4's Lead Teacher

My name is Penny Linden. I have been teaching preschool for over twenty years. I have taught the 2s, 3s, and 4s. I am passionate about teaching young children. I received my degree in Early Childhood Education from McGill University in Montreal Canada. I regularly attend educational workshops to learn about the latest research in early childhood development and education.

I have three grownup, wonderful, successful children who I am very proud of.

My philosophy is an emergent approach which is a way of teaching and planning curriculum that focuses on being responsive to children’s interests to create meaningful learning experiences. The goal is to create life long learners in a nurturing, supportive environment.

4’s Assistant Teacher

My name is Yessenia Pedraza and I am the Assistant Teacher in the 4’s. I attended Mercy College and received a degree in Early Childhood Education. I love to work with children and have done so for the last 10 years. I’ve worked with children ages 1 to 14. I am fluent in Spanish.

I love to work with children, because no single day is ever the same. I love to see their smiles, which brighten up my day. Working with children gives us the opportunity to watch them grow and become confident and self-sufficient learners.

4’s Lead Teacher

My name is Joy Salvatore and I have guided the development of young children ages 2 through 6 years since earning my education degree in 1995. I received my Elementary Education degree from Salve Regina University in Newport Rhode Island. Recently, I received a teaching certificate (CDA) in Early Childhood Education. I have taught in various childcare programs, a private school first grade class and most recently Universal Pre-K Head Start.

I am passionate about preparing students for kindergarten and creating an environment where students feel safe to express themselves, comfortable enough to take chances and try new things. An environment whereby students attain learning naturally through play and real-world experiences so that they can reach their full potential. Finally, an environment that creates a lifelong love of learning!

I have two adult children who are my pride and joy and I love spending time with family.

4’s Assistant Teacher

Hi everyone, I’m Albena. I’m thrilled to be working with your children at the Hitchcock School. I'm looking forward to being part of their learning journey and watching their personalities blossom.

For over 13 years, I worked as an assistant teacher at two New York City public schools. During that time, I was an active member of the PTA, serving as President for several years. I also worked with several nonprofit organizations that provided after-school and summer camp programs at our schools.

I have two wonderful children who are now 25 and 27. Each day spent with your little ones brings back fond memories of when my kids were toddlers. I believe that all of life’s challenges can be solved with one simple solution—a hug from my kids!

I’m excited for a fantastic year ahead!

3’s Lead Teacher

I grew up in Italy and lived in various countries such as France, Germany, England and the United States. I hold a bachelor’s degree in translation, interpretation, and international relations. I have worked in the field of early childhood education since 2003. I enjoy teaching because I can make a difference in the lives of children and watch them grow and learn!

3's Assistant Teacher

Hello, My name is Mariam. I graduated from Lehman College with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English Literature and Early Childhood Education with the honors of Cum Laude. Looking forward to pass on the knowledge I have gained throughout my time in college and the years after. 
I am also currently working on getting my teaching certification very soon. 
For now, as an assistant teacher I love working and dealing with children and  preschoolers. I feel comfortable and I find them easier to deal with. Bonding and communicating with them is amazing. I worked with this particular age group in previous positions such as private schools and community centers. I'm very passionate in making a difference, succeed, and thrive in their future. As an assistant teacher at the Hitchcock School, my main concern is to work hard ,make learning fun, have students excited and eager to learn, help them express their feelings, their opinions, how to communicate with one another, and how to be responsible. I am a very patient person as I have my own two boys who are 8 and 6 years old.  And that's what makes me passionate about my job and love everything about it.

3’s Lead Teacher

Hello, parents and little ones! I'm Brianna Hauser, and I'm thrilled to be a part of your child's early learning journey here at The Hitchcock School. With over 7 years of experience in childcare, I have dedicated myself to nurturing young minds and fostering a love for learning in our youngest learners. I hold a BS/BA in Early Childhood and Elementary Education, and am continuing my studies to receive my Master's degree. My passion for teaching started at a very young age, and has continued to blossom each year.

My approach to teaching revolves around creating a warm and engaging environment where toddlers feel safe to explore, play, and discover. Through interactive games, creative activities, and gentle guidance, I aim to support each child's social, emotional, and cognitive development. With that said I also value our community not only as a classroom, but to the grown ups raising these amazing young learners.

3’s Assistant Teacher

My name is Flaminia, I was born and grew up in Rome, Italy. I achieved my Master’s Degree in Pharmacy at "La Sapienza University" in Rome, where I worked for many years. After marriage I decided to follow my husband for his job, therefore we traveled a lot, and I worked in different fields. I lived several years in UAE Dubai and Abu Dhabi and then I moved to Florida and New York.

In all my life I always had the opportunity to follow my children and work in their schools. I enjoy being with kids because every day is different and there is a lot to take from them.

2’s Lead Teacher

I was in a business field over ten years before entering the Early Childhood Education field. I graduated from Baruch College with a BBA. After my daughter was born, I studied and received the teaching certificate (CDA) in Early Childhood Education. I have been with Hitchcock school for almost 20 years. During my career I have taught 2’s, 3’s and 4’s in summer camp and the regular school year. It is my greatest pleasure to be a part of the most important years of your child’s life. I am fluent in English and Japanese.

2’s Assistant Teacher

My name is Latasha Anthony and I’ve been in the early childhood education field for over 13 years! Specifically working with the 2’s age group for over 6 years.I love to work with children, it’s amazing watching their growth. I have 3 children of my own! People ask how do I have young children and work with young children? My response is always a famous saying, “when you love what you do, you will never work!”

Lead Toddler Teacher

Hello! My name is Shannon Bennett, and I’m looking forward to a fun and exciting school year. As the Lead Teacher for the toddler program, I bring over 15 years of experience working with young children and a deep passion for early childhood education. I believe the early years are a magical and critical time in a child’s life—a time for imagination, discovery, and building the foundation for lifelong learning. Nothing brings me more joy than creating a warm, nurturing, and engaging environment where toddlers feel safe, supported, and excited to grow. I’m thrilled to be part of the Hitchcock community and to help each child begin their journey with confidence, curiosity, and care.

Administrative Assistant

My name is Marisa Mazzella. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Pace University. I’ve worked in the business field for over 10 years before deciding to switch to childhood education.

I have worked as a teacher assistant in the 3’s program at a preschool and also as an elementary teacher assistant in a religious education program. In 2008, I became a mother to boy/girl twins.

I am happy to be part of The Hitchcock School and to have the opportunity to support the teachers and adorable children in this wonderful program.

Music Teacher, Musical Munchkins

Mila Barrett (Ms Mila) received a bachelor’s degree in music teaching from Kurenkeev Music College, a Master’s degree in music and classical guitar from Beshenalieva Institute of Arts in Russia, and another post-graduate degree in classical guitar performance from Kyrgyz State Conservatory. She taught classical guitar at a children’s music school in Kyrgyzstan for ten years. After moving to the United States and having children, she became interested in early childhood music education and has been a teacher in the Musical Munchkins of Westchester program since 2001. Ms Mila believes every child has talent in music and enjoys bringing that talent out in all of her students and watching them grow with music.