The North/Toddler Classroom

Our North/Toddler Classroom is cozy and inviting with ample space to explore art activities, Montessori materials and manipulative work. It even contains a Loft which acts as a dress-up/fantasy play area (for kids only!)

This classroom houses our North Class (3-day, Mornings, Monday/Wednesday/ Friday) for 15 two- and three-year-olds, as well as our Toddler Class (2 day, mornings, Tuesday/Thursday) in which 12 two-year-olds gain their first taste of school.

Also, any younger children (under four) who need an Extended Day option use this classroom in the afternoons as a nap room (1:30-3:00) and with our Afterschool Center.

Stephanie Nutter - Head Teacher

Stephanie Nutter has been part of the MMS family since 1998. She brings her positive energy and enthusiastic nature to the classroom.

Stephanie is permanently certified through NYS in pre-k, elementary and special education. She was the Head Teacher in our Southwest Classroom until she went on maternity leave in 2008. We are fortunate to have her return to Morningside this fall to teach the Toddler and M/W/F Class.

Stephanie has a wealth of experience working with children. She has worked in a variety of educational settings for 20 years, including: Aide/Assistant Teacher/Head Teacher of a Child Care Program, Assistant Director of a Camp, and a pre-kindergarten Teacher. It is obvious she loves working with children.  

She resides on Long Island with her husband Bill and daughter Alexandra. She loves being a new Mom just as much as she loves being a teacher.

Delia Rivera – Assistant Teacher

Delia arrived at Morningside in 1988 and has established herself as a creative and sensible teacher in the Toddler/North Classes.

Delia was born in NYC. She has a husband, Richie, and four children.

She brings in many wonderful art project ideas as well as Language activities which keep the room dynamic. Delia's experience is an invaluable benefit to her fellow teachers and to the children.

Teresa Marte – Montessori Teacher

Teresa Marte  is a teacher in the North Class. She was born in the Dominican Republic and moved to New York City in 1989. Teresa currently lives with her husband Jerry on the upper Eastside. They have two children Luis and Edward. Edward is currently in the Southwest class.

Teresa loves working with children and has been teaching for many years. She became Montessori certified in the year of 2002 and is working on finishing her Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education at City College.

Tina Ferrone - Afterschool Center Teacher

Tina has been with Morningside since 1982. She has been a classroom teacher and is now a priceless addition to our Afterschool Center.

Tina is originally from Italy.

Tina's vast experience with young children and her gentle caring make her an adored member of the staff in the eyes of the children.

Kelly Olsen – Afterschool Center Teacher

Kelly Olsen started working for Morningside as a head counselor in the summer of 2008. Kelly currently teaches in the North classroom and runs our After School Program with Tina Ferrone.

She graduated from West Chester University of Pennsylvania in 2006 with her Bachelors in Elementary Education and will being taking classes towards her Master’s Degree in Early childhood Special Education this summer.

She was born and raised outside of Philadelphia and moved to New York City in April.