Teachers & Staff at the preschool
The Co-Op is fortunate to have a highly trained, talented, and dedicated teaching staff whose enthusiastic and supportive approach helps preschool children develop self-esteem and respect for others. The Director and many of the teachers also have a special relationship with the preschool, as their own children attended the Co-Op.
Katherine Gammer, Director
Katherine is in her 14th year as Director of the Ridgewood Co-Op. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing and Psychology from Penn State University and pursued graduate studies in Counseling Psychology at New York University.
Katherine’s connection to the Co-Op runs deep. All three of her children are proud alumni, and during their nine years at the school she was an active parent leader, serving as Fundraising Chairperson, Parent Advocate, and Class Parent. These experiences gave her a unique perspective that continues to shape her collaborative and family-centered approach to leadership today. With a passion for early childhood education and a commitment to fostering a nurturing and enriching school environment, Katherine is dedicated to supporting children, families, and teachers as they grow together within the Co-Op community.
Lauren Lewis, Assistant Director
Lauren is in her 7th year at the Co-Op. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Art from Penn State University and began her career in publishing and advertising before taking time off to raise her two daughters. During those 18 years, she stayed involved in education and community life through active roles in her local PTO. Lauren loves bringing her creativity and enthusiasm into the classrooms and she is excited to continue building strong connections with Co-Op families and their children.
Nicole Torielli, Head Teacher, Pre-K 4s Teacher
This is Nicole's 14th year teaching at the Co-Op, where she serves as our Head Teacher and leads one of our Pre-K 4s classes. She also brings her creativity and passion for learning to several of our Enrichment programs.
Nicole earned her Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and her Master’s in Special Education from Clemson University, followed by a Master’s in Supervision and Administration from Seton Hall University. Before joining the Co-Op, she taught 2nd grade, as well as 1st and 4th grades in Ridgewood’s Travell Elementary School. She has also shared her expertise as an Adjunct Professor at William Paterson University and as a University Supervisor, mentoring aspiring teachers in Elementary and Special Education. Beyond the classroom, Nicole is a proud mom of four children—all Co-Op graduates.
Dina Plavier, 4s Teaching Assistant
Dina is in her 4th year at the Ridgewood Co-Op and is thrilled to be part of the school community. After taking time away from work to raise her daughter—a senior in college—she returned to education, spending three years at Willard School. During that time, she also gave back to her community through active involvement in her daughter’s PTO and faith formation program. Dina has a natural gift for working with children and brings warmth, patience, and enthusiasm to the classroom. She is excited each year to get to know each child and their family.
Meredith Caulfield, Pre-K 4s Teacher
This is Meredith's 6th year at the Ridgewood Co-Op. She holds a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Delaware and a Master’s degree in Education from Fordham University. Over the years, Meredith has taught Pre-K, Kindergarten, and 2nd grade, bringing a wealth of experience to the classroom. An active volunteer in the Ridgewood schools, Meredith is passionate about supporting children during their earliest school experiences—helping them build confidence, curiosity, and a love of learning. She especially enjoys fostering a warm and nurturing environment where every child feels known and valued.
Leena Bansal, 4s Teaching Assistant
Leena is excited to join the Ridgewood Co-Op family this year as an assistant in the 4s classroom. She brings a diverse background, having worked in Marketing with companies such as PepsiCo before dedicating the past 17 years to raising her two children—a son, now a college sophomore, and a daughter, a high school senior. During those years, she stayed active in her children’s schools through parent organizations and community involvement. Leena holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from India and an MBA from Pittsburg State University. She has a warm and caring nature, loves working with children, and is looking forward to getting to know the Co-Op’s students and families.
Diana Mazza, Group Teacher, 3s Teacher
Diana has ben at the Ridgewood Co-Op for 17 years and loves being part of such a special community. She holds an A.A.S. in Early Childhood Education and has built a career around her passion for working with preschool-aged children.
At the Co-Op, Diana wears many hats—she is the Group Teacher for the school, the lead teacher in the 3-year-old class, teaches several Enrichment Programs, and supervises the Extended Day Lunch & Play Program. An experienced and dedicated teacher, Diana loves watching children discover new skills, make friends, and grow more confident each day.
Tammy McCarthy, 3s Teaching Assistant
Tammy is in her 10th year on the Co-Op staff and brings her energy and passion to multiple roles. She serves as an assistant teacher in our 3s class, supports the Lunch & Play program, teaches our French and Spanish Enrichment classes, and assists in other enrichment offerings. Tammy earned her Bachelor’s degree in French from St. Lawrence University. Both of her children are proud Co-Op alumni, and during their years at the school, she was an active and involved parent. Beyond the Co-Op, Tammy has contributed to the Ridgewood community as a Girl Scout leader, and class parent for many years. Tammy loves teaching at the Co-Op and helping children feel confident, curious, and cared for.
