South End Team

Head of School

B.S. Boston College (Geology & Environmental Science)
M.Ed. Arizona State (Secondary Education)
M.Ed. Reach Institute (Instructional Leadership)
clopez@thecroftschool.org

Cristina joined Croft in 2022. Cristina is passionate about building a neighborhood school that provides a joyful learning environment for students and a supportive community for parents- one where students can authentically learn from and actively take part in the neighborhood around them.

She began her career over 15 years ago teaching what she studied at Boston College and loves most: earth science. She enjoyed crafting lessons that helped students explore the natural world and prompt problem solving. Throughout her time in the classroom, she sought training and experience in teacher coaching, building school systems and culture, and leading teams. She was a school leader at public charter schools in San Jose, California and Boston, MA, where she supported the teams to achieve ambitious goals around school culture and achievement.

Outside of Croft, Cristina can be found leading her husband and three children on local and far-off adventures.

Assistant Head of School

B.A., Boston College
M.Ed., Boston College
cfisher@thecroftschool.org

Caroline joined Croft in 2024.

Caroline is excited to be a part of a collaborative and growing school community, including staff, students and families. Croft has the perfect balance of academic focus, student-centeredness, and social-emotional learning. She is enthusiastic to be a part of a school that values outdoor play and project-based learning.

After being a classroom teacher for nine years in New York City, Caroline became a school leader, supporting teachers with their instruction across a variety of grade levels and content for the past three years.

Caroline enjoys playing soccer, riding the peloton, watching sporting events and spending time with friends and family, especially her many nieces and nephews.

Director of Operations

Master of Education,
University of New Hampshire
vmartel@thecroftschool.org

Victoria joined Croft in 2023. What Victoria loves most about Croft is the community! Whether it's during arrival, a community meeting, or a more formal school event, she loves seeing everyone come together with full dedication and enthusiasm!

Before joining Croft, Victoria was the Director of Education at the Watertown Boys and Girls Club. Prior to that, she spent six years working in both a public school in New Hampshire and a private school in Boston. Additionally, she worked for over ten years at Camp Takodah, the camp where she grew up!

Outside of Croft, Victoria love spending time with friends and family. She also enjoys cooking, reading, and planning her next vacation!

Art and Associate Teacher

M.Ed., University of Massachusetts Boston
J.D., University of Notre Dame Law School
B.A., San Francisco State University, English Literature
amacdougall@thecroftschool.org

Amy joined Croft in 2025. Amy is excited to join Croft as an art teacher and collaborate with the school community to inspire creativity and artistic expression. She is drawn to Croft’s commitment to rigor and spark, and to the joyful, student-centered approach that makes children love coming to school each day. Amy is also eager to see how the school continues to grow and evolve in the coming years and looks forward to engaging with the entire Croft team and all of the Croft families as she makes a home for herself at the school.

Amy has been teaching for over 15 years in a variety of educational settings, with a focus on art and creativity. Most recently, she was a Lead Art Instructor at Minni Studio in Boston, where she taught art to young children. She has also taught art and theater at United South End Settlements, worked as a preschool teacher at The Corner Co-Op Preschool, and as an assistant teacher at The Learning Project. In addition, she helped co-found a homeschooling cooperative forest school in the Blue Hills and an English-language preschool in Frankfurt, Germany. Earlier in her career, Amy practiced corporate law at Sullivan & Worcester LLP.

Amy lives in the Back Bay with her husband, their three children, and their two Bedlington Terriers. She enjoys reading, being creative, traveling, attending theater productions and spending time outdoors.

Associate Teacher

M.Ed Early Childhood Education Lesley University, Cambridge,
MA / BA Sociology, Stella Maris University, India / Diplomat Of The Montessori Method Of Education, Sri Lanka
adavid@thecroftschool.org

Anne joined Croft in 2025. Anne finds it inspiring to join a community like Croft, where there is a deep commitment to both diversity and community connection. The school's forward thinking approach to education, particularly its dedication to progressive inclusive and experiential learning, makes it an ideal environment in which to grow and thrive as an educator!

She brings many years of experience as an educator, with a strong focus on Early Childhood Education. Her background includes working in diverse school settings that follow developmental, play-based, experiential, and Montessori approaches. This has shaped her child-centered teaching philosophy rooted in curiosity, exploration, and individualized learning.

Outside of school, she enjoys seeking fun adventures with family and friends, whether it’s exploring off-the-beaten-path restaurants or discovering new places together. She also finds joy in quiet moments spent reading and staying connected with loved ones.

