Stephanie Murtha
Director of South Church Preschool
Stephanie is the Director of South Church Preschool, where she has worked since 2018. She has taught within each classroom setting and served as the Assistant Director for three years prior to stepping into the Director role. Stephanie graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from Queens College and a Master of Science in Childhood Education and Literacy Education from Long Island University NY. She has previously worked with children three to six years of age in a variety of childcare settings and schools both in New York and Connecticut. Stephanie currently lives in Glastonbury with her husband and two daughters. Both her daughters went through South Church Preschool and had many memorable experiences. Stephanie feels preschool is so important because it is the ideal place to help children playfully learn about the world around them.
Stephanie Murtha
Director of South Church Preschool
Stephanie is the Director of South Church Preschool, where she has worked since 2018. She has taught within each classroom setting and served as the Assistant Director for three years prior to stepping into the Director role. Stephanie graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from Queens College and a Master of Science in Childhood Education and Literacy Education from Long Island University NY. She has previously worked with children three to six years of age in a variety of childcare settings and schools both in New York and Connecticut. Stephanie currently lives in Glastonbury with her husband and two daughters. Both her daughters went through South Church Preschool and had many memorable experiences. Stephanie feels preschool is so important because it is the ideal place to help children playfully learn about the world around them.
Heidi Gourley
Registration Administrator
Heidi joined South Church in 2009 and spent six years as a Head Teacher at South Church Preschool, teaching three- and four-year-old students. In her current role as Registration Administrator, she manages student enrollment and administrative operations. Prior to joining South Church, Heidi worked in Human Resources and Marketing for Patrons Mutual Insurance Company. She studied Communications and Psychology at Central Connecticut State University and earned her Child Development Associate (CDA) certification at Manchester Community College.
Katie Loiacono
Head Teacher
2-Day Preschool Class
Katie has over a decade of teaching experience, and is passionate about nurturing children as they learn, play and grow. She is currently the Head Teacher in the 2- Day Program. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Human Development & Family Studies from the University of Connecticut in 2011, followed by a Master’s Degree in Elementary Education from the University of New Haven in 2014. Katie has extensive training and experience working with students with varying learning needs, focusing on language based learning differences, ADHD, and Executive Functioning. Most recently, Katie has supported the SCPS community as a substitute while her two small children attended, reinvigorating her love of teaching preschool age students. In the classroom, Katie aims to nurture the whole child and believes that all children deserve to feel safe, valued, accepted, and loved for exactly who they are. In her personal life, Katie enjoys cooking and baking, spending time on the Connecticut shoreline, and exploring all that Glastonbury has to offer with her family.
Jennifer Ruchwa
Head Teacher
3- Day Preschool Class
Jennifer has worked with children since 2002 as a Pre-K teacher for seven years and most recently as Head Teacher in the 4-day four year old class at SCP. She is currently the Head Teacher for the 3-Day Class.
She has worked in a variety of early childhood education settings including, both state and privately funded nationally accredited programs, an enrichment after school program and a private art program. Jennifer incorporates her experience and love of art, through lessons focused on age appropriate activities surrounding the principles and elements of art.
Jennifer received an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education from Manchester Community College, as well as a Bachelors of Arts Degree in Visual Arts and a Master of Science Degree in Early Childhood Education from Eastern Connecticut State University.
Prior to South Church Preschool Jennifer worked at the Child and Family Development Resource Center at Eastern Connecticut State University as a program assistant. Jennifer enjoys sharing her passion for art with her students and has taught art enrichment in the Pre-K.
Jennifer Ruchwa
Head Teacher
3- Day Preschool Class
Jennifer has worked with children since 2002 as a Pre-K teacher for seven years and most recently as Head Teacher in the 4-day four year old class at SCP. She is currently the Head Teacher for the 3-Day Class.
She has worked in a variety of early childhood education settings including, both state and privately funded nationally accredited programs, an enrichment after school program and a private art program. Jennifer incorporates her experience and love of art, through lessons focused on age appropriate activities surrounding the principles and elements of art.
Jennifer received an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education from Manchester Community College, as well as a Bachelors of Arts Degree in Visual Arts and a Master of Science Degree in Early Childhood Education from Eastern Connecticut State University.