Camille Canone, 3s Teaching Assistant, School Nurse
Camille holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Sacred Heart University and spent 21 years as a Registered Nurse in Mother-Baby and Labor & Delivery. She has also served as a substitute nurse for the Ridgewood Public School system for several years. At the Co-Op, Camille brings her expertise and care to both heer position as an assistant teacher and as our school nurse. Camille lives in Ridgewood with her husband and four children. This is her 5th year as part of the Ridgewood Co-Op community, and she loves supporting the children, families, and staff at the Co-Op.
Stacey Lewis, 3s Teacher
Stacey is in her 7th year at the Co-Op. She earned her degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of Rhode Island and taught for seven years with the New York City Board of Education before joining the Co-Op. Stacey loves working with preschoolers, nurturing their curiosity, and watching them grow and learn each day. She brings enormous positivity, patience, and enthusiasm to every classroom experience. Stacey, her husband and their two children live in Washington Township.
Elaine Coleman, 3s Teaching Assistant
Elaine is in her 4th year at the Ridgewood Co-Op. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Management and Marketing from the University of Delaware and spent 16 years working in higher education before dedicating time to raising her two young sons. During those years, she was actively involved in volunteering at their schools and in the local community.
Elaine is excited to be part of the Co-Op family and loves supporting children as they explore, learn, and grow in the 3’s classroom.
Maryann Stoll, 3s Teaching Assistant
Maryann has been a valued member of the Co-Op community for over three years. Originally from Long Island, she moved to Ridgewood with her family, and both of her children are proud Co-Op alumni, carrying fond memories of their time here. After living in several other locations—including two years in the Netherlands—her family returned to the area in 2002. Having experienced the Co-Op from both a parent’s and staff member’s perspective, Maryann feels she has come full circle and is thrilled to continue contributing to the school she knows and loves.
MaryAnn Weston, 2s Teacher
MaryAnn Weston has studied at both Berkeley College and Fairleigh Dickenson University. She has two children and has been an active member of the Ridgewood Public School system for many years while also working as a volunteer at the Ridgewood Public Library. Her 14th year with the Co-Op, MaryAnn is the lead teacher for the 2s program in the Monday/Wednesday 2s class. She also works in our Extended Day Lunch & Play program and teaches several Enrichment classes. Mary Ann is adored by everyone for her warmth and compassion, and she lcherishes working with all of the children and being a part of their first preschool experience.
MJ Dotday, 4s Teaching Assistant
MJ is starting her 6th year at the Ridgewood Co-Op. She has been an active member of the Hawthorne school community, volunteering with children throughout her daughter’s formative years and developing a deep understanding of early childhood education. Over her years at the Co-Op, MJ has fallen in love with our students, bringing a caring, playful, and engaging approach to every classroom interaction. Her warmth and dedication make her a beloved part of the Co-Op family.
Daryl Sudol, 2s Teacher
Daryl is thrilled to join the Ridgewood Co-Op as the 2s teacher this year. With over 20 years of experience in early childhood education, she has worked with children ages 2–6 in a variety of roles, from Head Teacher to Assistant Director, bringing both expertise and heart to every classroom. Daryl holds an A.A.S. in Early Childhood Education from Bergen Community College and a B.A. in Elementary Education and Psychology from Felician University. She loves designing fun, hands-on activities that spark curiosity, with a special passion for creative arts and crafts. A proud Ridgewood resident, Daryl lives with her husband, two sons, and her playful Maltipoo, Pixie. She is excited to bring her creativity, energy, and love of learning to the Co-Op classroom.
Barbara Dickman, 2s Teaching Assistant
Barbara is happy to be celebrating her 4th year as part of the Ridgewood Co-Op family. She brings 18 years of experience as a preschool assistant teacher and a true passion for working with young children. Happily married, Barbara is the proud mother of four daughters and grandmother to six grandchildren. For Barbara there here is nothing that brings her more joy than being around children, watching them learn, and helping them grow. She says working at the Co-Op makes her a happier person and more positive in every way. Barbara’s kindness, compassion, and nurturing spirit shine through in every interaction, making her a cherished part of the Co-Op community.
Marlene Pillow, Music Teacher
Marlene has been the beloved Music Teacher at the Ridgewood Co-Op for 23 years, and her dedication has left a lasting impact on generations of students. Both of her children are proud Co-Op alumni, and she continues to share her love of music and the arts with our school community. A graduate of the Eastman School of Music with a degree in Voice and the New England Conservatory with a Master’s in Voice, Marlene brings exceptional talent, creativity, and passion to every class. She is also a cherished piano teacher in town and leads several drama programs for local elementary schools, inspiring young performers with her warmth and expertise. The Co-Op is incredibly fortunate to have Marlene as part of our family—her devotion, artistry, and love for children make her an irreplaceable presence in our school and the wider Ridgewood community.
