Middle Kids 1

Keila Marie Torres joins Purple Circle as the Lead Teacher for Middle Kids 1. She is so thrilled to be learning and growing alongside you this year! She is a graduate of the Art of Teaching Program at Sarah Lawrence College and hold a master’s degree in both Early Childhood as well as Childhood Education. She also completed her undergraduate studies at SLC with a focus on Literature, Creative Writing, and French language. She has had the pleasure of working with children in a variety of educational roles and vibrant settings over the past 10 years. Some of the highlights of her teaching career includes her time as an English language assistant in France and a stint as a LEGO robotics instructor. She is a social justice-minded educator who aims to bring an appreciation for different languages and cultures into the classroom (she speaks Spanish as well as French and would love to know about any other languages you speak at home!). At the end of the day, she is a passionate lover of music, movement, good books, and hands-on, experiential learning who will always put the best interest of her students first. Her hours are 8:30am – 4:00pm.

Yesica Juarez has been with Purple Circle for over 10 years. During that time, she has traveled amongst all classrooms and has gained a lot of experience amongst all age groups. She spent most of those years in the Little Kids classroom but is beyond thrilled to explore Middle Kids 1 for a second year. She has a passion for Art and loves to incorporate it into the exploration and learning of the classroom. She looks forward to supporting the MK1 community and can’t wait to learn more about your children as thinkers and learners. Yesica graduated from SUNY Westchester Community College with an AAS degree. There she studied several Early Childhood courses. Yesica’s hours are 8:30am – 4:00pm.

Yoranny Lopez, better known as Jada was raised in Upper Manhattan, the Heights. Growing up, her family called her Jada and it stayed with her ever since. She is bilingual , fluent in both Spanish and English, but she also understands a bit of French! Jada holds a BA in Science and Social Work from Monroe College, and worked at the Bank Street School for Children for seven years before coming to Purple Circle last year. Jada’s hours are 8:00am – 4:00pm.

Judith Williams was born in London, England and her family migrated to the United States when we was twelve years old. Judith’s teaching career began at Pratt Institute where she pursued her interest in Fine Art and Education. She holds a BFA and also a Masters Degree in Early Childhood Education from City College. Judith has worked in both private and public school settings, and has worked at Purple Circle for over five years. Judith’s hours are 2:00pm – 6:00pm and she is our Late Day teacher.