Prior to South Church Preschool Jennifer worked at the Child and Family Development Resource Center at Eastern Connecticut State University as a program assistant. Jennifer enjoys sharing her passion for art with her students and has taught art enrichment in the Pre-K.
Gabrielle Chiappetta
Head Teacher
4-Day Pre-K Class
Gabrielle is currently a head teacher in the 4 day program. She previously worked at South Church as a substitute teacher. She earned her BA from Fordham University and her MA in Childhood Education and Special Education from Hunter College. Gabrielle moved to Glastonbury from the New York City area in 2022 with her husband and two children. Prior to relocating, Gabrielle worked for several years as a fourth grade tenured teacher in a New York City Public School in Elmhurst, Queens. After the birth of her daughter in 2017, Gabrielle returned to the NYC public school system, working as a special education teacher support service provider where she coached small groups using their individualized learning goals and plans. She is a passionate cook and loves spending time outside hiking, biking, swimming, skiing, or playing sports with her family. Gabrielle loves writing, most often poetry and she loves to read, especially children’s books. Her first of many positive experiences with South Church began as a parent in the 2 day class and her son is now a recent graduate of the 4 day program. Gabrielle adores working with young children. She believes that all behavior is sensory related and helpful information. She loves using social-emotional strategies and stories to help kids feel seen, special, supported and strong in their classroom, at home and in their community. Gabrielle believes that children who are provided many opportunities for purposeful play and interest based learning develop a foundational love for knowledge and understanding that transcends the classroom and encourages them to become lifelong learners.
Kelly Tavano
Head Teacher
4-Day Pre-K Class
Kelly is currently the Head Teacher in the 4-day program. She is married and has two wonderful daughters. Kelly grew up in Florida and attended the University of South Florida. Kelly's professional background is in Orthodontics, where she worked with children and families as they had treatment that brought them smiles and self-confidence! Kelly's volunteer work consistently led her to caring for young children. Kelly has been fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with little ones in elementary school while my own children attended, as well as teaching religious education in my church community. Kelly's philosophy is that each child is unique, therefore they learn and thrive at their own pace. Kelly enjoys seeing the excitement and pride in each child's eyes as they discover new things and ideas. When she is not working, I enjoy spending time with my family and our two labrador pups, Braley & Magic!
Larissa Nardi
Head Teacher
5-Day Pre-K Class
Larissa has been teaching at South Church Preschool for over 13 years, having served as Head Teacher for both the 3-day and 4-day programs. For the past three years, she has been the Pre-K Head Teacher, and she has taught Spanish Enrichment in the Pre-K program for the past 10 years. Larissa holds a Master’s Degree in Pedagogy and brings over 28 years of educational experience to her role. Prior to joining South Church Preschool, she taught Portuguese at the Berlitz School of Languages and worked at the Glastonbury YMCA for six years. Outside of the classroom, Larissa loves spending time with family and friends, dining out, gardening, traveling, and reading. Her vibrant energy and spirit enrich our program every day!
Angela Salonia
Assistant Teacher
Angela is currently an Assistant Teacher for the 3 day class and Program Assistant for the two day class. Angela received her undergraduate degree in Psychology from Siena College. After graduation she worked at a Children's Mental Health Clinic in Syracuse, NY. Then she moved to Albany NY where she received her Master's and Licensure in Social Work. She worked for NYS Department of Children, Youth & Families for six years. Angela moved to Glastonbury five years ago and is excited to be joining the team.
Lori Bigliazzi
Assistant Teacher
Lori received her Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education from Northwestern CT Community College and did her student teaching with four year olds. She received her Bachelors Degree from UConn in Human Services. Lori previously taught for several years as a Head Teacher in the 3-day program. She has boy/girl twins that currently attend Glastonbury High School. They attended South Church for two years and have wonderful memories there. For the past two years she has been assistant coach for first through third grade cheerleaders for the Glastonbury Tomahawks. Previously she worked as a Para at Hebron Elementary School. During her free time she loves to visit with her family in Oregon where she grew up. We are so excited to have Lori on board at our center.
