Jamaica Plain Team

Head of School

PhD, University of Michigan
M.Ed., Shady Hill School/Lesley University
B.A., Brown University
pcipparone@thecroftschool.org

Peter joined Croft in 2020. Peter is passionate about helping to provide meaningful learning opportunities for diverse groups of students. He believes strongly in The Croft School's desire to create inclusive and actively anti-bias school communities where students are challenged, supported, and excited about learning.

Peter joined Croft in 2020 after serving as a vice principal in the Brookline Public Schools, completing a PhD in Educational Studies at the University of Michigan, and teaching 4th grade in the NYC Public Schools. As a teacher, he loved developing classroom community, sparking debates about read aloud books and real world math problems, and engaging in project-based learning experiences with students.

In his free time, Peter enjoys playing tennis, reading, singing, spending time with Felix, Liz, and Oslo (his toddler, wife, and dog, respectively), and traveling to Maine, Michigan, and abroad.

Assistant Head of School

Master of Education,
Boston University
staneja@thecroftschool.org

Shilpa joined Croft in 2022. Shilpa is incredibly excited to be the Founding Assistant Head of School at the Croft School. At Croft, Shilpa loves working with families, building relationships with students, developing fun (and challenging!) learning opportunities, and being a part of our inclusive and welcoming classroom communities.

Shilpa comes to Croft after serving as an instructional coach and teacher in Boston, after recently working with K-5 Science, 2nd Grade, and Associate Teachers. Shilpa has been teaching and learning in Boston for the past 10 years. She completed her M.Ed at Boston University in Curriculum and Teaching and prior to that, attended Northeastern University with a focus on Elementary Education and Psychology.

In her free time, you can find Shilpa hanging out with family and friends, going for walks around Jamaica Pond, riding her Peloton, drinking iced coffee, and reading!

Director of Operations

nfaisonbrewster@thecroftschool.org

Natalya joined Croft in 2023. Croft is a school community where students actively participate in civic engagement - something dear to Natalya's heart.

Before Croft, most recently, Natalya worked in a local Boston school co-leading operations but has also supported high school, first-generation students through the college application process and provided mentorship as they navigate life on campus to ensure they persist through college and actualize their dreams.

Outside of Croft, Natalya enjoys all things fashion, reformer pilates, world news, volunteer work, and podcasts.

Music Teacher

M.M., Boston University College of Fine Arts
B.M., Indiana University Jacobs School of Music
asmith@thecroftschool.org

Aaron joined Croft in 2024. Aaron loves the Croft's commitment to inclusivity and progressive values. The Croft's focus on play and exploration are foundational for music learning. He is excited to be a part of the Forest Hills Jamaica Plain community as they live just past Franklin Park in Dorchester.

Aaron went to the Jacobs School of Music at Indiana University for undergraduate degrees in viola performance and music composition. They then moved to Boston in 2016 for a Master's degree in music composition from Boston University College of Fine Arts. Aaron's creative work has mostly focused on mixing acoustic instruments with electronic elements, performing live with computers, and audiovisual collaboration, particularly with experimental filmmakers. He has been a teacher of music composition and electronic music at New England Conservatory's Preparatory School since 2019.

Outside of teaching and making music Aaron co-runs a live music series called TRANSPORTER at the Boston Cyberarts Gallery in JP. Otherwise, you'll find Aaron playing with their two Frenchies, Dori and Chupacabra. He is passionate about food and coffee and is often out and about in the city exploring new spots for both. He's an obsessive reader and fan of public transportation.

4th Grade Teacher

Master of Education,
James Madison University
afishman@thecroftschool.org

Alix joined Croft in 2024. Alix feels that Croft is a great fit because of how student centered the learning is. She is excited about the project based learning and unique fieldwork opportunities that will allow the classroom learning to come alive.

Alix has spent over a decade as an educator in the greater Boston area. Her first three years were spent in Stoughton, MA teaching 4th grade. She then went to Boston Public Schools where she taught at UP Academy Holland in Dorchester. In her time at UP Alix has taught both 4th grade and 1st grade.

Outside of Croft Alix enjoys spending time with her family in Brookline and on Cape Cod. Her two boys (4 and 16 months) keep her very busy! She also enjoys trying new restaurants and exploring Boston.

