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Meet the 14Y Early Childhood Team

Home » Meet the 14Y Early Childhood Team

MEET THE 14Y EARLY CHILDHOOD TEAM

14Y Early Childood Administration

Liz Lowy has been the Early Childhood Director at 14Y since 2024. She brings an expansive background of over 20 years in early childhood education and a history of working in a variety of schools, including Montessori and play-based environments. Liz has a dual Master’s in Early Childhood Education and Special Education from the Steinhardt School at New York University, her NYS Professional Teacher license, and a Montessori Certification. Liz is passionate about partnering with young families to ensure a rich and nurturing first school experience.

Faith Wellington is thrilled to begin her first year at 14Y! Faith has a Master’s in Early Childhood Education from Hunter College and her New York State Teacher Certification. Faith most recently served as the Director at a YMCA in Manhattan and before that worked as a Head Teacher at Educational Alliance’s Reggio-Emilia early childhood program at the Manny Cantor Center. As the Associate Director of Preschool, Faith is excited to support all our teachers, students, and families.

Julia Massey is the Associate Director of Operations for the 14Y Early Childhood department, having first joined the 14Y Early Childhood team in 2010. Julia grew up in NYC and earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Drama from New York University. Previously, Julia worked in operations and administration in nonprofits and television at Families First Brooklyn, Henry Street Settlement, Viacom/MTV Networks, and Focus Networks. She loves the fun and collaborative environment at the 14Y and is extremely proud to support the staff and families in our community.

Jill Shely is the Associate Director of Infant and Toddler Programs for 14Y’s Early Childhood department and has been part of the 14Y community for 20 years. Before coming to 14Y, Jill worked with children’s educational theater programs that performed in schools across the country, and as a teaching artist in NYC public schools. She has also worked with Fortune 500 companies to bring creativity and collaboration to the workplace. As a former 14Y parent and longstanding member of our team, Jill deeply values the opportunity to support our students and their families throughout their time in our Early Childhood programs.

Hazal Kelleci, our Art Specialist Teacher and Artistic Director since 2024, holds a MA in Art Education from Columbia University and her New York State teaching certification. She previously worked in a public school using a variety of curriculum to support children’s growth in artistic expression. Hazal’s expertise with found objects and the Reggio Emilia approach is highlighted in the children’s everyday experiences at 14Y Preschool.

4s Team

Jessica Glogover is thrilled to join the 14Y Preschool team, having been part of the 14Y community for most of her life, including working at New County Day Camp as a Division Leader for the youngest 4- and 5-year-old campers for the past eight summers. Jessica holds a BA in Psychology from UMass Amherst. She is deeply committed to working with young children and creating engaging environments that inspire their natural curiosity and growth.

Marion Smith is a beloved fixture at 14Y Preschool, having worked with our program and countless children for over thirty years. She has served in various roles, including preschool teacher and head camp counselor, in addition to teaching in our Early Drop Off and Extended Care Programs. Marion is passionate about providing the best care for children and loves all kinds of teddy bears.

Hope Talbot is so excited to be part of the 14Y Preschool team, having previously worked at New Town Day Camp and as a Kindergarten teacher on the Upper West Side. She holds a BA from Columbia University and is beginning her Master’s program in Library Science Education. With a passion for books, research, and young children, Hope looks forward to introducing her students to new ways of learning.

3s Team

Jacqueline Vaida has been teaching at 14Y Preschool since 2017, with over 15 years of experience in the field of early childhood education. She holds a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Hunter College, in addition to a New York State Teaching Certification. Embracing a holistic view of child development, Jacqueline structures her classroom learning space through a child-led, play-based, process-oriented approach. She is so excited to co-create a joy-filled learning community together with you and your child this year with our Heart Room team!

Leigh Cooper is a graduate of Fairleigh Dickinson University and has worked in the 14Y Early Childhood Department as both a Prelude Teacher and Preschool Teacher since 2020. Leigh also supports a variety of Infant and Toddler classes throughout the school year and at New Town Day Camp. Leigh fondly remembers her own time as a 14Y parent and now deeply values being a part of our teaching community. She is excited to join the 3’s classroom and to support the learning and development of your children this year!

Miriam Lubin is a graduate of Bard College with a concentration in Jewish studies. She is thrilled to join 14Y Preschool after working as a member of the New Country Day Camp supervisory staff this past summer, overseeing Jewish curriculum and engagement for all NCDC campers ages 4-13. Miriam has also previously worked in Reggio Emilia schools and outdoor education programs. She can’t wait to get started in the 3s classroom at 14Y Preschool!

2s Team

Amber Contreras is a graduate of Mercy University with a passion for creating supportive, engaging learning environments where her students can grow with confidence and curiosity. She is beyond excited to join the 14Y Preschool team, working with our youngest students in the 2s program, and can’t wait to dive into our rooftop horticulture program!

Cristina Tejada has been an Assistant Teacher at 14Y Preschool since 2013 and is a cherished member of our community. She holds a Bachelor of Arts from Touro College, where she majored in Early Childhood Sciences with an Early Childhood Psychology Minor. Cristina has also served as our Enrichment Spanish teacher for five years and is passionate about sharing the Spanish language with children in a fun, immersive way.

Emily Yarmey is a dedicated and compassionate early childhood educator, having previously worked as an assistant teacher at Preschool of the Arts before joining the 14Y team in 2025. She is thrilled to be back for her second year working with the 2s at 14Y Preschool and can’t wait to meet her new students!

Floating Teacher

Danielle Richard is delighted to join 14Y Preschool as our floating teacher, working with all students and classrooms. Prior to joining our team, Danielle taught in various Hebrew School Programs, including at the Brooklyn Heights Synagogue. She is a graduate of the University of Oregon with a BA in English.