Naiana Bower
Assistant Teacher
Naiana is a proud parent of a recent SCP graduate. She has a background in pediatric dentistry and education, including several years as a professor in Brazil, Naiana brings a mix of experience and passion to supporting young learners. Naiana finds so much joy in watching kids explore, ask questions, and get excited about learning—especially those everyday moments when curiosity leads to something new. Her background has fueled her commitment to helping children feel supported, safe, and confident as they grow.
Naiana lives in Glastonbury with her family and enjoys exercising, skiing, reading, solving logic puzzles, cooking with her husband and son, and taking care of their vegetable garden."
Sophia Cicchiello
Assistant Teacher
Sophia received her B.A. from Fordham University in Psychology with a minor in music Starting from a young age and throughout her life, she has always been enthusiastic about teaching children. After college she worked as a preschool teacher on Long Island before she moved to Connecticut to start her family. Sophia has experience teaching parent/tot classes and has also worked as a Teaching Assistant in a PreK 3s classroom here in CT. Sophia loves working with the little ones, she is energetic and loves getting to know each and every child in her class. She and her husband, Manny live in South Glastonbury with their three children: Adrianna, Amelia and Andrew.
Christie Grant
Assistant Teacher
Christie has worked at South Church Preschool since 2022. Through her time she has been assisting with children ages three-five years old. Christie graduated with a Bachelors Degree from The Ohio State University and has worked in many childcare settings including being a Faith Formation teacher at Saint Isidore and Maria in Glastonbury from 2008-2021. Further, she was the Head Glastonbury Cheerleading coach form 2007-2019. Her squads consisted of children from grades 1st-8th. Being the mother of five children she is able to adapt and appreciate all children's personalities. As the mother of preschool alumni from South Church, her heart is warm to continuing being a part of the preschool family.
Amber Ahlschlager
Program Assistant
Amber is a new addition to the South Church Preschool team. Her connection to the school began several years ago when her son became a student, and she quickly came to appreciate the preschool’s commitment to connection-driven learning, empathy, and nurturing relationships with children. Amber brings an extensive professional background in leadership, relationship building, training, and team development across a variety of fields. After becoming a mother, she chose to be a stay-at-home parent, dedicating the past several years to raising her son while remaining actively involved in her school and community through volunteering, PTO, and organizing playdates and community events. Amber lives in Glastonbury with her husband and their seven year old son. Outside of the classroom, she enjoys antiquing, gardening, Victorian poetry, and hosting gatherings for family and friends. She is excited to bring her experience, warmth, and passion for building meaningful relationships to the preschool community. She feels especially fortunate to have the opportunity to support young children as they develop confidence, curiosity, independence, and a lifelong love of learning.
Amber Ahlschlager
Program Assistant
Amber is a new addition to the South Church Preschool team. Her connection to the school began several years ago when her son became a student, and she quickly came to appreciate the preschool’s commitment to connection-driven learning, empathy, and nurturing relationships with children. Amber brings an extensive professional background in leadership, relationship building, training, and team development across a variety of fields. After becoming a mother, she chose to be a stay-at-home parent, dedicating the past several years to raising her son while remaining actively involved in her school and community through volunteering, PTO, and organizing playdates and community events. Amber lives in Glastonbury with her husband and their seven year old son. Outside of the classroom, she enjoys antiquing, gardening, Victorian poetry, and hosting gatherings for family and friends. She is excited to bring her experience, warmth, and passion for building meaningful relationships to the preschool community. She feels especially fortunate to have the opportunity to support young children as they develop confidence, curiosity, independence, and a lifelong love of learning.
Tori Gonsalves
Program Assistant
Tori has over five years of experience working with young children and is passionate about supporting their development through play, exploration, and meaningful relationships. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education (Birth–Kindergarten) with a focus in special education from the University of Hartford in 2025. Tori brings experience from preschool classrooms, kindergarten settings, and her current role as a full-time nanny, allowing her to confidently step into a preschool assistant role with a strong understanding of child development, classroom routines, and collaborative teaching. She has worked with children of all abilities, using play-based, sensory-rich, and child-led approaches inspired by Montessori and Reggio philosophies. Tori especially enjoys supporting preschool-aged children as they learn through hands-on experiences, imaginative play, and social interaction. In the classroom, Tori strives to create a warm, inclusive environment where every child feels safe, valued, and excited to explore. She has a deep love for the outdoors and enjoys incorporating nature-based play, movement, and exploration into children’s daily experiences. Outside of work, Tori loves traveling, crafting, and working on home projects with her fiancé, often drawing inspiration from these interests to bring creativity and real-world connections into the classroom.