Associate Kindergarten Teacher

B.A., Criminal Justice (emphasis in Restorative Justice),
Howard Payne University
ajowers@thecroftschool.org

Alsatia joined Croft in 2023. Our key attributes is what interested Alsatia in pursuing an opportunity with the Croft School as they aligned with her own hopes and goals as an educator. It was exciting for her, this past year as the Science Enrichment teacher, to watch how purposeful play and academics were balanced in each grade level at Croft. Her strong relationships with the students and her fellow educators cemented her desire to continue with Croft, and she looks forward to continuing to provide rigor and spark to students as an Associate Kindergarten Teacher.

Shortly after graduating from college, Alsatia's spark for teaching quickly ignited when she taught English as a Second Language online. Even through a screen, she felt a passion in helping her students grow and learn. After teaching online, Alsatia then moved across the world to Mokpo, South Korea where she taught English in a private academy. For three years she taught from ages 5 to 14, and even had the opportunity to teach a few seminars at Mokpo University! After taking a year off to spend with family, Alsatia then moved to Boston and taught as the Science Enrichment Teacher here at the Croft School. Now going into her 2nd year at Croft, she is very excited to work with Kindergarten as an Associate Teacher.

Outside of Croft, Alsatia enjoys reading, writing, playing volleyball, and playing video games with friends!

Northeastern Co-Op

Anita is a current third year at Northeastern University pursuing a B.S. in Economics and Psychology.

She is originally from San Diego, California and loves to go to yoga, read, and shop in her free time. She is very passionate about working with kids.

2nd Grade Teacher

Master of Science: Special Education, Bank Street College of Education
Bachelor of Science: Human Development/Elementary Education, Wheelock College
arobert@thecroftschool.org

Ashleigh joined Croft in 2022. Ashleigh loves being a member of the Croft Community because she has a passion for curriculum design, social justice, and meaningful project-based learning, which are valued at Croft. Ashleigh also believes the social-emotional curriculum is just as important as the academic curriculum. She values taking time to foster a strong classroom community and self-awareness among students.

Before coming to Croft Ashleigh taught 1st and 2nd grade for 9 years in a public school.

Outside of the classroom, Ashleigh enjoys spending time in nature, crafting, and exploring new places with her husband, daughter, and goldendoodle.

Founding 3rd Grade Teacher

B.A., Howard University
B.S. Howard University
M.A. Sposato Graduate School of Education
arobinson@thecroftschool.org

Ayanna joined Croft in 2023. Ayanna is excited to be a part of a school community similar to her own educational upbringing. She is enjoys being part of a project learning school. Ayanna is looking forward to creating curious minds and fostering a love of creativity, innovation, and problem solving.

Ayanna has taught high, middle, and elementary school. Before teaching, Ayanna worked in the arts (specializing in photography and graphic design) and during the summer, she teaches computer science, game design, and coding to kids.

In her free time, Ayanna enjoys crafting, traveling, critiquing new movies.

Associate Teacher

Bachelor of Arts,
Florida Atlantic University
cbaldwin@thecroftschool.org

Camden joined Croft in 2024. Camden is excited by Croft's student-focused approach to learning. They believe strong student-teacher relationships are paramount for student success.

Before joining Croft, Camden worked as a teacher's assistant for 2 years in Broward Public Schools in Florida with unique and neurodiverse learners. They also have previously taught 1st and 2nd grade student with autism in Boston Public Schools. Camden has a great belief in the ability for all students to be successful.

Outside of Croft, Camden enjoys working with clay and playing video games. They also participate in a weekly D&D campaign with their friends.

Operations Associate

cgonzalez@thecroftschool.org

Carolina is passionate about working with families and creating positive relationships with students and their teachers.

Carolina graduated from UMass Boston. She has Operations experience with several Boston Charter schools.

Carolina loves soccer, a good empanada, and taking Rocco (her doodle) to the Arboretum.

Pre-K Teacher

B.A. in International Affairs, The George Washington University
Ed.M Early Childhood Education, Boston University
cedwards@thecroftschool.org

Cat joined Croft in 2022. Cat is passionate about teaching in an environment that values every child as their whole, authentic self. She values Croft's commitment to social emotional learning and emergent curriculum. One of her favorite parts about teaching at Croft is the energy created through thoughtful, intentional learning in the classrooms and beyond!

After graduating from GW, Cat spent five years working in fundraising, first at a children's hospital in Washington, DC, then at Boston University. While working at BU, she completed a Master's program in Early Childhood Education. She began working at Croft as an Associate teacher in 1st grade, and now teaches Pre-K!

