Island. Both of my sons are C.A.D.S. alumni!

Making a difference in any child’s life is very important to me. I am eager to continue to my journey of learning and sharing.

Toddler Room Staff

MANUELA KATTERMANN

My name is Manuela Kattermann, but here at C.A.D.S., I’m known as Mella. Born and raised in Germany, I came to the U.S. in 1988 as an au pair. Since 1996, I have been a dedicated teacher at C.A.D.S., initially teaching the three-year-olds for five years before transitioning to working with the Toddlers, a role I have cherished ever since.

My daughter, Morgana, is a proud C.A.D.S. graduate. She has fond memories of her time here and has even contributed as a substitute teacher during several summers. I am delighted to share that Morgana is now a mother to my beautiful granddaughter, Louisa.

I look forward to meeting and working with the new Toddlers and their parents, anticipating another gratifying and rewarding year.

BORA LULA

Hi everyone,
My name is Bora Lula, and I have a bachelor’s degree in Foreign Language Teacher Education (Italian) and a master’s degree in Italian Literature. My passion is to provide a high-quality education and support to all students. I have taught in Italy, and during my years at the Istituto Compresivo IC Fermi, I worked as a teacher assistant and learned to build trust and meaningful relationships with students and parents. My passion for education comes from my father, who was a math and physics teacher for several years, continuing his career as a school principal. I live in New York with my wonderful husband, who is also an Italian language teacher! I am so excited to start this new school year at Children’s All Day School! My multicultural experience has taught me how to be flexible and adaptable to a student’s individual needs, and my passion is to create a learning environment that is engaging and stimulating for students.

YESI VELEZ

My name is Yesenia Velez, but I am called Yesi (Jessie). I have two wonderful daughters, Cynthia and Nicole. In 2000, I participated in the C.D.A. (Child Development Associate) program at Bank Street College. After working with my own three-year-old daughter, Nicole, at an Early Head Start (parent-child) program, I learned patience and understanding as well as other skills to help my daughter and other young children deal with everyday life. Utilizing these skills awakened the realization that I enjoyed guiding children’s development and giving them the tools with which to communicate. I am thrilled to be starting my 25th year as a co-teacher at C.A.D.S. and having the opportunity to work with a new group of children and their families.

LISA PAULICK

Lisa YR I moved from Chicago to New York in 2006. After many successful years in early childhood education, I received my BFA in Creative Writing from Brooklyn College. Daisy Takes the Train and How Sparky Found Darryl are both children’s books I wrote, which I hope to have published. Since 2007, I have enjoyed the privilege of working in every classroom. I have gained invaluable insight into different approaches to learning and the need to let children express themselves as fully as possible. I am so excited to be a floating teacher again this year.

Tots Room Staff

ROSANA HOLGUIN

Hi, my name is Rosana, and I’m the proud mommy of Mia and William, who began their early educational years here at C.A.D.S. I began my career at C.A.D.S. in 2001, which is when I also earned my CDA license. While interning with children of different ages, I quickly realized that working with young children is where my heart lies. Over the years, I have truly enjoyed guiding and sharing in the children’s journey. As I continue my most recent chapter at C.A.D.S., I am looking forward to collaborating with parents and encouraging the sense of wonder and exploration with Tots.

JAYLEEN ZAPATA

Hello, C.A.D.S. families! My name is Jayleen Zapata, and I was born and raised in Harlem. Currently, I am pursuing my nursing degree at Hostos Community College. I have had the privilege of volunteering at C.A.D.S. for several summers. This year, I am excited to further enhance my knowledge by working in the Tots Room, and I am looking forward to witnessing their developmental milestones. I am eager to meet the Tots and their parents this year!

YESI VELEZ

LISA PAULICK

Red Room Staff

JODI ROSENBERG

My name is Jodi, and I was born and raised in Connecticut. Coming from a large family and being part of my mother’s home day-care sparked my interest in children at an early age. I went on to attend Clark University in Massachusetts, where I participated in internships in local preschools as well as one in a private school in London, England. After college, I stayed in Boston teaching infants through pre-k, but the goal of one day living in NYC was waiting for me, so here I am. I completed my studies at Columbia University and received my master’s degree in Early Childhood/Elementary Education. I have always had a love for teaching and learning about young children. Whether I am witnessing it for the first time or the fiftieth, I am constantly amazed by the natural development I observe in the children with whom I work. This motivates me to continue to study and teach and to grow as an individual and as an educator. My association with C.A.D.S. began during the summer of 2003 when I interned in the two-year-olds classroom. I look forward to a new year of teaching in the Red Room at C.A.D.S.!