Lucy Hartnett
Program Assistant
Lucy Hartnett is a program assistant for the 3-day class and SCP gym teacher. She is married with 4 loving, active children with one child at Glastonbury High, one at Smith Middle school and two at Nayaug Elementary school. Lucy graduated from UCONN with
a Master’s degree in Physical Therapy and has worked in many different settings with various age groups. Being involved in the many different activities with her children keeps her busy and she cherishes the time with them. Last year, Lucy joined the South Church community as a substitute teacher. She also volunteeredto help care for young children at a daycare setting at a church ministry. In herfree time, she enjoys running, cooking, and spending time with family. Lucy is so excited to be a part of this wonderful team at South Church!
Greer Pattison
Program Assistant
Greer is a mom of two SCPS graduates and a big believer that great early learning comes through play and interacting with peers and teachers! She holds a degree in Theater Arts with a specialization in creative writing from Clark University and is the president of a community theater in East Hartford. She has worked with kids for years as a choreographer and co-director for the group’s musicals. She began subbing at SCPS in 2024 and was hooked! To her, witnessing children growing and learning, and helping them find confidence when they conquer hard things is an honor! She lives in Glastonbury with her husband, two children, twin sister, and two cats.
Kate Sala
Program Assistant
Kate is currently a Program Assistant in the 4-Day Program. She grew up in Baltimore, Maryland and received her undergraduate degree from Guilford College in North Carolina with a double major of Psychology and Woman Studies. Kate then went on to earn a Master of Public Health from Johns Hopkins University, after which she moved to Connecticut to start her family. Prior to substitute teaching at South Church Preschool she worked for 10 years at Connecticut Children's Medical Center conducting pediatric research in the ICU. Kate has 2 sons who both attended South Church. She has always had a passion for kids and has worked with children in various capacities since being a teenager. In her free time, Kate enjoys cooking, exercising, and spending time outdoors with her family. She is thirilled to be a part of the South Church Community!
Meredith Wester
Program Assistant
Meredith is excited to work as a Program Assistant at South Church Preschool. For the past four years, she has been the proud parent of a South Church student, as both her daughter and then son attended the 2-day and 4-day programs. Last year, she worked at South Church as a substitute teacher. Meredith received her Bachelor’s Degree from Wesleyan University in economics and her Master’s Degree from the University of Saint Joseph in math education. While her background includes working with elementary, middle school, and high-school aged children, Meredith loves working with preschoolers. She fully embraces the South Church Preschool philosophy and is grateful to be part of the team. In her free time, Meredith enjoys spending time with friends and family, including her husband, two children, and dog, cheering on her kids at their soccer games, reading, and doing puzzles.
Tamara Carella
Program Assistant Floater
Tamara has been with South Church Preschool since the Spring of 2016. She started as a long-term substitute and is currently a Program Assistant Teacher in the 4-day program. Graduating from UConn with a bachelor’s degree in Human Development and Family Studies, she has been working with school aged children for over 10 years in both public and private education. She has also worked in the corporate sector, with 15 years’ experience, in marketing and management. She integrates her professional and educational experience, creativity and organizational skills to help students develop a strong foundation for their educational journey. This is very rewarding to Tamara and she loves to see the student’s growth from the beginning to the end of the year. Tamara is a valued member of our staff and is excited to be part of our team at South Church Preschool. Tamara lives in Portland, CT with her
Claudia Marcinczyk
Support
Claudia has been at South Church Preschool for over 6 years. This year our beloved Claudia is our floating substitute and a favorite of all the children. She has her Bachelors and Masters degrees in Nursing from Boston University. Pediatrics was her specialty practicing in Boston, San Francisco and New Haven. She also has an MBA from UCONN in Health Care Administration. After a 30 year career as the CEO of VNA EAST, Claudia came back to her first love-working with children!!