Outside of school, Cat spends her time reading, running, cooking, and spending time with her family and friends.

Art Teacher

B.A., Fordham University
AA, Ottawa School of Art, Ottawa, Canada
M.S. SUNY-Buffalo
ddybiec@thecroftschool.org

David joined Croft in 2022. The Croft culture as a whole encourages children to take bold and interesting steps when exploring the world around them. This makes the art teacher's job very easy. In his 25 years of teaching, Mr. David has never encountered a group of more intrepid, creative, and enthusiastic young artists. The school has created a supportive and encouraging environment where students are free to explore, ask questions, and take risks.

Mr. David's career as an art teacher began by accident over 20 years ago. Fresh out of art school, he found himself in Mexico City without a plan. A small, private school found and hired him as an oral English instructor, but very quickly decided that he was much more suited to develop and run the school's art program. A career was born. He went on to get a Masters Degree in Education. He's been teaching art ever since. He's taught all ages but finds the creative energy of young artists to be most engaging and rewarding.

In addition to painting, drawing, and taking photographs, Mr. David loves to explore. In his free time, he can usually be found with his husband Alberto bicycling, traveling, cooking, browsing in bookstores, going to the movies, and checking out exhibitions at galleries and museums.

Associate Preschool Teacher

B.A. Psychology,
Dean College
dedwards@thecroftschool.org

Destiny joined Croft in 2023. Destiny chooses to work at Croft because of the community in and outside of the classroom. She loves being able to create and maintain strong and positive connections with students, families and staff. Additionally, being able to be a part and witness students learn and grow into the best versions of themselves is the greatest reward for her as a teacher.

Destiny previously worked as the Program & Administrative Associate at OrigiNation Cultural Arts Center. Additionally, she has been a dance instructor at OrigiNation for over 10 years, teaching ages 2-14.

Destiny enjoys music, reading, dancing, laughing, photography and quality time with friends and family.

PE Teacher & 3rd Grade Associate Teacher

Bachelor of Arts,
The American University of Paris
dhickox@thecroftschool.org

Diana joined Croft in 2024. Diana began working with The Croft School as a coach at Viking Sports. She found a tight-knit community invested in a culture of mutual respect, deep care, and unbridled joy. Diana is very excited to work with the students, teachers, and families that set Croft apart.

Throughout her time in Paris, Diana led children’s workshops which fostered community with Syrian refugee families through English lessons, art therapy, music, and dance. Upon returning to Massachusetts, she taught high school French and coached soccer and multi-sports. She continues to teach swim lessons and loves to spend time in the water.

In her free time, Diana enjoys reading, walking the Emerald Necklace, and cooking dinner with her friends and family.

4th Grade Associate Teacher

B.A. Spanish and Latin American Studies at University of Stirling (Scotland)
Masters in Primary Education (PGDE) at University of West of Scotland
ephilpott@thecroftschool.org

Eilidh joined Croft in 2024. Croft’s commitment to child-centered learning and strong community makes Eilidh really excited to be on the team as a Grade 4 associate teacher.

After graduating from the University of Stirling with a degree in Spanish and Latin American Studies, Eilidh continued her studies and gained her teaching degree at the University of West of Scotland. Over the course of the next five years, she taught children in Scottish primary schools, and developed a deep understanding and passion for curriculum progression and design. In 2021 Eilidh and her husband moved to Boston where she then taught Kindergarten for a further two years.

In her spare time Eilidh likes to make memories with her family and friends. She enjoys exploring different parts of the city and traveling to new places too!

Associate Teacher

B.A. in Psychology, Rollins College
eheisler@thecroftschool.org

Elsa joined Croft in 2023. Elsa loves Croft because of the strong sense of community, the caring and supportive environment, and trusting relationships between staff, families, and students.

Before Croft, Elsa was a camp counselor for 6 years and, most recently, taught preschool in a daycare.

Outside of Croft, Elsa enjoys reading, traveling, and exploring her community in Jamaica Plain.

Preschool Teacher

M.S. in Education,
Bank Street College
ebautista@thecroftschool.org

Emily joined Croft in 2021. Emily believes in the power of play, social justice and socio-emotional learning. She loves that at Croft, children get to play in a safe and thoughtful learning environment and practice their social and academic skills authentically. She is committed in the school's anti-bias and anti-racism work and strives to incorporate this in their classroom.