Preschool Teacher

btucker@thecroftschool.org

Bailey joined Croft in 2023. She joined Croft South End because of Croft's commitment to emergent curriculum and the development of the student as a whole.

After graduating in 2015 with a degree in Sociology, Bailey moved to China where she worked with students from preschool age to second grade. After spending more than a year in China, Bailey moved to South Korea where she worked with students from preschool age to eighth grade. Bailey returned to the United States in 2020 and began working at early childhood centers around Boston.

In her free time, Bailey enjoys reading, traveling and trying out new recipes!

Kindergarten Associate Teacher

Bachelor of Science,
St. Lawrence University
bchanatry@thecroftschool.org

Betsy joined Croft in 2024. Croft is a great fit for Betsy due to its tight-knit community. Betsy grew up in a small town and went to a small university, therefore is excited to work at a school where she is able to build strong relationships with all of the students and staff!

Before coming to Croft, Betsy worked as a lead preschool teacher, teaching assistant in a special education summer program, and dance teacher!

Outside of Croft, Betsy is very passionate about music! She is the vocalist in a local band and loves to teach dance at her old studio when visiting her hometown.

Learning Specialist

B.S., Howard University
M.Ed., American University
broberts@thecroftschool.org

Britney joined the Croft team in 2025 because the school’s mission aligns deeply with her educational philosophy. She is particularly drawn to Croft’s commitment to meeting the needs of every child in an individualized manner, recognizing that each student learns differently and deserves tailored support. Additionally, Croft’s emphasis on fostering independence within a warm and nurturing environment resonates strongly with Britney’s belief in creating a safe, supportive space where children can thrive both academically and personally. The school’s values and approach make it an ideal setting for Britney to contribute meaningfully while continuing to grow as a Learning Specialist

Before joining Croft, Britney began her teaching career ten years ago as a robotics teacher, where she cultivated a passion for innovation and hands-on learning. Over the years, she has taught in a variety of educational settings throughout Washington, D.C., gaining experience with students across a wide range of cognitive profiles. Her diverse teaching background allowed her to develop an inclusive instructional approach, supporting learners with different academic and developmental needs. In addition to her classroom responsibilities, Britney expanded her leadership capacity by serving as the Director of Outside Learning, overseeing programs such as before-school and summer enrichment initiatives. These roles strengthened her skills in program development, staff coordination, and student engagement beyond the traditional classroom environment.

Outside of Croft, Britney has a deep love for animals and enjoys spending time caring for them. She is also passionate about travel, seeking opportunities to explore new cultures and broaden her global perspective. Whether visiting historical landmarks or immersing herself in local traditions, she values the personal growth and insight that come from experiencing diverse communities around the world.

Science Teacher and Associate Teacher

B.S., Northeastern University, Environmental and Sustainability Sciences
M.S., Northeastern University, Environmental Science and Policy
chayden@thecroftschool.org

Catherine joined Croft in 2025. Catherine is thrilled to share her love of science with her students! She was drawn to Croft for its dedication to hands-on, student-centered learning and is excited to be a part of this growing community.

Prior to joining Croft, Catherine worked in environmental education at Northeastern University Marine Science Center and at the EcoTarium as a camp counselor, where she used play-based learning to nurture campers’ natural curiosity in science and nature.

In her spare time, she can be found reading, playing trivia, and watching musicals. She also loves exploring nature and growing her birding life list.

Music Teacher

Bachelor of Music, Music Education- University of Delaware
Master of Music, Music Education- Gordon College
cmorgan@thecroftschool.org

Chrissy joined Croft in 2024. Chrissy is so excited to be part of this special, close knit community in her own neighborhood. She loves teaching early childhood and lower elementary and is also looking forward to seeing Croft grow in the coming years!

She taught K-5 elementary general music in the North Reading Public Schools for 12 years, where she also enjoyed directing the chorus and musical theater programs.

She lives in the South End with her husband and two young children. Chrissy enjoys singing with the Boston Choral Ensemble, dancing, skiing, reading, going to concerts and musicals, and traveling.

Associate Teacher

B.A., Boston College
csaporito@thecroftschool.org

Claire joined Croft in 2024. Claire is looking forward to working with others who share her passion for inspiring well-rounded young learners.

Before Croft, Claire worked in tech sales at a start-up in New York. Prior to that, she worked as a Nanny and Teaching Assistant in Los Angeles.

Outside of Croft, Claire enjoys exercising, reading, and baking.

Spanish Teacher

Bachelor Degree in Early Child Education,
Harvard Certificate in Children Rights theory and practice.
csantos@thecroftschool.org

Cristi joined Croft in 2022. Cristi feels that Croft is an exceptional place to work due to its stimulating environment for young learners, featuring innovative and individualized learning methods. Additionally, the school has a strong sense of community and focuses on building meaningful relationships with families, students, and staff members.

