Our Story

Rooted in Care, Growing with Purpose

At Kinder-Garden Learning Center & Childcare, we provide year-round, full-time care for children ranging from 6 weeks to 6 years old. Founded by Maria D'Angelo Neubauer, our center combines a family-like atmosphere with a structured, enriching curriculum to support every child's growth and development.

Maria’s journey began in high school, where she volunteered as a tutor and taught religious education. After earning her Bachelor's in Early Childhood Education from Southern Connecticut State University, she became the director of a successful daycare. When parents continued to reach out after her maternity leave, Maria decided to start her own childcare business. What started as a state-licensed home daycare quickly expanded into a thriving center in 1994, with help from her family and community.

Through her hard work and dedication, Maria built a program focused on hands-on learning, music, art, and language skills to prepare children for school. Kinder-Garden became nationally accredited by the NAEYC in 1999 and was recognized by the City of Meriden as a School Readiness Provider.

Maria’s commitment to excellence extends to her carefully selected team of educators. With an “open door” policy, she ensures families always feel welcome and supported. We are proud of the strong relationships we build with each family and are honored to be trusted with your child's early education.

Thank you for considering Kinder-Garden Learning Center & Childcare – we look forward to partnering with you in your child’s journey!

Our Staff

At Kinder-Garden Learning Center, our dedicated staff is the heart of our program. Each team member is carefully selected for their passion for early childhood education, nurturing nature, and commitment to creating a positive, engaging learning environment. With extensive training, a deep understanding of child development, and a focus on individualized care, our teachers and caregivers work closely with each child to support their growth and foster a love for learning. We believe in building strong, trusting relationships with both children and parents, ensuring a supportive, family-centered experience for all.

Meet The Team

Mrs. Maria

Founder & Director

Hello! My name is Maria Neubauer and I grew up in Wallingford, CT. My husband and I have been married for 31 years and have three wonderful adult children. I have also been blessed with four granddaughters and a grandson. I graduated from Southern Connecticut State University and earned my Masters Degree in Early Childhood Education with a concentration in Special Education. I have my reading endorsement as well as my ESOL endorsement (educating students of other languages). I have been a NAEYC validator and have built this childcare center on the foundations of these practices to nurture and develop children to achieve success. I opened this center 28 years ago and continue to provide children with experiential learning.

Ms. Gaby

Assistant Director & Head Teacher

Hello! My name is Gaby Veguilla. I grew up in Meriden, CT but currently reside in Middletown. I am the proud mommy to a wonderful litle boy, Liam and I have the cutest little fur baby, named Paisley. I graduated from, Middlesex Community College with an Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Education and graduated from Southern Connecticut State University with a Bachelor's of Arts Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies and Psychology. I have been a part of the KGLC family since 2010. I have worked with all age groups in the KGLC family, but my favorite age group is the 3-5 group. I started as an aide in 2010 and have worked hard to get to the Head Teacher/Assistant Director role while working closely with Mrs. Maria over the years.

Ms. Serena

Childcare Supervisor & Preschool Teacher

Hello! My name is Serena and I grew up in Meriden, CT. I have two amazing children Sophia and Joel. I graduated from, Middlesex Community College in 2017 with an ECE Certificate and I graduated with my Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Education in 2021. I am currently continuing my education at Southern Connecticut State University to work on my Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education. This is my 4th year being the lead two's teacher and going on 10 years working at KGLC with all ages. I love working with the two year-olds and I am super excited to continue working with them this year

Ms. Liz

Childcare Supervisor & Nursery School Teacher

Hello! My name is Elizabeth Caraballo and I grew up in Meriden, CT. I graduated from, Orville H. Platt High School in 2016 and earned my high school diploma. I am currently attending Tunxis Community College and am working toward an Early Childhood Education Associates Degree. This is my fourth year teaching Nursey School at Kinder-Garden Learning Center. I love teaching Nursey School because each child is unique and I have a different connection with each one. I am excited to watch your child grow and develop.

Ms. Sylvia

Toddler Teacher

Hello! My name is Sylvia. I was born and raised in San Antonio Texas, but moved to Connecticut in the 80s. I graduated from Harlendale High School in San Antonio and then attended Springfield and Middlesex Community College to study Early Childhood Education. I am the proud mother of two sons and a daughter, who have given me five beautiful grandchildren and one darling great-grandchild. I love being apart of the KGLC family and working alongside families.

Ms. Genesis

Infant/Toddler Teacher

Hello! My name is Genesis. I have enjoyed being a part of the KGLC family and watching your child grow and develop.

Ms. Emma

Teacher's Aide

Hello! My name is Emma and I was born and raised in Meriden, CT. I graduated from Wilcox Technical High School in 2021. I love helping and learning new things every day.

Ms. Yenalis

Teacher's Aide

Hello! My name is Yenalis and I am excited to be a part of the KGLC family.

Ms. Lindsay

Teacher's Aide

Hello! My name is Lindsay and I am excited to watch your children learn and grow.

Ms. Sophia

Teacher's Aide

Hello! My name is Sophia and I am happy to be a part of the KGLC family. I have loved getting to know all the children and families at the center.

Ms. Karen

Curriculum & Teacher Support

Hello! My name is Karen and I grew up in Wallingford, CT. I graduated from Eastern Connecticut State University with a Bachelor's of Science in Early Childhood Education and a Bachelor's of Science in Psychology. I love being a part of the KGLC family and working with the staff, children, and families.

Mr. Rob

Administrator

Hello! My name is Rob and I am the school administrator. I currently hold a National Administrator Crediental (NAC). I am originally from Meriden, CT and attended UCONN and Central Connecticut State University. I have enjoyed working at KGLC since it opened in 1995 with my wife Maria.

Ms. Miriam

Substitute Teacher

Hello! My name is Miriam and I am so happy to be a part of the KGLC family once again. I have sent my children to KGLC years ago and now I am back at KGLC as a substitute teacher and I am enjoying every minute being with these amazing children, families, and staff.

Ms. Nancy

Substitute Teacher

Hello! My name is Nancy and I am happy to be able to substitute for the children at KGLC. I enjoy being apart of the KGLC family.

Our Story

Our Staff

Meet The Team

A FUN PLACE TO GROW!