Support Staff

Concepcion Torres

Teacher

In 2013, Ms. Concepcion graduated from Rollins College with a Bachelors degree in International Affairs and holds a Masters degree in Biblical and Theological Foundations from Asbury Theological Seminary. In November of 2022, she became certified as a Registered Behavior Technician working with children with autism and disabilities. She has experience working with pregnant women and infants in her previous professional roles. Ms. Concepcion is fully bi-lingual in English and Spanish and has a heart for children. 

“My motivation in life is to make a difference in the lives of others, particularly in the lives of precious children. My heart smiles when I see a child growing into their full potential at each developmental milestone.”

Support Staff

Shonteana King

Teacher

In May of 2021, Ms. King graduated from Cleveland State University with a Bachelors of Science in Education. She is so excited to be in the sunshine state and is ready to help shape some beautiful minds! Ms. King has been working with children since 2018, ages newborn to 9th grade. 

“I can’t wait to see what this new journey has in store for me. It’s a great day to have a great day!”

Ali's Corner

‘The check is going straight to daycare’

The check is going straight to daycare

“The constant challenge of preschool owners and directors is to create a quality program that parents would like to bring their children to, and feel safe to do so, while also keeping the cost as low as possible,” said Ali DeMaria, executive director of the Winter Park Day Nursery.

To read the full article featuring Winter Park Day Nursery, visit ‘‘The check is going straight to daycare’: Parents struggle with high cost of child care by Michael Cuglietta with the Orlando Sentinel.

Support Staff

Ashley Hernandez

Teacher

Ms. Ashley grew up in Kissimmee, Florida and realized that she wanted to work with young children in college. She graduated with her Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of Central Florida. Ms. Ashley completed her practicum with Winter Park Day Nursery and made the decision to begin her career here as well. 

“I am excited to be a part of a child’s growth and learning experiences and to make a positive impact every day.” 

Toddlers

Denisse Maruri

Teacher

Ms. Denisse graduated from the University of Central Florida in 2023 with a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Development and Education. She was raised here in Orlando and enjoys going to the beach, parks, painting, reading, and spending time with her family and friends.

“I enjoy creating bonds with children and watching them hit milestones while seeing their different personalities develop.”

It takes a big heart to teach little minds. 

Ali's Corner

 

 

K-Ready Community Initiative

Ms. Ali had the pleasure of participating in the K-Ready Community initiative (https://getkready.com/) since just prior to the global pandemic. In 2022, their group took on a research and planning project funded by Helios Education Foundation. This process resulted in some important key findings and recommendations just published in November 2023. The full report to Key Findings and recommendations can be found here.

This report shows the important findings we must work toward to keep early care and education options viable for all families. With the support of the Early Learning Coalition of Central Florida, funders like Helios Foundation and community advocates, we can help move the needle on increasing awareness in support of the early care and education industry which is the backbone to economic growth in our communities.

Ali's Corner

The Culture of Caring

The Culture of Caring at Winter Park Day Nursery

Sheets of construction paper receive a healthy dose of glue as chatter, laughs, and occasional shouts fill the classroom at Winter Park Day Nursery. While aspiring young artists create the morning’s art project, instructors and assistants continue a tradition that dates back to 1939. Winter Park Day Nursery was founded during a time when mothers, working at the local citrus packing plant, would need their elementary school-age children to miss classes in order to care for their preschool-age siblings. Elementary school principal, Dr. Nelson Glass, worked with a local church group to create the day school as a means of getting older children back to class and providing younger children with daycare and an educational foundation.

To read the rest, visit The Culture of Caring at WPDN by Jim Carchidi with the32789!

Toddlers

Yaxielis Benejam

Teacher

Ms. Yaxi has always been extremely passionate and committed to advancing the growth and potential of children. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and has obtained certification in Play Therapy from the University of Central Florida. Ms. Yaxi is eager to be part of the WPDN family and is looking forward to incorporating her skillset to continue growing and changing lives.

“Having my students run over to squeeze me as soon as they walk through my door brightens my days. Knowing that I provide them with a safe place and comfort. Seeing their faces brighten up is the most rewarding feeling.”

Preschool

Amelia Armstrong

Teacher

Ms. Amelia is a UCF graduate with a degree in English Literature and has a passion for education. She has taught many different ages including VPK, first grade, and middle school English. Ms. Amelia is excited to be a part of WPDN’s school family.

“I love seeing children discover the world around them. Being able to be a part of their education is so special and beautiful!”