FACULTY & STAFF
The Jack and Jill School prides itself on a world-class faculty and staff that is fully committed to the education and well-being of every individual child. Jack and Jill faculty works diligently to create a family atmosphere while also providing a quality education.
Jennifer allen,
Director
Jennifer has been at The Jack and Jill School for seventeen years and the last four as Director. She has had exciting moments motivating, and challenging students at every stage of their pre-k journey throughout our school. She brings her contagious enthusiasm for children to The Jack and Jill community. Jennifer has a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Childhood Education, a Masters of Science in Early Childhood Education from Brooklyn College and her New York State Childhood Certification and Early Childhood Teacher Certification. Jennifer loves to travel with her two children and spending time outdoors with friends and family. This is Ms. Jennifer’s eighteenth year at Jack and Jill.
alma liriano,
LEAD AND SPanish Teacher
Alma Liriano was born and raised in Bonao, Dominican Republic. Her passion for working with children began at an early age and has grown into a meaningful career dedicated to supporting young learners during the most important years of their development. As a lead and Spanish teacher, Ms. Alma is committed to creating a nurturing, inclusive and engaging classroom where every child feels value and encourage to learn. As a native Spanish speaker, she enjoys introducing children to the Spanish language through music, movement, stories, conversations and hands-on activities. She believes that learning a second language at an early age helps children develop confidence, curiosity and an appreciation for different cultures. Alma is proud to be entering her sixth year at The Jack and Jill School.
KRISTI RIBBECKE,
LEAD TEACHER AND yoga INSTRUCTOR
Kristi is a graduate of Lehigh University. Her experience spans from Financial Consulting to Literacy Coach. Kristi and her family have been a part of the Jack and Jill community for nearly 12 years - her two daughters attended our Playgroup and are Jack and Jill graduates! She is an avid fitness enthusiast and enjoys playing board games and cards, traveling and spending time with friends, family and her dog, Blondie. This is Mrs. Kristi’s fifth year at Jack and Jill.
LESLIE MCDONALD,
PLAYGROUP teacher
Leslie is a lifelong New Yorker, born and raised in the East Village and still very much in love with this neighborhood. She’s a graduate of Clark University in Worcester, MA. As a parent of two children who attended The Jack and Jill Playgroup and Preschool programs, Leslie has experience the school’s community firsthand. She is an avid reader and a Broadway fan. This is Mrs.Leslie’s first year at Jack and Jill.
mary bunny karst,
LEAD teacher
Bunny moved from California to New York and has found a home at Jack and Jill. She graduated from the University of Arizona with a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education and a Master of Arts in Education from Regis University. She has a California State Teacher Certification and is in the process of converting to a New York State Teacher Certification. Outside of the classroom, you can find Bunny reading, playing games with friends and family or traveling. This is Ms. Bunny’s second year at Jack and Jill.
JHORDYN LEE-NICHOLAS ASSISTANT Teacher
Jhordyn is a native New Yorker and a welcome addition to our team. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Childhood Education from the University of Trinidad and Tobago. Through her teaching experiences, she has developed a passion for creating creative, interactive, and hands-on learning experiences that cater to the different needs and abilities to make learning enjoyable and meaningful. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling, spending time with her family and friends and exploring new experience. This is Miss Jhordyn’s first year at Jack and Jill.
KATHRYN MURRY ASSISTANT
TEACHER
Kathryn is a native of South Dakota and a welcome addition to the team. She has always had a passion for teaching and working with children. She is currently pursuing her bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Eduction and brings four years of classroom experience to her work with young children. In her free time, Kathryn enjoys drawing, writing, and reading. She is excited to begin her first year at Jack and Jill and looks forward to becoming a part of the school community and creating meaningful experiences for her students.
liliana verna LEAD teacher
Liliana is a Connecticut native and a welcome addition to your team. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago. She earned her Masters in Social Work from Quinnipiac University and is a licensed master social worker (LMSW) in the state of New York. Liliana has always loved working with children, and her first job at 16 years old was an after-school art teacher. Liliana has been working with children for a number of years. When she is not teaching, you can find her walking her dog in the park and spending time with her family! This is Miss Lily’s second year at Jack and Jill!