Born and raised in Colombia, Cristi relocated to Massachusetts six years ago to follow her passion for preschool education. She holds a bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education from UNAB University in Colombia and brings over eight years of experience working with children from diverse backgrounds. Cristi has a profound commitment to teaching and a keen interest in language acquisition. Over the past five years, she has contributed to institutions in Massachusetts that focus on language learning, including the NAAM, where she supported immigrants and refugees in adapting to and acquiring new languages. For the past three years, Cristi has served as the Spanish teacher at Croft, where she has made significant strides in fostering bilingualism and cultural understanding among her students.

In her spare time, she enjoys swimming, traveling and spending time outdoors in the nature with her dog.

Associate Teacher

Bachelor of Arts,
Rochester Institute of Technology
dkazarian@thecroftschool.org

David joined Croft in 2022. The South End is a tight-knit, diverse community that David has called home for over 20 years. He appreciates being apart of a school community that reflects this diversity.

David believes teaching at a school that focusses on a student-centered education makes learning so much more impactful. He loves collaborating with educators that are truly passionate, and that inspire him to grow.

Before coming to Croft, David worked as an Art Director in advertising.

He thrives on creativity, and encourages self expression through art.

In his free time, David enjoys exploring museums and art throughout Boston. He is an avid animal lover, and enjoys being active outdoors running, hiking and walking.

Educator Associate

B.A., Smith College
erodriguez@thecroftschool.org

Edweyza joined Croft in 2023. Edweyza works at Croft because its values resonate with her passion for education and building strong communities. She loves being part of a team that genuinely cares about creating an inclusive and supportive environment, where she can make a real impact while growing alongside dedicated colleagues.

Edweyza taught English in Spain at a secondary school (ages 11-18) and tutored young children through play based learning. She also worked at The United South End Settlements afterschool program.

Outside the classroom Edweyza enjoys salsa and bachata dancing, acting, and exploring new places.

Nurse

Bachelor of Science,
Northeastern University
echen@thecroftschool.org

Eileen joined Croft in 2024. She wanted to work in a pediatric environment and the Croft School provided that opportunity. She also grew up in the South End and currently lives in the neighborhood.

Before joining the Croft South End team, Eileen works in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).

Outside of Croft, Eileen enjoys reading, cooking/ baking, trying new restaurants and attending workout classes.

Preschool Teacher

Bachelor of Arts,
University of Massachusetts Amherst
eelmwood@thecroftschool.org

Emily joined Croft in 2024. Emily is so excited to begin working at Croft. In her application process, Emily learned that Croft is a school with a very strong community of families, and a dedicated team of teachers who are passionate about education and child development. Emily is honored to join such a supportive and caring team, and can't wait to meet all of the wonderful children and families that make Croft so uniquely strong!

Since her graduation from UMass in 2017, Emily has worked as a preschool teacher, children's theatre director, and vocal coach. She still directs 2 musicals per year for elementary school aged children.

Emily loves to sing, spend time with her friends and family, paint her nails, visit museums, and take care of Omelette, her very round cat.

Associate Teacher

Bachelor of Arts,
Mount Holyoke College
gdowney@thecroftschool.org

Gigi joined Croft in 2024. Gigi is drawn to the Croft School's mission of hands on, student-lead forms of education and the Croft school's commitments to diversity and to antiracist work. Gigi loves working one on one with kids and in small groups - something the Croft Schools excel at. With curiosity and community at the forefront of Croft's values, and an arsenal of experienced educators, Gigi is excited to contribute to the Croft school's mission.

After graduating in 2023 with a Bachelor of Arts from Mount Holyoke College, Gigi found themself working as a barista and in Cambridge public schools as after school educator.

Gigi is a high level competitive Ultimate Frisbee athlete - they have competed on many nationally ranked club teams and played briefly on the under twenty four national team. When they are not playing frisbee, you can catch them doing arts and crafts, cooking, hiking and backpacking, and catching hermit crabs at the beach!

Associate Teacher

Salem State University
Major: Criminal Justice
Minor: Psychology
ishrestha@thecroftschool.org

Ishita joined Croft in 2024. Ishita chose Croft because she loves its commitment to student education and its focus on student interest-based learning. Croft fosters a strong community for teachers and families! She also appreciates the innovative and independent learning opportunities available for students, from preschool through first grade.