Emily has over a decade of experience in early childhood education. Her passion for teaching started in the Philippines and has since led her to teaching roles in Dubai, New York City, and now Boston. Before joining Croft, she worked as a curriculum coordinator, guiding and mentoring early years educators in Manila. Then during the pandemic, she co-founded Kind Little Humans and Palaisipan, initiatives designed to empower caregivers to raise children who are emotionally intelligent, socially aware and justice informed.

Outside of work, Emily enjoys getting lost in new cities, exploring museum gift shops, eating snacks, practicing new songs on the ukulele, and taking pictures of beautiful things.

Spanish Teacher

gcalvorey@thecroftschool.org

Genoveva joined Croft in 2023. The Croft School aligned with her beliefs in education. She enjoys working with the students and staff.

Genoveva's professional background includes being a teacher, interpreter, and yoga teacher.

Genoveva's interests include gardening, painting, and birds.

Nurse

B.S., Simmons College
B.A. University of Iowa
hgreenlimb@thecroftschool.org

Holly joined Croft in 2023. Holly started working at The Croft School because she appreciated and respected the tight-knit and supportive community as a Croft parent. Being a part of the Croft organization allows her to make a significant positive impact on the students' health and well-being.

Holly has spent her nursing career at Tufts Medical Center and continues to work there. She started in pediatrics and currently works on an adult medical floor. Holly has also provided nursing services on a volunteer basis at Stony Brook School in Jamaica Plain.

Outside of Croft, Holly enjoys being active and enjoying the outdoors with her husband and their two sons, both students at Croft. She also frequently visits family and friends in her hometown Chicago.

Nurse

Bachelor of Science in Nursing,
Registered Nurse
jpetersen@thecroftschool.org

Jackie joined Croft in 2024. Jacquelyn is a parent of two children who have attended Croft the previous two years. Croft is full of wonderful administration, families, and kids, and harbors a loving and open environment.

Jacquelyn has been a Registered Nurse for 16 years, mostly working in emergency and trauma, with other experience doing international medical development work and primary care.

Jacquelyn enjoys adventuring with her husband and two kids, longs days at the beach, quality time with wonderful friends, and cooking with her family.

Associate Teacher

Bachelor of Science,
St. John Fisher University
jwyckoff@thecroftschool.org

Janie joined Croft in 2023. Janie works at Croft because she is passionate about the school's key attributes. It is clear that every student here has a love of learning which makes the community an incredibly joyful and enriching place.

Janie graduated college in 2022. Before coming to Croft, she worked towards her master's degree in Literacy from the University of Buffalo. She also nannied and worked as a substitute teacher.

Outside of Croft, Janie enjoys cooking, exploring different parts of Boston, and spending time with friends and family.

School Counselor

MSW, Simmons College,
Boston, MA
jelson@thecroftschool.org

Jenn joined Croft in 2022 because of Croft’s commitment to Social Justice and Inclusion.

Prior to working at Croft as a School Counselor, Jenn taught 3rd grade in Houston, TX (TFA 2009-2011), 2nd Grade in Brooklyn, NY and then worked as a clinician at The Home for Little Wanderers Early Childhood Center for Mental Health and The Manville School at Judge Baker Children’s Center. In addition, she has a small private practice.

Outside of Croft Jenn enjoys adventuring outdoors with their partner and 4 kids, as well as swimming, reading, and trying new restaurants around Boston!

Preschool Educator Associate

B.A. Psychology, The college of Wooster
M.A. Art and Design Education, Rhode Island School of Design
klawrence@thecroftschool.org

Kaitlyn joined Croft in 2024. Kaitlyn’s interest in education, art, and psychology sparked her enthusiasm for The Croft School’s unique model of teaching, particularly, its emphasis on cultivating curiosity in student learning and integrating social emotional learning.

Kaitlyn recently graduated with an M.A. in Art and Design Education from the Rhode Island School of Design and is excited to join The Croft School for the upcoming school year! She has previous childcare and art education experience with YMCAs, the deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum, and Mini Makerz through the Rhode Island School of Design.

Outside of Croft, Kaitlyn enjoys making art, writing and reading, exploring nature, visiting historic buildings and skating!

Associate Teacher

B.A., Dartmouth College
M.S., Butler University
M.A., Eastern Nazarene College
kbrooks@thecroftschool.org

Kathryn joined Croft in 2024. Kathryn is excited to be part of a school that was inspired by and built with an intentional vision of student-centered learning and family involvement.

