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Mary Naftal is a visionary leader and an influential figure in the field of early childhood arts education. With her unwavering commitment to providing exceptional learning experiences for young children, she serves as the President and Chief Academic Officer of KidzConnection.
Mary Naftal has been teaching students of all ages for over 40 years. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Education with Specializations in Early Childhood Education and Dance. Mary’s dedicated work as an educator has been recognized by Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers, an Islip Small Business Award, Dance Studio Life Magazine, and Dance Teacher Magazine. Before founding Dance Connection, Mary worked as a substitute school teacher and as the corporate Training Administrator for Empire of America Bank. Mary is the Artistic Director for Dance Connection and the President & Founder of Penny Prima®. Mary is a proud member of Dance Educators of America, the National Dance Education Organization, the New York State Dance Education Association, and the Suffolk County Women’s Business Enterprise Coalition.
Jenn D’Aura is an esteemed educator and childcare professional, widely recognized for her unwavering dedication to fostering early childhood development and providing a nurturing environment for children. As the School Director of KidzConnection, Jenn brings a wealth of experience and a diverse skill set to her role.
With over 15 years of teaching and childcare experience, Jenn’s passion for education shines through in every aspect of her work. She holds a CDA (Child Development Associate) certification, which demonstrates her commitment to promoting the social, emotional, and cognitive growth of young children. Additionally, Jenn is mat trained, ensuring the safety of the children under her care. Jenn’s commitment to the well-being of children goes beyond their physical health. She holds certifications in CPR, first aid, and mental health, enabling her to provide immediate support in case of emergencies and effectively address the emotional needs of the children. Her extensive knowledge and experience in child care are further enhanced by numerous New York State child care certifications, which validate her expertise in adhering to the highest standards of child care practices. Apart from her expertise in early education, Jenn is also an accomplished dance teacher with an impressive 20-year tenure.
Jenn’s leadership as the School Director of KidzConnection is characterized by her unwavering dedication to creating a positive and stimulating learning environment and her genuine passion for early childhood education.
Biography coming soon.
KidzConnection provides high-quality care and early education for children ages 3 & 4.