Jamaica Plain Team

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!

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.

Northeastern Co-Op

In Progress: B.A. in English and Communications, Northeastern University

Christina joined Croft in 2025. Christina loves working with kids and being creative. She was especially drawn to Croft’s emphasis on experiential learning, as it matched the way she loves to teach and connect with students. At Croft, Christina brings her creativity and energy to the classroom every day, helping create meaningful, hands-on learning experiences that inspire curiosity and confidence. She also values being part of a community that encourages growth, collaboration, and a love of learning. Working at Croft allows Christina to make a lasting impact by helping students discover their passions, think critically, and express themselves in new and exciting ways.

At her high school, Christina had the opportunity to help teach an art class for students with special needs, which sparked her passion for working with children and creating meaningful learning experiences. She is currently a student at Northeastern University, where she is also an active member of her sorority, building leadership skills and a strong sense of community. Before joining Croft, she assisted at Farm Gallery & Design Space, helping organize exhibitions, handling artwork, and writing artist press releases. These experiences have taught Christina to be creative, adaptable, and organized.

Christina is always looking for ways to stay creative and active. She loves to travel and even spent a semester studying abroad in London, where she enjoyed exploring new places. She’s happiest when working on something creative, whether it’s writing, drawing, or diving into new projects. When she’s not being creative, you’ll probably find her at a SoulCycle class or relaxing at a coffee shop.

Associate Teacher

B.A., Hellenic College
cdogias@thecroftschool.org

Christina joined Croft in 2025. Christina is excited to work at Croft because of the wonderful environment and community that is fostered there. With smaller class sizes, a familial sense of unity is created, and a new love for learning is able to be unlocked! Christina is thrilled to be a new part of the Croft family.

Christina graduated from college in 2024 and spent a year being a substitute teacher in Northern Virginia. Prior to graduating college, she worked as a camp director, camp counselor, and tutor, for multiple organizations. She loves finding new ways to get creative, whether it’s academically or for extra-curriculars, she loves to make learning fun!

Outside of Croft, Christina loves to go for walks and runs, play the guitar, and spend time with loved ones.

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 and Extended Day Coordinator

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.

Associate Teacher

B.A., Psychology, Clark University
evandyk@thecroftschool.org

Ella joined Croft in 2025. Ella was initially drawn to The Croft because their community oriented and inclusive approach aligned with her values. She is looking forward to creating meaningful and engaging learning experiences that support the children in finding their spark.

After graduating with a bachelors degree in Psychology from Clark University, Ella worked as a Lead Teacher at Head Start in Worcester, MA. They found great joy in forming bonds with their students and planning curriculum that put the children’s interest and curiosity first. Ella is looking forward to bringing this same energy, creativity, and compassion to the Croft community.

Outside of Croft, Ella enjoys spending time with their partner and two cats, exploring nature/cooking meals with friends, and listening to music!

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.

Secondary Schools Pathways Advisor

B.A. Oberlin College
M.Ed. University of Massachusetts at Boston
fkazar@thecroftschool.org

Felicia joined Croft in 2025. Felicia has been a proud member of the remarkable Croft parent community since 2021. Since then she has valued Croft’s student-centered approach, welcoming culture, and the dedication and creativity of Croft’s teachers.

To the Secondary Schools Pathways Advisor role, Felicia brings 20 years of education leadership experience in greater Boston’s public and independent schools. In her roles as a middle school science teacher at both the Shady Hill and the McCormack Middle Schools, she advised students as they made high school decisions. Most recently, Felicia served as the Assistant Director of Science Teaching and Learning with the Boston Teacher Residency.

Outside of Croft, Felicia enjoys long walks in nature, audiobooks, cooking, and spending time with her family.

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.

Associate Teacher

B.A. Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Connecticut
gschatz@thecroftschool.org

Gwen joined Croft in 2025. What drew Gwen to Croft was the community of passionate learners. She feels the way that Croft operates enables every student to thrive and grow!

Gwen is currently working towards her Masters degree at Boston University for Early Childhood Education where she student taught in JP. Before coming to Croft, Gwen has always enjoyed working with children at various school settings, summer camps, and nannying.

In her free time, Gwen enjoys spending time with family and friends, exploring Boston, and traveling!

Associate Teacher

M.Ed., Merrimack College
B.A., Macalester College
htrvilino@thecroftschool.org

Hannah joined Croft in 2025. Hannah is moved by The Croft School's intentional design and loves the school's commitment to innovative pedagogies, experiential and outdoor learning, anti-racist curriculum, and project-centered classrooms.

Hannah previously taught undergraduate Social Justice courses at Merrimack College; worked with high schoolers at EXPLO at Yale and with Roots & Wings' Teen Speak Out program; and worked with elementary and middle school students at numerous summer camps. She also has worked on political campaigns, facilitated intentional residential communities, and helps run a civic art and media collective.