KIMBERLY HICKS

My name is Kimberly, although I am known to the children as “Kim.” I was born and raised in Harlem, New York. I have been a part of the C.A.D.S. family since the summer of 2017. I have been lucky enough to spend time in each classroom and have learned so much over the years, from the little ones and my fellow teachers. I look forward to the school year at C.A.D.S. and continuing to grow. Being here has made my passion for working with children even stronger, and I am thankful for the opportunity to keep going. I am happy to have earned my bachelor’s degree from John Jay College in May. I am excited for a great year!

STEPHANIE MIRABELLA

Hello, my name is Stephanie. I am originally from New Jersey and have been a New Yorker since 2016. In the evenings, I attend Hunter College, earning my degree.

When I was in kindergarten and my teacher asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up, I said I wanted to be a teacher. As a teen, I volunteered in animal rescue and worked as a camp counselor. I have loved working with children of all ages and seeing them smile brings me joy.

One of my favorite activities to do with children is read books to them. It creates an opportunity for learning, understanding, and using imagination, as well as creating a bond with the children. My favorite children’s book series is Pete the Cat.

I have been a teacher since 2019, and I look forward to being a teacher at C.A.D.S. for many years to come.

Orange Room Staff

ARIEL MALLOY

Hello! My name is Ariel Malloy, and I am so excited to be starting another year as a head teacher in the Orange Room. I am a New York native, who attended Marist College, where I pursued a bachelor’s degree in Biology, but promptly concluded that Education is my passion. There is nothing better than witnessing the wonder and awe a child experiences when learning something new. I come from a long line of teachers.
For over ten years now, I have had the privilege to help nurture children through music, theater, and dance. As part of an NAACP image award nominated gospel group, I hope to bring some new and fun musical, as well as educational, experiences to the Orange Room!

RAIN GARCIA

¡Hola! Welcome to C.A.D.S. I am Rain, and my journey at this school began in 2018. I look forward to continuing my journey with you all! I have earned a bachelor’s degree from Lehman College. I am also a mother to a beautiful girl, Luna, who attends this amazing school. I am so passionate about teaching. As children develop language and cognitive thinking skills, they will always find innovative ways of expressing themselves about the world from their perspective. For this reason, I strongly believe that art and music are fundamental to learning. Cheers to a new year and memories that will last a lifetime!

ANA RODRIGUEZ

Hi, C.A.D.S. Families! My name is Ana Rodriguez. I have a B.A. in Human Development and Family Studies and have been working with children since 2018. I am also a proud mommy to my three-year-old daughter, Stella. I am very excited to be a part of the C.A.D.S. community this upcoming school year. I look forward to continue growing and watching the children reach all their milestones!

Peace

Blue Room Staff

YEDMI OCHOA

Hi, everyone! My name is Yedmi Ochoa. I am excited to be working at Children’s All Day School. I am a graduate of City College of New York. I’ve earned my Bachelors of Science in Early Childhood Education with a concentration in Psychology. I’ve worked with children of all ages. One of my favorite activities to do with children are art projects. I love seeing how creative children are and how much they are learning at the same time. My passion is being able to work with children and provide an environment full of learning and fun. Therefore, I am looking forward to a fun and exciting year here at Children’s All Day School!

JESSICA PEREZ

Hello, everyone! My name is Jessica Perez. I received an associate degree in Early Childhood Education from Borough of Manhattan Community College. Throughout my career, I have worked with different age groups—from children one year of age to seventeen years old. The job that most inspired me to pursue a career in Early Childhood Education was my work with “AmeriCorps.” It opened many doors, allowing me to help my community with opportunities such as after-school programs and summer camps. I also enjoyed helping to build a playground. One reason that I love working with young children is their fascination with their surroundings—everything is so new to them; it makes me ecstatic to be a part of that. When I started at C.A.D.S. in 2013, I was a Substitute Teacher in the Yellow Room. I then spent seven years as an Assistant Teacher in the Red Room and three years in the Tots Room. I am looking forward to working again with the three-year-old children in the Blue Room and spending another year as part of the C.A.D.S. family.

TERESITA (TITA) OBRA

Hi! I’m Tita Obra, and I am from the Philippines. I have a bachelor’s degree in Social Work from the University of the City of Manila. I have been with C.A.D.S. since 2002. Throughout this entire time, guiding these young children has been a very enriching experience for me. It has made me realize that the role of nurturing, caring adults in the lives of the very young is so important. I hope to be able to continue making a difference in the children’s lives for many more years to come.

