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, 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 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 Ms. Gaby, and my most cherished title is Mom to my little guy, Liam. In addition to motherhood, I am proud to serve as the Assistant Director and Head Teacher at KGLC. I have been part of the KGLC family since 2010 and have had the privilege of working with children of all ages.
I hold an Associate’s in Early Childhood Education from Middlesex Community College, and a Bachelor’s in Interdisciplinary Studies and Psychology from Southern Connecticut State University, and a Director Credential from Charter Oak State University.
Building strong relationships with my students and watching them grow is my greatest joy. I love being part of their learning journey
every day!
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 both a certificate and an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education. I’ve been a part of the KGLC family since I was 2 years old in 1996, and I am proud to say that I am a KGLC graduate! I returned to KGLC in 2013 and have had the privilege of working with children of all ages. Currently, I serve as the Lead Teacher in the Terrific Twos & Preschool program and Childcare Supervisor on our leadership team. I truly love coming to work each day and teaching my class—it's such a rewarding experience to support my students' growth and development!
Ms. Liz
Childcare Supervisor & Toddler Teacher
Hello! My name is Elizabeth, and I grew up in Meriden, CT. I graduated from Tunxis Community College with an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education in 2021. I’ve been a part of the KGLC family since I was 3 years old in 2001, and I’m proud to say I came back to work here in 2016. I started as an aide for all ages and now have the pleasure of teaching young learners and serving as a Childcare Supervisor on our Leadership Team. I absolutely love teaching because each child is unique, and I cherish the different connections I get to build with them. I’m excited to watch your child grow and develop during their time at KGLC!
Ms. Genesis
Infant/Toddler Teacher
Hello! My name is Genesis, and I was born and raised in Meriden, CT. I graduated from Francis T. Maloney High School in 2018. I absolutely love working with infants and toddlers—it’s such a joy to care for them, support their development, and watch them grow each day. Seeing the world through their eyes is a truly special experience, and I’m grateful to be part of their early learning journey! I am passionate about expanding my knowledge in early childhood education through professional development and continuing education, allowing me to provide the best care and learning experiences for the children in my classroom. I’m grateful to be part of their early learning journey!
Ms. Emma
Teacher's Assistant
Hello! My name is Emma. I was born and raised in Meriden, CT, and I have the best dog in the world, Luna! I graduated from H.C. Wilcox Tech in 2021 with a focus on cosmetology, but my passion for working with children led me to early childhood education. I love continuing my learning through online courses and have been a proud part of the Kinder-Garden Learning Center family since 2021. Working in the two-year-old room is so rewarding—I love watching their personalities blossom, supporting their curiosity, and helping them grow each day. The two-year-old stage is such a special time of growth, and I’m grateful to nurture and teach these little learners every day.
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Ms. Sierra
Teacher's Aide
Hello! My name is Sierra. I am excited to be a part of the KGLC family. I look forward to getting to know our children and families and contributing to our warm, supportive learning environment.
Ms. Amachi
Teacher's Aide
Hello! My name is Amachi, and I'm thrilled to join the Kinder-Garden Learning Center team. I am passionate about helping children learn, grow, and discover new things each day!
Ms. Karen
Curriculum & Teacher Support
Hello! My name is Karen, and I’m a proud mother to three wonderful girls. I grew up in Wallingford, CT, and 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 hold teaching certifications in both Connecticut and North Carolina. I have been a part of the Kinder-Garden Learning Center family since 2010, and I am passionate about supporting the incredible staff, children, and families here. I’m also a proud member of the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), staying connected to the latest in early childhood development and best practices.
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.
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Ms. Nancy
Substitute Teacher
Hello, my name is Ms. Nancy, and I am the proud mother of two sons and a daughter—who happens to be the amazing Ms. Gaby, who also made me a grandma to my precious grandson, Liam. I’ve lived in Meriden for almost my entire life and graduated from Platt High School in 1989. After that, I began my career at Aetna, where I’ve proudly worked for 36 years. I started volunteering at KGLC four years ago and decided to join the KGLC family. I truly enjoy working with the children, families, and staff at KGLC.
A FUN PLACE TO GROW!
