A Buffalo native, Annie moved back to western New York in 2017. Before that she was teaching preschool at a Nature Explore program in Nebraska where they used nature-based learning and outdoor play as part of their core curriculum. She loves integrating art and nature with early childhood learning. Annie has 6 children and enjoys painting, exploring outside with her kiddos and reading, of course!

Julianna aka "Miss JZ" is an aDORKable math enthusiast who was born and raised in Amherst, NY. For over 15 years, she has been creating and implementing creative 'out of school' programming for all ages. In her free time she loves playing football, hockey and volunteering for the Amherst Youth Foundation Middle School Activity Nights.

I am very excited to be leading the pre-k enrichment classes for MSMD at various locations throughout WNY. I have been involved in education for over 10 years and have worked with children from ages 2-10. I love to see the excitement and inspiration a story can bring to a child’s life. I look forward to taking your child on an adventure through literacy!

For over 30 years, Patty has been teaching and sharing her joy of learning with children of all ages. She is a certified pre-k-6th grade & special education teacher who has recently retired. Patty is happy to be a part of the MSMD team where she continues to spread her love of reading, nature and gardening. She enjoys travel and having fun with her family and new puppy!

Jennifer served as Shea’s Education Program Coordinator for over 5 years and was recently named Senior Education Associate. Prior to Shea’s she was the Arts & Education Coordinator for the Kenan Center in Lockport. She holds an MFA(Acting) from Purdue University & a BFA (Performance) from SUNY Fredonia. Jennifer has experience in several performing arts organizations, as well as an actress. She regularly visits schools for arts workshops in grades K-12.

Linda is a recently retired preschool teacher (3-4 year old class), but also spent 7 years teaching elementary school. Reading is one of my favorite activities and I really enjoy encouraging and passing on that love to children. There is nothing better than snuggling up with a good book and exploring new worlds with a little learner! I am looking forward to a wonderful week of stories, games and laughs.

WNY raised and educated, Kelly is a NYS certified English Language Arts teacher who taught for 12 years at Cardinal O’Hara High School in Tonawanda. She is currently assisting in a sixth grade classroom at Buffalo Public School #32, Bennett Park Montessori Center. In addition to having a great love for travel, Kelly enjoys reading historical fiction, collecting maps, baking sweet treats, and working on her handmade button artwork. She resides in West Amherst with her husband and daughter.

Amy Smith