Kathryn has been a teacher of grades 2-6 at various public and independent schools in California, Indiana, and Massachusetts. She has also been a Math Specialist and a Math Editor for a curriculum publisher.

In her free time, she likes to read and discuss books, do Pilates and yoga, knit and crochet, hike and bike, and cook!

Northeastern Co-Op

Currently pursuing B.A. Environmental Studies with a concentration in Environmental Ethics and Social Justice from Northeastern University
donahoe.k@northeastern.edu

Keira joined Croft in 2024. Keira appreciates the ideals that Croft represents, including the educational ethic of supporting and uplifiting students within their own personalities and capabilities to be the best humans they can. She admires the relationships Croft aspires to make with their students and families, facilitating an environment of trust, comfort, and excitement for learning.

Still studying at Northeastern University, Keira has always loved working with young students. Before coming to Croft, Keira worked an internship with the Emerald Necklace Conservancy, where she got to assist with all aspects of the organization, including their youth programs. This inspired her to mesh her passion for the environment with education, using her experience working in the San Francisco Botanical Gardens' summer camp to inspire new and enriching extended day programs.

Outside of Croft, Keira enjoys exploring new cities, hiking, nature, cooking, spending time with family and friends, and relaxing with reading and photography.

Kindergarten Teacher

MEd, Curriculum & Instruction, Arizona State University
MA, Social Justice & Human Rights, Arizona State University
BA, Peace & Conflict Studies, University of California, Berkeley
lchamberlain@thecroftschool.org

Lauren joined Croft in 2020. Lauren is passionate about empowering young children to become confident, caring, civically-engaged members of their communities, and was immediately drawn to Croft's commitment to social justice and project-based learning. She began teaching at Croft in 2020 and loves teaching and learning alongside students and families through play, exploration, and collaboration.

Lauren began her career as an educator in Phoenix, Arizona, where she taught kindergarten and first grade and served as a behavior intervention specialist for students in K-8th grade. After 6 years in the classroom, she moved across the country to Boston and began work in the education nonprofit sector. There she specialized in designing and implementing professional development programs to support educators in project based learning, civic education, and social emotional learning for students in elementary and middle school.

She lives in Roslindale with her husband and two sons and enjoys hiking and camping, meandering through bookstores, sing-alongs with her neighbors, and cooking with her family.

Assistant Preschool Teacher

Bachelor of Arts,
Northeastern University
lholt@thecroftschool.org

Leah joined Croft in 2024. Leah was inspired to join Croft because of its welcoming, close-knit community and high standard of excellence in education and inclusion. She is excited to continue to foster that legacy as a member of the Croft team.

Leah studied communications and graphic design, and held several positions in marketing and public relations before coming to Croft. As well as her time as a camp counselor in high school, working with a nonprofit teaching sustainability and environmental science to students in K-6th grade on the North Shore solidified her interests in becoming a full-time teacher.

In her free time, Leah enjoys visiting local museums and attending concerts and craft fairs all around Boston!

1st Grade Teacher

B.S. Elementary Education and Psychology,
Keene State College
lsander@thecroftschool.org

Lisa joined Croft in 2021. Lisa is a passionate educator who has cherished working as a founding first grade teacher at Croft. She appreciates the strong sense of community between the students, staff, and families at Croft, as well as the team's commitment to keeping education balanced.

Prior to teaching at Croft, Lisa has worked with children in various school and camp settings, most notably as a kindergarten and first grade classroom teacher in New Hampshire and Massachusetts.

In her free time, Lisa loves to run, ski, and kayak. She enjoys traveling with her husband, and balances life’s busy adventures by curling up with a good book and her cat, Mable.

Associate Teacher

B.S., University of Massachusetts Amherst (Mount Ida Campus)
msimpson@thecroftschool.org

Maia joined Croft in 2024. Maia is thrilled to continue her teaching journey at the Croft School! With a rich background in veterinary medicine, she has spent many years instructing technicians and doctors on veterinary skills. Her passion for working with children has led her back to early childhood education, where she feels incredibly fortunate to make a difference.

Her education experience includes nannying and working at a childcare center within a community health center, where she engaged with kids of all ages and abilities. Maia is committed to deepening her expertise in the field of education and plans to pursue an advanced degree.