Green Room Staff

MARIA WEAVER

“Childhood Should Be a Journey, Not a Race”

My name is Maria Weaver, and I joined the Children’s All Day School staff in 1992. I have a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from City College. I love teaching young children; it has always been a passion of mine. My philosophy is pretty simple: young children learn through hands-on experiences that lead to meaningful connections. I also believe in developing a partnership with parents; it is one of the most important factors in laying a good foundation for children’s development and growth in their early childhood education. I have a wonderful daughter, who had the privilege of attending C.A.D.S. I look forward to meeting you and participating in your child’s educational journey.

LAUREN HALVORSEN

Hello, friends! My name is Lauren Halvorsen, and I am so excited to be here at C.A.D.S.! I recently graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Human Development and Family Studies at Brigham Young University. I highly value family, respect, compassion, and sincerity. I genuinely enjoy cleaning and organizing, the arts, and I love helping the people around me. My primary goal in my work with children is to be helpful, encourage positive autonomy, and enable growth. I have a passion for childcare and a firm understanding of the influence educators have on a child’s day-to-day development. Children make this world a better place!

MONIQUE HICKS

My number one goal as an educator is to instill confidence in every child, so they know they are able to accomplish anything they put their creative minds to. Because with accomplishments comes greatness!

Being able to educate children for the past eleven years has been an experience in which I revel. Witnessing children flourish is a gift in itself!

I have been here at C.A.D.S. since 2015, starting as a substitute and soon after accepting a full-time position. I have
had the opportunity to explore all rooms here. Nonetheless, I look forward to my future here at
Children’s All Day School, creating new and inspiring memories with our Green Roomers!

Yellow Room Staff

PASCAL KIM

Teaching has become an integral part of my life. Working with young children is very rewarding in that it is energizing to see the children become excited about learning. I have been teaching at C.A.D.S. since 1999. I have a B.S. in Sociology and an M.S. in Early Childhood Education from Hunter College. In my free time, I enjoy practicing the Japanese martial arts of Aikido and Iaido, archery and playing golf. I am also an instructor at the New York Aikkai, holding a 4th degree black belt in Aikido. I am happy to be part of the C.A.D.S. family and to be making a contribution in the lives of children.

MAI NGUYEN

“I hear, I forget, I see, and I remember, I do, and I understand!”

I have a passion for teaching and have always wanted to educate young children. The children’s excitement for learning motivates me each day. Their constant growth, curiosity, and achievements sustain my enthusiasm for teaching. I enjoy guiding children through the discovery of their world. I have been teaching at C.A.D.S. for 20+ years and have enjoyed every moment of my career. I have a B.A. in Psychology from GVSU and an M.A. in Early Childhood/Elementary Education from NYU.

When I am not working, I enjoy reading, listening to music, taking nature walks, spending time with family and friends, and seeing new things in unique and different ways. I am excited to collaborate with the Yellow Room teachers, parents, and children to create a joyful and successful learning environment. I look forward to the journey we will all embark on this year!

KEITH WARDEN

Hello C.A.D.S families! My name is Keith Warden, and I was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York. I have had the pleasure of working with all age groups at our school, starting with the Tots and Toddlers all the way up to Yellow Room! For the past four years, I have enjoyed watching the children grow. Together, we play, learn, and discover fun things!

Before working at C.A.D.S., I worked as a paraprofessional for the public school system. I worked closely with children, teachers, and parents to support the individual needs of each child in order to help them achieve their goals. This experience has carried over to my work here at C.A.D.S., and I continue to work in the same way with all of the families, children, and staff.

My favorite activity here at C.A.D.S. is yard time! I encourage the children to develop their gross-motor skills and strengthen their bodies through running, crawling, and more! However, you will also find me in any room laughing, playing, and reading stories.

I am excited to be part of the C.A.D.S family!

ZENAB ADJEI

Hello, my name is Zenab Adjei. I have been working for ten years as an assistant teacher. I graduated with an associate degree in Early Childhood Education at Borough of Manhattan Community College (BMCC). I am presently working on a bachelor’s degree at Lehman College. While at Borough of Manhattan Community College, I gained experience in the classroom by working at several day cares with children ranging from 18 months old to 5 years old. I look forward to working with my fellow teachers and this new group of children starting this September.