Get to know the heart of NCDC! Our dedicated and passionate team of educators is committed to providing a nurturing and enriching experience for every child. All of our educators are certified in First Aid & CPR. We believe in fostering a strong connection between our staff, children and families, and we are excited for you to learn more about the individuals who make our Center so special.
Ms. Samantha – Director
Ms. Samantha started her career in early childhood education in 2016, she joined the NCDC family since 2012, starting out as a classroom teacher. She was promoted to the Center Director position in 2019. She holds EEC certification as a Lead Teacher in Infant/Toddler, Preschool as well as Director I and II. In addition to holding all EEC certifications, Ms. Samantha also holds a Bachelor’s degree in Education from Franklin Pierce College and a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Fitchburg State University. Ms. Samantha’s main goal each day is to provide a high-quality educational environment for the children to learn and grow through their early learning years, making NCDC a family first program. She believes that NCDC’s collaboration with family is what makes the connection from home to school complete.
Ms. Vanessa – Assistant Director
Ms. Vanessa has been a part of the NCDC family since 2017. Her passion for early childhood education began in 2012 when she graduated from Montachusetts Regional Vocational Technical School. Ms. Vanessa holds certificates to teach in various age groups, including Infant/Toddler, Preschool, and Director I. Outside of NCDC, Ms. Vanessa enjoys spending time with her husband, three daughters and two dogs. She has a soft spot for purple, a weakness for Reese’s and chocolate chip cookies, and a love for Homegoods and Target.
Ms. Emily – Ducklings / Infant Teacher
Ms. Emily joined the NCDC family in 2018, bringing her passion for early childhood education to our program. Her journey began in 2015 when she discovered a true love for caring for infants and toddlers, as well as supporting their families. Ms. Emily graduated from Montachusetts Regional Vocational Technical School’s Early Childhood Education program and holds an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education. Outside of work, she cherishes her role as a mother of two girls and enjoys spending time outside whenever possible.
Ms. Ava – Ducklings / Infant Teacher
Ms. Ava joined the NCDC family in 2022, bringing her passion for early childhood education that has flourished since 2021. She holds EEC certifications to teach both infants/toddlers and preschools, reflecting her experience caring for caring for children across a wide range, from 8 weeks to 6 years old. Ms. Ava has a deep love for this field and enjoys creating a warm and nurturing environment for young learners. Outside of the classroom, she enjoys spending time outdoors, especially at the beach, and cherishes moments with loved ones.
Ms. Avery – Ducks / Toddler Teacher
Ms. Avery has been working in the early childhood education field since 2016 and have loved being a part of the NCDC family since 2017. She graduated from Keene State College and have EEC certifications to teach both Infants/Toddlers and Preschoolers. Ms. Avery is married with two wonderful children (and another one on the way!), they love spending time together as a family, whether it’s cooking up a storm in the kitchen, trying out new baking recipes or enjoying a leisurely walk.
Ms. Erin – Ducks / Toddler Teacher
Ms. Erin joined the NCDC family in 2024. She graduated from Montachusetts Regional Vocational Technical School’s Early Childhood Education program in 2020 and has been dedicated to nurturing young minds ever since. Outside of the classroom, Ms. Erin enjoys spending time with her three beloved cats and exploring her passion for baking.
Ms. Kiana – Guppies / Preschool Teacher
Ms. Kiana joined the NDCD family in 2020, bringing a wealth of enthusiasm and dedication to her role. A graduate of Montachusetts Regional Vocational Technical School’s Early Childhood Education program, she holds an EEC certificate to teach Preschoolers. Ms. Kiana enjoys creating a warm and engaging learning environment for her students. Outside of work, she cherishes spending time with her daughter, enjoys staying active through exercise, and values quality tie with family and friends.