Outside of her professional life, Maia enjoys spending time with her wife and their three-year-old son, George. Her hobbies include reading, creative writing, drawing, and gardening. Maia lives in Roslindale and is actively involved in her community, relishing the opportunity to contribute to her vibrant neighborhood!

1st Grade Teacher

B.A. Environmental Science, Lesley University
Master's in Effective Teaching (MET), Charles Sposato Graduate School of Education
mmurphy@thecroftschool.org

Marissa Joined Croft in 2022. Marissa chose Croft because of its community-focused culture, emphasis on social-emotional learning, and balanced education model -- which includes experiential learning as well as structured literacy and conceptual mathematics. She strongly believes that students need a holistic education experience in order to become problem-solving citizens in the future. Croft provides kids with opportunities to ask questions, to make and carry-out plans, to test theories, to think critically and playfully, to resolve conflict, to cooperate, to productively struggle with academic material, to apply concepts in the real world, to practice empathy, and to uplift the voices of others. Educators at Croft ensure that all kids are emotionally supported, all kids are explicitly taught new SEL skills, all kids are challenged academically, and all kids are free to express themselves authentically.

Before she came to Croft, Marissa worked in Animal Husbandry at the Marine Mammal Care Center in San Pedro, CA. She helped to rehabilitate Seals and Sea Lions who had been injured in the wild. She loved the pieces of veterinary science that she learned during her time at MMCC and eventually moved back to Massachusetts where she became a Science Specialist for First and Second Graders at Match Community Day, a charter school in Hyde Park, MA. Marissa found that her experience practicing science in the field, helped her to evoke the joy of science in her students.

Marissa is passionate about Ecology and Natural History. She spends most of her time hiking, swimming in fresh water and salt water, spotting animals and plants, reading about animals and plants, and telling people about animals and plants. She loves the OCEAN BIOME and the mammals living in the ocean, especially WHALES! Her time spent observing and appreciating nature helps her to remember the connection between personal health and wellness and the natural world.

Associate Teacher

Bachelor of Arts,
Wellesley College
mmcconville@thecroftschool.org

Mary joined Croft in 2024. Mary loves the mission of Croft and is excited to be at a student-centered school where learning is engaging, innovative, and fun! She loves that ant Croft, she has the opportunity to collaborate with other staff and be creative in her pedagogical practice.

Mary began working with children as a nanny and babysitter in high school, which she continues to do today. As a sophomore in college, she directed an academic enrichment camp in Cambridge. She also has worked as a lifeguard, Archery instructor, Ropes Course instructor, and Aftercamp director at a camp for the last two summers.

Outside of Croft, Mary enjoys long walks and runs, Pilates and yoga, reading, doing jigsaw puzzles, and trying out new restaurants!

Founding 4th Grade Teacher

B.A., Guilford College,
M.S.T. Pace University
msalisbury@thecroftschool.org

Matt joined Croft in 2023. Matt loves being part of the Croft community because it is a place where positive relationships can thrive, everyone has the opportunity to learn and grow in different ways, and there are many opportunities for learning in our community through fieldwork.

Matt has been working in education since joining Teach For America in 2005 as a New York City Corp Member where he taught kindergarten at Excellence Boys Charter School in Brooklyn, NY. Since then, he has taught and worked in school leadership in schools across the country. Most recently, he was an Assistant Principal at Brooke East Boston.

Matt enjoys spending time with his husband, David, and daughter Maya, as well as his nephews (and Croft students) Sachin and Ayan. He also enjoys spending time outdoors and reading.

Founding Pre-K Teacher

B.A. Fordham University
M.S.Ed. Bank Street College of Education
mburrowes@thecroftschool.org

Michelle joined Croft in 2020. Michelle works at Croft because she believes that every child has the right to an exciting, rigorous, and authentic education.

Michelle has worked with children in different capacities since 2006. Most recently, before she came to Croft, Michelle worked in Dubai, where she was a founding K1 teacher at the first American progressive school in the region.

Outside of teaching, Michelle enjoys reading her little books, watering and admiring her houseplants, and catching up on sleep.

Science Teacher

B.S, Boston University
M.Ed, Lesley University
mcallaway@thecroftschool.org

Michelle joined Croft in 2024. Michelle's core values are curiosity and compassion. She approaches learning as a continuous cycle of growth, exploration, and community. She is especially interested in incorporating technology into science instruction, and is also passionate about helping young learners develop digital citizenship. She shares the Croft's commitment to place-based education and learning.

