DIRECTOR / FOUNDER

With over 50 years of experience in child development, Ms. Joan brings a deep commitment to supporting children and their families. As Director of a school that has been a trusted part of the community for 45 years, she ensures that both children and parents feel welcomed, supported, and heard. Joan is dedicated to creating a positive, engaging space where every child can thrive. She works closely with families and educators to address any learning or developmental challenges that may arise during the toddler years, helping each child build confidence, curiosity, and a love for learning.

PRESCHOOL PROGRAM LEAD

With 40 years of teaching experience, Ms. Dette is the first friendly face to welcome toddlers to New Horizons. She creates a warm, engaging space where young learners can thrive through hands-on exploration. Using various musical instruments, she brings nursery rhymes to life, encouraging language development and joyful interaction. In her classroom, children dive into sensory-rich activities like painting, sand play, and collaborative building projects—sparking creativity, problem-solving, and social skills. Ms. Dette’s passion for nurturing young minds shines through in every moment, helping children build confidence and develop the foundation for a lifelong love of learning.

PRESCHOOL PROGRAM SUBSTITUTE

Ms. Paola is often the first point of connection for children as they begin their preschool adventure at New Horizons. She has a natural ability to ease those first-day jitters, helping little ones feel safe and supported as they settle into their new environment. She seamlessly weaves Spanish into everyday lessons, enriching activities that inspire creativity, problem-solving, communication, and socialization. By fostering a space where children can explore, work independently, and engage in group activities, Ms. Paola supports the development of well-rounded learners who are both independent and cooperative. By blending language learning with foundational preschool experiences, Ms. Paola plays a vital role in helping children grow into independent, cooperative learners.

TEACHING ASSISTANT

Ms. Hana joined New Horizons in 2024 and has quickly become an integral part of the team, bringing her passion for arts and creativity into the classroom. While new to early childhood education, she actively engages the children by incorporating her interests in storytelling, art, and outdoor exploration.

She loves reading stories, bringing them to life and sparking the children’s imaginations. Ms. Hana also enjoys guiding the children through creative art projects, especially during Ms. Dette’s activities, where they express themselves in fun, hands-on ways. Her hobbies, such as journaling and crocheting, inspire new creative experiences for the kids, encouraging them to explore their own creativity.

Ms. Hana’s ability to connect with the children and her enthusiasm for fostering creativity make her a valued member of the team. She is excited to grow alongside the children every day, helping them discover their potential.

PRE-KINDERGARTEN PROGRAM LEAD

Ms. Ria has been a dedicated part of New Horizons for 25 years, with 35 years of experience in early childhood education. Both of her children attended the school, and now her grandson is part of the community, strengthening her deep connection to New Horizons.

She loves seeing children’s excitement as they learn, especially during morning rug time, where she helps them spell their names. Incorporating art, music, and stories into lessons, she fosters creativity, language development, and problem-solving.

Outside the classroom, Ms. Ria enjoys traveling, hiking, spending time with family, and caring for animals. To her, New Horizons is more than a school—it’s a second home filled with love and cherished memories.

PRE-KINDERGARTEN PROGRAM SUBSTITUTE

Ms. Yoanet brings her love for learning and exploration to the pre-kindergarten classroom, where children dive into exciting lessons about the senses, the human body, and the alphabet. With a passion for encouraging curiosity, she creates engaging experiences that help children build foundational skills for reading, writing, and understanding the world around them. When she’s not in the classroom, Ms. Yoanet enjoys hiking and spending time with her golden retriever. Her creative energy and joyful approach make learning an adventure every day at New Horizons.

KINDERGARTEN PROGRAM

KINDRGARTEN PROGRAM CO-LEAD

Ms. Judy brings warmth and dedication to New Horizons, enriched by her passion for working with children, creativity, and community. With a love for crafts, movies, and caring for animals, she fosters an engaging and inclusive atmosphere where every child feels valued. Ms. Judy’s nurturing approach encourages curiosity, self-expression, and joyful learning experiences. Her genuine love for kids and commitment to making each day meaningful help create a supportive environment where children can thrive.

AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM

With decades of experience in child development, Ms. Cynthia brings a wealth of knowledge and dedication to New Horizons. She is deeply involved in the day-to-day operations, ensuring that children feel supported and valued. A nature enthusiast, Ms. Cynthia draws inspiration from the outdoors, encouraging curiosity, exploration, and a sense of wonder in her students. Her insightful guidance helps children overcome developmental challenges, fostering confidence, independence, and a love for discovery in every child she works with.

SPECIAL EVENTS AND DECOR COORDINATOR

TEACHER’S ASSISTANT / OFFICE MANAGER

Ms. Lia has been a valued member of the New Horizons community for the past eight years, serving as both the office manager and a classroom assistant. With over 12 years of experience in early childhood education, she brings a warm and engaging presence to the classroom, supporting lead teachers and fostering a positive learning environment. As a mother of two, Ms. Lia understands the importance of creating a space where children feel safe, respected, and encouraged to explore.

She finds joy in watching the children’s curiosity bloom as they engage with new lessons and activities. Music, movement, and art are key elements in her approach, helping children develop creativity, self-expression, and important social-emotional skills. Inspired by her own mother, a dedicated early childhood educator, Ms. Lia views teaching as a calling and treasures the opportunity to grow alongside the children every day.