741 S. Pennsylvania Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789
Teacher
In 2019, Ms. Kiara earned her degree in Sociology with hopes of pursuing child counseling, but later decided to teach instead. Since them, she has been teaching elementary and pre-k age.
“I love teaching and witnessing the children learn and grow.”
“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.
To read the article featuring Winter Park Day Nursery, visit ‘Living diaper to diaper’: Collection to aid parents who cannot afford key baby supply by Michael Cuglietta with the Orlando Sentinel.
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.”
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!”
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.
Teacher
Ms. Annese was born and raised in Florida. As she finishes high school and prepares for college at Valencia, her goal is to major in Finance, but her passion for early education has always been there. Providing assistance to young children with disabilities has been a part of her life since becoming a teaching assistant in 5th grade. She also volunteered as an assistant camp counselor at the Winter Park Community Center with over 300 hours during the summer of 2022. Ms. Annese began volunteering at Winter Park Day Nursery in the same year and was given an internship shortly after, and now working here.
“As I begin my journey at Winter Park Day Nursery, I am excited for what this year will bring.”
“There are places in your heart you don’t even know exist until you love a child.” – Anne Lamott
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.
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!
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.”