Michelle grew up in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She moved to Massachusetts to study at Boston University, where she majored in Elementary Education and Special Education. After graduating, she worked in Newton as a paraprofessional, and completed her M.Ed. in Mathematics Education from Lesley University. For the past seven years, she has been teaching science in the Boston Public Schools.

In her spare time, Michelle enjoys traveling with her family, exploring her local library, and walking in the park. As a city-dweller without a car, her most recent adventure has been exploring the many interesting stops on the MBTA commuter rail.

1st Grade Associate Teacher

mrockett@thecroftschool.org

Molly joined Croft in 2024. Molly loves the unique model of teaching and the commitment to cultivating curiosity and passion in the students.

Prior to Croft, Molly worked for Peer Health Exchange teaching Health education to students at Boston Public Schools. Prior to that, Molly was an AmeriCorps member for City Year, working in an elementary school in Denver, Colorado.

Molly enjoys playing sports, reading, and listening true crime podcasts when she can find the time with raising a very active 10 month old baby girl.

2nd Grade Associate Teacher

B.S. Psychology,
Northeastern University
ngarriga-cerni.n@thecroftschool.org

Nadia joined Croft in 2021. Nadia has had a passion for working with children for as long as she can remember. She began working at Croft during her Co-Op through Northeastern University in 2021, and has stayed connected with the Croft community ever since.

Aside from working at Croft, Nadia completed another Co-Op at Boston Medical Center doing psychiatry research on child and adolescent ADHD and related conditions. She continues to be involved with this research!

Nadia enjoys practicing her photography skills, traveling, and spending time at home on St. Croix in the Virgin Islands.

3rd Grade Teacher

B.A and M.Ed.,
University of Massachusetts Boston
ncameau@thecroftschool.org

Nicole joined Croft in 2024. Nicole chose Croft due to the immediate and profound sense of community she felt from the outset. The school's values, robust culture, strong community ties, and exceptional staff were pivotal factors in her decision. Additionally, she sought a preschool for her son that offered small class sizes and teachers dedicated to encouraging and nurturing his development.

Before joining Croft, Nicole spent two years at a local charter school serving as a math specialist for 5th and 6th grades. Prior to that, she dedicated 15 years to teaching third and fourth grades in Newton.

Outside of Croft, Nicole enjoys reading, listening to music, and spending time with her family. She also enjoys architecture and recreating homes on the Sims 4.

Pre-K Associate Teacher

Bachelor of Arts,
Connecticut College
pbrauser@thecroftschool.org

Paige joined Croft in 2024. Having had the privilege of attending an independent school for middle and high school, Paige appreciates a small, tight-knit community and a Croft teacher’s ability to create their own unique curriculum rather than follow state mandated lesson plans.

Paige worked as a special education teaching assistant for the past 3 years. Having a learning disability herself, she enjoys working with neurodivergent learners. Paige is excited to begin her master’s degree in special education next spring. 

 Paige enjoys seeing movies at Coolidge Corner theater, rZumba, spending time with her younger brother, Jared, attending New York Ranger hockey games, and reading.

2nd Grade Teacher

B.A., Amherst College
MSEd, CUNY Hunter College
rgonzalez@thecroftschool.org

Rosemary joined Croft in 2022. As one of the founding second grade teachers, Rosemary has enjoyed co-creating a project-based learning curriculum that explores complex topics and invites student autonomy and creativity. She also values the commitment the school has towards creating an anti-racist and inclusive community.

Before Croft, Rosemary taught in pre K, first, and second grade classrooms.

In her spare time, Rosemary enjoys reading, running outdoors, watching sitcoms, doing the NYT crossword puzzle, and being in good company.

Kindergarten Teacher

B.A., Boston College
M.Ed., Boston University
sphipps-freeland@thecroftschool.org

Sade joined Croft in 2024. She is excited to join the Croft community to inspire curious minds through project-based learning.

Sade began her career in education when she joined Teach for America in 2016. She taught first grade at a Boston Public School for two years and more recently worked at Brooke Charter Schools for the past 5 years. There she supported students in kindergarten through eighth grade as an interventionist and student support teacher. She also taught first grade in her earlier years at Brooke Charter Schools. Sade received her bachelor's degree at Boston College from the Lynch School of Education and completed her M.Ed at Boston University in Curriculum and Teaching. Outside of work, Sade enjoys traveling and spending time with her husband and son.