Ishita has experience working with children ages 5 to 12 through her role at Eliot Community Human Services, where she supported children in the Department of Children and Families (DCF).

Outside of Croft, Ishita works as a licensed esthetician at Boston Perfect Eyebrows, which is her mom's salon! She is passionate about beauty and loves helping people feel good about themselves. Currently, she is also in the process of obtaining her Permanent Makeup license. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends.

1st Grade Teacher

kiwanicki@thecroftschool.org

Kelsey joined Croft in 2024. She is thrilled to be the Founding Grade 1 Teacher and is passionate about primary school education, problem-based learning, and using Boston as our playground and school.

Kelsey taught six years in first through third grade in Connecticut and Massachusetts. She graduated from the University of Connecticut with her Masters in Curriculum and Instruction and Bachelors in Elementary Education.

In her free time, Kelsey loves reading, being outside, and being with her family.

Assistant Educator

Bachelor of Arts,
Providence College
khuang@thecroftschool.org

Kevin joined Croft in 2022. Croft was very welcoming and encouraging to Kevin on his path in education.

Before Croft, Kevin was working in insurance and camp counseling summer camps.

Outside of Croft Kevin loves listening to music, hanging out with friends, and rooting for the Celtics.

Pre-Kindergarten Teacher

Bachelor of Science, Tennessee State University
ksavannah@thecroftschool.org

Kiya joined Croft in 2023. Kiya is a dedicated pre-k teacher who has always had a passion for early childhood education. When she joined the Croft team in 2023, she was immediately drawn to the warm and nurturing environment that the organization offered. The focus on individualized learning and development, as well as the commitment to creating a strong sense of community, made Croft a perfect fit for her and her daughter, who is a current student at Croft. She values the opportunities for personal growth and development at Croft and is proud to be part of a team that is dedicated to their students' success.

Prior to coming to Croft, Kiya taught Pre-K and Preschool for 9 year at Ellis (located in the South End ).

Kiya's interests include spending quality time with her daughter and family and going on weekend adventures and yearly vacations.

Grade 2 Teacher

M.S. in Curriculum, Assessment and Instruction
mstamps@thecroftschool.org

Monique joined Croft in 2025. When sheI first came across The Croft School, she was immediately reminded of the kind of school she would have loved as a child — a place where students are known deeply, learning is both challenging and joyful, and relationships are at the center of everything. Throughout her career, she’s always been drawn to communities that prioritize connection, creativity, and high expectations. She believes that when students feel seen, supported, and inspired, they are willing to take risks, push themselves, and grow into the best versions of themselves. From everything she has learned about Croft — from the mission to the team to the authentic way they partner with families — it was clear that this is a place where those values are truly lived, not just stated. Monique is excited to be part of a school that is still building and growing, where teachers have a voice, where collaboration is valued, and where every day feels meaningful. Being part of The Croft School feels like the perfect next step, both professionally and personally, and she is truly grateful for the opportunity to join this community.

Monique has spent the past 20 years in education, working in California, Louisiana, and Massachusetts as a classroom teacher, mentor teacher, curriculum writer, and most recently as an instructional coach. In her coaching role, she partnered with teachers to strengthen instruction, support curriculum implementation, and create more engaging learning environments. While she loved supporting teachers, she realized how much she missed the daily connections with students — building trust, celebrating growth, and creating a space where every child feels seen and valued. That pull back to the classroom, combined with Croft’s mission of joyful, rigorous, relationship-centered learning, made this the perfect next step. Monique is truly grateful for the opportunity to return to the heart of why she loves this work and to help build a classroom community where every child can thrive.

Outside of Croft, Monique loves doing yoga and spending time with my family. Yoga helps her stay grounded and clear-headed, and there’s nothing better than hanging out with family — whether it’s traveling, cooking together, or just relaxing and catching up. They’re a big part of what keeps her happy and balanced.

Kindergarten Teacher

B.S. Psychology
M.Ed. Elementary Education
ofragola@thecroftschool.org

Olivia joined Croft in 2025. Olivia joined Croft because she loves that curiosity, creativity, and community are at the heart of everything the school does. Its focus on student-centeredness—honoring each child’s voice, choice, and unique learning journey—aligns closely with her values as an educator. She looks forward to supporting students in meaningful and lasting ways.

Before coming to Croft, Olivia taught students in kindergarten through second grade, building a strong foundation in early childhood education. Her passion for supporting young learners extends beyond the classroom—she also spends her free time creating engaging, developmentally appropriate kindergarten curriculum that reflects her deep understanding of how children grow, learn, and thrive.

Outside of Croft, Olivia enjoys spending time with her family, going on hikes to be in nature, and is beginning to learn how to crochet!

