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 taught at The Jack and Jill School for seventeen years. 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 Certification. Jennifer loves to travel with her two children and spending time outdoors with friends and family.

 

alma liriano,

ASSISTANT TEACHER, SPanish Teacher

Alma Liriano 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 her fourth year with us.



 
 

KRISTI RIBBECKE,

Young 2/3’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 both 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 third year at Jack and Jill.

 

dominique leonard,

Playgroup resource Teacher

This is Miss Dominique’s third year at Jack and Jill. Working with children has enriched Dominique’s life. She desires to inspire them to see the glass half full and consistently refillable. She loves to learn a child’s gifts and hone it in through visual artistry, imaginary play, creative games and much more. Dominique was born and raised in Brooklyn, NY and 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.

 

CATHERINE HARVEY,

YOUNG 3/4’S Lead teacher

This is Catherine's fourth year at the Jack and Jill School. She is a native New Yorker and graduated from Pace University with a Bachelor of Arts in Childhood Education in 2021. During her undergraduate studies, she spent a lot of time in the classroom, both virtually and in-person with several different age groups. She is currently in her final year of graduate school at Bank Street College. Outside of the classroom, you can find Catherine reading, looking at movies or spending time with family, friends and her dog.

 

Ingrid restrick,

substitute Teacher

This is Ingrid’s eighth year at The Jack and Jill School. She graduated from Wake Forest University, where she studied art and art history. She is passionate about art and passing it on to children, enabling each to be expressive and creative in their own way through studying the masters. Her greatest reward is the excitement and pride they feel with their finished products. Ingrid has raised three creative girls, Emma, who graduated from Wake Forest University, Arden from Bennington College, and Brett from The College of William and Mary. In her spare time she enjoys bike riding, pottery, and gardening.