Sade enjoys traveling and spending time with her husband and son.

4th Grade Associate Teacher

Bachelor of Science in Education,
Columbus State University
skepley@thecroftschool.org

Samantha joined Croft in 2022. Samantha loves the close relationships she has built with her coworkers, students, and families. The Croft School is full of joy and wonder, and Samantha is excited to witness it everyday!

Samantha began working with youth when she was taught theatre at a summer camp from high school through college. After receiving her Bachelor's degree in Theatre Education, she then taught theatre across different age groups at several schools in her hometown of Columbus, GA. Samantha also worked briefly in the nonprofit sector, where she raised funds and provided access to theatre and the arts to youth in her community. In 2022, Samantha decided to further her education and is in her final year at Emerson College, and she will have a MFA in Theatre Education & Applied Theatre.

Samantha loves to perform and watch performances, dance, go on nature walks, travel the world, and do embroidery!

Kindergarten Associate Teacher

B.A Elementary Education in Western Governors University
srivera@thecroftschool.org

Sarah joined Croft in 2022. Sarah enjoys working with children, she used to work at the Museum of Discovery and Science in Florida. She loved how students were able to learn the best way for them. Sarah loves the way Croft includes Montessori/Play-based learning in the students day-to-day.

Sarah was a lead pre-school teacher in North Carolina and has been in a Kindergarten classroom for the past 5 years.

Sarah loves creating art, traveling, and spending time with her family and cat Lilo.

Reading Specialist

Master of Arts,
University of Massachusetts Boston
sballin@thecroftschool.org

Serena joined Croft in 2024. Serena joined The Croft School out of a deep commitment to providing inclusive and effective education. She was drawn to The Croft School because it offers her the chance to make a meaningful impact on students’ lives in a supportive and innovative environment, where she can truly contribute to their growth and success.

Serena is a dedicated and experienced educator with licensure in Massachusetts, specializing in Elementary Education, Special Education, and English as a Second Language, complemented by an Orton-Gillingham Certification. She holds a BA in Communication with a minor in International Studies from the University of Tampa and an MA in Elementary Education from the University of Massachusetts Boston, where she completed the prestigious Boston Teacher Residency Program. Her professional journey includes roles as a Second Grade Teacher, ESL Teacher, Reading Interventionist, and Boston Teacher Residency Mentor within the Boston Public Schools system.

In her personal time, Serena enjoys spending time with her family, which includes her husband, two daughters, and their dog Harry. She also has a passion for reading and interior design.

Preschool Teacher

B.S. in Early Childhood Education, Baker College
M. Ed. in Early Childhood Education (PreK-2nd), Cambridge College
tfoster@thecroftschool.org

Taniquea joined Croft in 2020. Taniquea transitioned from the classroom to managing childcare centers in the City of Boston for five years. In 2020 (prior to COVID), Taniquea had the opportunity to fill in for a teacher that was on leave. During that time, a spark was ignited and she knew that her place was in the classroom. Croft’s philosophy of “Rigor and Spark” aligns with Taniquea’s philosophy of teaching. Taniquea’s belief for early learning is to enrich young minds through play and mindful experiences. She also believes that creating and maintaining an environment where children can grow and thrive while exploring the world around them is essential to soar academically.

Taniquea began her career in early childhood education over 20 years ago. Before coming to Croft Taniquea worked at Head Start and Early Head Starts as an Preschool/PreK Teacher and Coordinator in Michigan, Colorado, Oregon, and Massachusetts.

Taniquea is married to her high school sweetheart, and they are proud parents of two daughters. She also enjoys spending time with her family, reading books, going on long walks through the Arboretum, and watching documenters.

Pre-K Assistant Teacher

B.A., Education Studies, Wellesley College
vmanning@thecroftschool.org

Vivien joined Croft in 2024. They are drawn to the Croft School's collaborative community and love of learning. Vivien loves to watch children become excited about learning and discover their passions.

Vivien has been passionate about education since their first summer volunteering at a Head Start preschool while they were in high school. After getting their degree in Education Studies at Wellesley College, they worked as a Teaching Fellow at the Learning Project in 3rd and 5th grade. Most recently, Vivien worked with a nonprofit to do health education in Boston Public Schools.

Vivien loves to attempt new baking recipes, read mysteries, knit, and play card games.