Staff
Helping Students Grow
The Growing Tree Preschool is proud to have a staff of teachers that are passionate about making a difference in students’ lives through tireless dedication to education. Get to know each of our team members below.
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Geraldine Torrelio
Office Administrator and After School Teacher Coordinator
Ms. Geraldine earned her DIP in Christian Ministry and Theology. She also graduated from UCC and earned her CE in Early Childhood Education and AA in Administration. Since working with children is one of her passions, she volunteers in the Children’s Ministry at her church.
At Growing Tree, Ms. Gery loves to work with children and their families, as well as being able to assist and serve the community in anything that is possible.
Jessica Cordova
Administrative Assistant and After school Teacher
Ms. Jessica, joined the Growing Tree family in August 2014. She graduated on 2017 from Everest College and earned her Medical Assistant CE. She also attended UCC to obtain her CE in Early Childhood Education. Helping people and teaching is her passion.
Gwenda Baab
Eagles' Teacher
Ms. Gwenda has been working in child care professionally for the past 13 years. Having received her B.A. in K-6 Elementary Ed. NJ Teachers Degree Program, in 2013, she brings current knowledge and skills.
Her passion for Kindergarten readiness has lead her to pursue and receive a P-3 teacher’s Certification. She enjoys nature, music, exercise and reading.
Nidia Torres
Eagles' Teacher Assistant and After School Teacher
Ms. Nidia recently join the Growing Tree Family.
Jessica Zigarelli
Owls' Teacher
Ms. Jessica earned a BA in Early Childhood and Elementary Education from Susquehanna University. She joined the Growing Tree family in 2017 and is excited to continue teaching the Owls’ class. She holds certifications to teach preschool through 6th grade and coaches soccer and basketball for elementary aged boys and girls. When she is not playing a sport, you will find her getting creative with arts and crafts as well as playing the guitar.
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Maria Goicochea
Owls' Teacher Assistant and After School Teacher
Ms. Maria has been working with children since 2014 and has earned her CE in Early Childhood Education. At Growing Tree, you can find her in the Owls’s classroom where she is the teacher’s assistant. She likes interacting with children to gain trust and provide engaging experiences in a relaxed environment as well as doing arts and crafts projects. Ms. Maria is married, has one son, and a lovely dog named “Chase”.
Beata Makowski
Cardinals' Teacher
Ms. Bea has worked in the field of Early Childhood education since 2002 and holds a Bachelor’s degree from Kean University. Ms. Bea enjoys all that children bring into her life. They are so passionate about the world around them. They teach her about curiosity, discovery, imagination, and the never ending desire to learn.
She loves to bring aspects of nature into the classroom. Curiosity takes over fear, stress and the intense focus leads to questions and dialogs.
Her personal mission is to support each child in their journey and give them the care and resources necessary for their growth.
Tannia Estrella
Cardinals' Teacher Assistant and After School Teacher
Ms. Tannia joined the Growing Tree family in September 2014. Loved by students and staff alike, Ms. Tannia brings knowledge, enthusiasm and joy to the children.
She was born in Ambato, Ecuador and has earned her CE in Early Childhood Education. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two children, running, and decorating.
Vanessa Cordova
Robins' Teacher
Violeta Chipa
Robins' Teacher Assistant
Lorena Rivera
Bluebirds' Teacher
Coming soon...
Bluebirds' Teacher Assistant