Associate Teacher

B.F.A., Emerson College
rashley@thecroftschool.org

Regina joined Croft in 2025. Regina works at the Croft because she is passionate about providing students the opportunity to pursue their individual interests and curiosities within the structure of a classroom. She is excited to be working in a strong community that values diversity, support, and social emotional learning in tandem with academics.

Regina recently completed her degree in Theatre Education at Emerson College. She spent her college years creating theater and working at local theaters, with a focus on theater for young audiences. She has also worked in numerous summer camps and has always had a passion for education and childcare.

Outside of the Croft, Regina enjoys baking, crafting, making theater, and going on runs and walks around the city.

Associate Teacher

B.S. in Psychology, James Madison University
M.A. in Inclusive Early Childhood Education
sgrierson@thecroftschool.org

Savannah joined Croft in 2025. Savannah believes that a classroom should be a happy place for students and teachers alike and immediately felt this way when walking through The Croft School’s doors. She is thrilled to be joining The Croft School and is excited to participate in a welcoming and engaging learning environment where every student feels valued and supported. Croft’s focus on fostering curiosity and encouraging students to take risks in a warm and nurturing environment aligns well with her personal teaching philosophy. With a background in inclusive early childhood education, Savannah values the school’s commitment to a well-rounded approach to development, where social, emotional, and academic learning are all prioritized. She is excited to contribute to an environment that emphasizes lifelong learning, where she can continue to grow as an educator and help students become the brightest version of themselves.

Before joining Croft, Savannah earned a Master of Arts in Inclusive Early Childhood Education and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from James Madison University, located in her home state of Virginia. She has gained extensive experience working in various educational settings, including public and private schools, as well as through private tutoring and nannying roles. Savannah has worked as an early childhood special education student teacher, where she supported children with individualized education plans. In addition to her classroom experience, she has spent her summers working with children, either coaching swim teams or leading activities in educational summer camps.

Outside of her passion for education, Savannah loves spending time outdoors. Two of her favorite places are the mountains, where she enjoys skiing, and the beach, where she can relax with a good book. In addition to these activities, she finds joy in going for long, slow runs while listening to her favorite music. Savannah also enjoys experimenting with new cookie recipes, solving Sudoku puzzles, and, above all, spending time with her family and friends.

Pre-Kindergarten Teacher

B.A in ECE and Human services, Cambridge College
swhite@thecroftschool.org

Shamika joined Croft in 2023. She is drawn to Croft because of its commitment to fostering a vibrant and engaging learning environment for children. The school's focus on nurturing emotions, creativity and curiosity in kids resonates with her. The smaller size of the school allows her to build strong relationships with families, colleagues, and children, creating a close-knit community where she can thrive both professionally and personally. She also values the teamwork at Croft, where she can collaborate with fellow educators, share insights, and work together towards shared objectives.

With over 15 years of experience in the field of early education, she has gained experience in the Universal Pre-K (UPK) curriculum andTeaching Strategies Gold components.Her diverse background includes valuable experience working in the charter school system, providing insights into different educational approaches. Currently serving as a Pre-k lead teacher for about a year at Croft , she brings a wealth of knowledge and skills to create engaging and enriching learning experiences for young learners.

Her interests are traveling, watching movies, spending time with family/friends, and writing to relax and stay creative!

Kindergarten Teacher

Bachelors in Special Education and Elementary Education,
Calvin University of Michigan
thuisman@thecroftschool.org

Tommy joined Croft in 2024. Tommy is thrilled to be joining the diverse and student centered learning community at The Croft School. Involving students interests and appropriate developmental needs in the learning process is part of what drew Tommy to the Croft school. He is also excited to be working alongside a strong team of educators who will support him and strengthen his professional teaching skills.

Tommy started his career as a Spanish Immersion Kindergarten Teacher in Michigan at Grand Rapids Christian Schools. There he transitioned to working as an Inclusion Coordinator within the same school system. For the last two years Tommy has been back in the classroom as a Lead Kindergarten Teacher at Park Street School in Boston.

Outside of school, Tommy enjoys music, outdoor activities like running and surfing, and spending time with loved ones.

Operations Associate

B.S. Northeastern University
vchan@thecroftschool.org

Vanessa joined Croft in 2023. They love Croft’s mission to foster an inclusive, empathetic and equitable environment that supports the learning of all students!

Before beginning their role at Croft SE, they completed their degree at Northeastern. During this time, they worked at Croft JP as a co-op and extended day teacher.

In their free time, they love museums, books, coffee and collecting Pokemon cards!