In her free time, Hannah loves going dancing, seeing live music, making jewelry, spending time with friends and family, cooking, traveling, and working on creative projects.

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.

Northeastern Co-Op

Candidate for B.S. in Business Analytics and Mathematics with a Minor in International Relations and Data Science, Northeastern University

Jasmine joined Croft in 2025. Croft has a great sense of community and a caring and nurturing environment for all.

Jasmine has been involved in many clubs at Northeastern and has worked as volunteer judge for the Orange County Debate League.

Jasmine enjoys playing and watching basketball, going on walks and going to the gym.

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!

Art Teacher

B.A., University of Massachusetts Amherst.
Ed.M., Harvard University
jhunter@thecroftschool.org

Josy joined Croft in 2025. She was drawn to Croft because of its strong sense of community and innovative approach to education. As an arts educator, Josy values explorative play, creative risk-taking, and student-led learning in the art room. She is excited to work at a school that supports and encourages those goals in meaningful and joyful ways.

Before coming to Croft, Josy worked as a museum educator on Cape Cod and in Boston, engaging with learners from preschool through college. Her experiences include leading art history lectures, guided tours, field trips, and hands-on art-making workshops. While at Harvard University, Josy studied arts and learning through the lens of Project Zero’s Art|Play initiative, helped launch a public art commission and community art show, and completed a student teaching placement at the Edison School in Boston Public Schools.

Outside of school, Josy enjoys spending time outdoors hiking, kayaking, and exploring new places. She loves to travel, especially on road trips or backpacking adventures. When she’s home, she enjoys cooking and hosting dinners or movie nights with friends, and spending time with her cat, Oliver.

Associate Teacher

B.A. Mount Holyoke College
jlarose@thecroftschooll.org

Journey joined Croft in 2025. Journey is excited to join this small, tight knit community! She was drawn to Croft because of their child centered approach and commitment to community building.

Before coming to Croft Journey pursued her BA at Mount Holyoke College where she majored in Early Education and minored in Art History. She also worked as an infant/ toddler teacher at a local daycare.

Outside of Croft Journey enjoys crafting, running, cooking, and spending quality time with her friends.

Grade 5 Math Teacher & Grade 5 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!

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!

Northeastern Co-Op

In Progress: B.S. in Behavioral Neuroscience and Philosophy, Northeastern University

Lexie joined Croft in 2024.

Lexie chose to work at Croft because of her belief in the transformative power of education. She recognizes the profound responsibility educators have in shaping young people, understanding that this impact can either uplift and empower or have the opposite effect. She values the opportunity to connect learning with personal experience, appreciating the privilege of guiding students toward growth and self-discovery.

Lexie is a fourth-year student at Northeastern University. Before joining Croft, she completed a co-op in a neurobiology lab, contributing to research on neuronal diversity during development. This fall, she participated in a service-learning course called Philosophy for Children, where she facilitated philosophical discussions with young students. Additionally, she gained experience working with children through a summer program at a Waldorf school, which deepened her understanding of child development.

Lexie enjoys baking in her free time. She loves experimenting with new recipes and sharing her creations with friends and family. Baking serves as a creative outlet and a way to bring joy to others.

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.

Grade 5 Lead Teacher

B.A Political Science and Economics, Brandeis University
M.A Teaching, Simmons College
Ed.M School Leadership, Harvard Graduate School of Education
mshuman@thecroftschool.org

Matt joined Croft in 2025. He believes that rigor, curiosity, relationships, diverse perspectives, engagement, and balance are the lodestars of all effective schools. He loves being at Croft because it is the rare school that both articulates a compelling vision for these principles and powerfully embodies them in practice.

After graduating from Brandeis University with a concentration in political science and economics, Matt worked as a union organizer for Boston's hotel workers' union. Before joining Croft, Matt taught middle school history in Hyde Park, received a masters in school leadership from Harvard's Graduate School of Education, and served as an instructional coach in both charter and district settings.

When not teaching, Matt enjoys running, reading, visiting Boston's art museums, hiking, and taking in the cappuccinos and decor of Boston's many wonderful cafes. In addition to the above, Matt is passionate about building community, which he does by being active in his neighborhood association and operating a free community movie theater in his garage. His greatest joy though is going for a walk in the Arboretum with his wife, Amy, and son, Caleb.

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.

Music Teacher

B.A. Bennington College
mlis@thecroftschool.org

Milo joined Croft in 2025. Milo is incredibly excited to join the Croft family in Fall of 2025. As an individual who is passionate about early childhood education, they are drawn to the child-centered, explorative environment Croft provides it's students. They are overjoyed to be providing music classes to the pre-school classrooms and to support students in exploring music and artistic identity.