Ms. Michelle – Guppies / Preschool Teacher
Ms. Michelle joined the NCDC family in November 2022, bringing a diverse background to her role as an educator. Her journey in early childhood education began in 2014 when she worked as a camp counselor, igniting her passion for children. Ms. Michelle holds a degree in Biology/Chemistry from Fitchburg State University with a minor in Early Childhood Education, and she has further enhanced her qualifications with an EEC certification to teach preschoolers. Additionally, she has pursued certifications in EKG, phlebotomy, and as a nurse’s assistant, demonstrating her commitment to health and well-being. When not in the classroom, Ms. Michelle enjoys staying active at the gym, exploring nature through hiking, and appreciating the beauty of sunrises and sunsets. she cherishes spending time with her loved ones and creating lasting happy memories.
Ms. Amanda – Munchkins / Preschool Teacher
M. Amanda joined the NCDC family in 2019, bringing with her a wealth of experience. A dedicated educator since 2007, she holds EEC certifications in Infants/Toddlers, Preschool and Director, reflecting her extensive knowledge and expertise in early childhood education. Ms. Amanda is truly grateful to have the opportunity to do what she loves every day. When not in the classroom, she enjoys reading and photography, her favorite moves are The Fifth Element and anything Marvel related. Her favorite foods are tacos, sushi, spaghetti and meatballs, and a good cup of coffee.
Ms. Alex W. – Munchkins / Preschool Teacher
Ms. Alex W. became a valued member of the NCDC family in 2025. She brings experience in childcare through her extensive babysitting of children ages 3 to 10. Ms. Alex is currently focused on developing her skills in providing one-on-one support to children, demonstrating her commitment to individualized care. Outside of her work at NCDC, she enjoys expressing her creativity through singing, dancing, and participating in a variety of outdoor activities. Ms. Alex W. also has a passion for decorating and loves being involved in collaborative projects.
Ms. Anika – Stars / Preschool Teacher
Ms. Anika has been with the NCDC family since 2021, bringing a passion for early childhood education to our program. A graduate of Montachusetts Regional Vocational Technical School’s Early Childhood Education program, she holds an EEC certification to teach Preschool and a certification in Child Development Associate (CDA). When not in the classroom, Ms. Anika enjoys traveling, exploring nature and reading. Autumn is her favorite season, green is her favorite color, and she particularly enjoy snacking on hummus and veggies.
Ms. Debbie – Stars / Preschool Teacher
Ms. Debbie brings a wealth of experience to the NCDC team, having joined us in 2025. With over 50 years of dedicated service in early childhood education, she brings a unique perspective and a deep understanding of child development. A graduate of an Air Force base high school in Germany, Ms. Debbie furthered her education at Quinsigamond College, focusing on Human Services. When not at NCDC, she enjoys spending quality time with her grandchildren, engaging in challenging puzzles, and embarking on lighthouse tours during the pleasant weather.
Ms. Alex P. – Support Teacher
Ms. Alex P. joined the NCDC family in 2024. She is currently a student in the Early Childhood Education program at Montachusetts Regional Vocational Technical School, demonstrating her commitment to professional development in the field. Ms. Alex P. brings valuable experience to her role, having served as a volunteer teacher in both the Montachusetts Regional Vocational Technical School’s preschool program and Head Start. In her free time, she enjoys leisurely walks, reading and expressing her creativity through crocheting. She especially love crocheting stuffed animals.
Ms. Brissa – Support Teacher
Ms. Brissa joined theNCDC family in March 2024. A graduate of the Early Childhood Education program at Montachusetts Regional Vocational Technical School, where she earned her Childhood Development Associate (CDA). Outside of the classroom, Ms. Brissa enjoys spending time with her pet bunny, Cookie, and indulging in her love for travel. She particularly enjoys the magic of Disney and the excitement of Universal Studios.
Ms. Bella – Support Teacher
Ms. Bella has been a valued member of the NCDC family since 2020. She is currently a senior at Fitchburg State University, pursuing a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education. In her free time, Ms. Bella enjoys spending quality time with her family and friends, exploring new places, and embarking on hiking adventures with her dog.