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,
ASSISTANT TEACHER, SPanish Teacher
Alma grew up in the small town of Bonao in the Dominican Republic. Since she can remember, Alma has always visualized herself working alongside children to support them early in their academic journey. She believes in advocating for young learners and dedicates her time to creative and inclusive learning. With the help of her Spanish background she was able to obtain her certification, and work in the field of Spanish tutoring. Alma is committed to her duties as a classroom Assistant and Spanish teacher. This is Ms. Alma’s fifth year at Jack and Jill.
KRISTI RIBBECKE,
Young 2’s Lead Teacher
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 fourth year at Jack and Jill.
dominique leonard,
Playgroup resource Teacher
Dominique is a native New Yorker and is the mother of one. She desires to inspire children to see the glass half full and consistently refillable. She loves to learn a child’s gift and hone it in through visual artistry, imaginary play, creative games and much more. Dominique is currently pursuing her Bachelor of Art Degree in Early Childhood Education. In her spare time, you’ll find Dominique cooking, traveling or spending time with her family. This is Miss Dominique’s fourth year at Jack and Jill.
mary bunny karst,
YOUNG 3’S 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 first year at Jack and Jill.
IMANI KNIGHTS,
YOUNG 3’S
LEAD Teacher
Imani is a native New Yorker and a welcome addition to your team. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from the University of the Southern Caribbean. For the past five years, she taught students ranging in age from 3 - 6 years, focusing on their creative and academic development. She thrives on motivating and interacting with young minds. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling, exercising and spending time with her family and friends. This is Imani’s second year at Jack and Jill.