In addition to being on the Croft's staff, Milo is a Programmatic Music Assistant at Roman Music Therapy Services. In this position, Milo has been trained to lead promotive, low-clinical music therapy groups. They primarily do school-based sessions, in Pre-K and Kindergarten classrooms. These classrooms are typically integrated groups or ILP groups. Milo also works professionally as mezzo-soprano and chorister in the Boston area. They are apart of the Tanglewood Festival Chorus with the Boston Symphony Orchestra, a CitySing member for the Handel + Haydn Society, and sings at various churches in Eastern Boston. This upcoming season, they are excited to be joining Old South Church in Copley Square for their Thursday Night Music Ministry.

Outside of Croft, you can find Milo hanging out with their cats, composing, walking in the Forest Hills Cemetery, cooking soup, gardening, making jewelry, and creating puppets out of recycled materials.

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.

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.

Associate Teacher

B.A, Lesley University
njackson@thecroftschool.org

Nydiaha joined Croft in 2025. As someone who’s passionate about the arts and creativity, Nydiaha was drawn to The Croft School because of its joyful, student-centered approach to learning and its commitment to inclusivity and community. She loves that Croft encourages both students and teachers to grow through hands-on projects, meaningful relationships, and a balance of structure and play. For her, it’s the kind of place where creativity thrives and everyone’s voice is valued.

Before joining Croft, Nydiaha worked in a variety of roles supporting children both in and out of the classroom. From tutoring in reading and math to leading group activities in afterschool and summer camp settings, she gained experience working with students from diverse backgrounds. Her work has always focused on building trust, keeping kids engaged, and helping them grow in all areas of their lives.

Outside of school, she enjoys cooking, painting, writing, reading (especially mysteries and sci-fi), playing guitar, hiking, and going to art festivals and live music events. She’s always thinking about fun ways to bring those passions into the classroom and share the joy of art and culture with her students.

Grade 2 Lead Teacher

B.A Sociology and English, Bates College
M.A Curriculum and Instruction, Boston University
qsnellings@thecroftschool.org

Quincy joined Croft in 2025. Quincy is excited to join the Croft community because of its commitment to project-based, purposeful teaching and learning. She is dedicated to building a strong classroom culture where student exploration and voice are at the center.

Before joining the second-grade team at The Croft School, Quincy taught for ten years in a variety of settings. She earned a dual degree in English Literature and Sociology from Bates College and then taught English in Brazil as a Fulbright Fellow. She later taught third and fourth grade through Teach for America in Lawrence, Massachusetts, while earning her master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction at Boston University. For the past six years, she taught third grade at KIPP NYC, where she also served as a curriculum developer and content coach.

When she isn’t in the classroom, Quincy enjoys distance running, reading fiction, and spending time with her husband, Peter, and their son, Wesley.

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.

Educator Associate

B.A. in Environmental Chemistry, Middlebury College
skotin@thecroftschool.org

Sarah joined Croft in 2025. Sarah is excited to come to Croft because she remembers the importance of project based learning and student autonomy in her own academic journey and loves the emphasis that The Croft School places on these concepts. She also appreciates the school’s focus on inclusion and community.

Sarah was a first grade summer camp counselor for four years during college. After graduating, Sarah worked for five years as a research assistant/specialist in the cardiology department at Boston Children’s Hospital. While she finds medicine interesting and loved her time there, she always felt drawn towards a job where working with children and watching them develop was the main focus. She is very excited to join The Croft school!

Outside of Croft, Sarah loves to attend concerts, watch movies/TV with her friends, root for the Red Sox, enjoy a beach-read, and travel anywhere and everywhere.

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.

Northeastern Co-Op

In Progress: B.S. in Psychology, Northeastern University

Signe joined Croft in 2025. Signe chose to work at Croft because of her belief in the importance of nurturing the whole child through both academic and emotional development. She was drawn to Croft’s joyful, inclusive environment and its emphasis on fostering curiosity, compassion, and confidence in young learners. She values the opportunity to support students’ growth while applying her knowledge of psychology in a real-world educational setting.

Signe is a psychology major at Northeastern University, where she has centered her studies on abnormal psychology, emotional development, and the integration of mindfulness practices into mental health care. Before joining Croft, she worked as both a yoga studio manager and a legal assistant, building strong organizational and interpersonal skills. Her professional background also includes years of experience as a nanny, where she supported children’s development through intentional, play-based care and nurturing relationships.

Signe enjoys writing poetry, practicing yoga, and spending time in nature. She is passionate about wellness, creativity, and fostering meaningful connections within her community.

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.