Krystin Vecchione, Gym Teacher, Toddler & Me TeacherKrystin has been bringing her energy and expertise to the Co-Op for 6 years as our Gym Teacher and is in her 2nd year leading the Toddler & Me class. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Long Island University and has taught as both an Assistant Kindergarten Teacher and Head Preschool Teacher in Rockland County, NY, in addition to several years as a nanny. She draws on this rich teaching experience to create engaging, developmentally appropriate activities in her Toddler & Me classes. A lifelong athlete, Krystin also loves sharing her passion for movement and sports with the children, having coached basketball, softball, and soccer for multiple age groups. She helps the Co-Op kids build confidence, teamwork, and a love of physical activity. Krystin is also a proud mom of three children—two Co-Op graduates and one eagerly joining the class of 2026!
Katherine Gammer, Director
Katherine is in her 14th year as Director of the Ridgewood Co-Op. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing and Psychology from Penn State University and pursued graduate studies in Counseling Psychology at New York University.
Katherine’s connection to the Co-Op runs deep. All three of her children are proud alumni, and during their nine years at the school she was an active parent leader, serving as Fundraising Chairperson, Parent Advocate, and Class Parent. These experiences gave her a unique perspective that continues to shape her collaborative and family-centered approach to leadership today. With a passion for early childhood education and a commitment to fostering a nurturing and enriching school environment, Katherine is dedicated to supporting children, families, and teachers as they grow together within the Co-Op community.
Lauren Lewis, Assistant Director
Lauren is in her 7th year at the Co-Op. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Art from Penn State University and began her career in publishing and advertising before taking time off to raise her two daughters. During those 18 years, she stayed involved in education and community life through active roles in her local PTO. Lauren loves bringing her creativity and enthusiasm into the classrooms and she is excited to continue building strong connections with Co-Op families and their children.
Nicole Torielli, Head Teacher, Pre-K 4s Teacher
This is Nicole's 14th year teaching at the Co-Op, where she serves as our Head Teacher and leads one of our Pre-K 4s classes. She also brings her creativity and passion for learning to several of our Enrichment programs.
Nicole earned her Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and her Master’s in Special Education from Clemson University, followed by a Master’s in Supervision and Administration from Seton Hall University. Before joining the Co-Op, she taught 2nd grade, as well as 1st and 4th grades in Ridgewood’s Travell Elementary School. She has also shared her expertise as an Adjunct Professor at William Paterson University and as a University Supervisor, mentoring aspiring teachers in Elementary and Special Education. Beyond the classroom, Nicole is a proud mom of four children—all Co-Op graduates.
Dina Plavier, 4s Teaching Assistant
Dina is in her 4th year at the Ridgewood Co-Op and is thrilled to be part of the school community. After taking time away from work to raise her daughter—a senior in college—she returned to education, spending three years at Willard School. During that time, she also gave back to her community through active involvement in her daughter’s PTO and faith formation program. Dina has a natural gift for working with children and brings warmth, patience, and enthusiasm to the classroom. She is excited each year to get to know each child and their family.
Meredith Caulfield, Pre-K 4s Teacher
This is Meredith's 6th year at the Ridgewood Co-Op. She holds a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Delaware and a Master’s degree in Education from Fordham University. Over the years, Meredith has taught Pre-K, Kindergarten, and 2nd grade, bringing a wealth of experience to the classroom. An active volunteer in the Ridgewood schools, Meredith is passionate about supporting children during their earliest school experiences—helping them build confidence, curiosity, and a love of learning. She especially enjoys fostering a warm and nurturing environment where every child feels known and valued.
Leena Bansal, 4s Teaching Assistant
Leena is excited to join the Ridgewood Co-Op family this year as an assistant in the 4s classroom. She brings a diverse background, having worked in Marketing with companies such as PepsiCo before dedicating the past 17 years to raising her two children—a son, now a college sophomore, and a daughter, a high school senior. During those years, she stayed active in her children’s schools through parent organizations and community involvement. Leena holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from India and an MBA from Pittsburg State University. She has a warm and caring nature, loves working with children, and is looking forward to getting to know the Co-Op’s students and families.
Diana Mazza, Group Teacher, 3s Teacher
Diana has ben at the Ridgewood Co-Op for 17 years and loves being part of such a special community. She holds an A.A.S. in Early Childhood Education and has built a career around her passion for working with preschool-aged children.
At the Co-Op, Diana wears many hats—she is the Group Teacher for the school, the lead teacher in the 3-year-old class, teaches several Enrichment Programs, and supervises the Extended Day Lunch & Play Program. An experienced and dedicated teacher, Diana loves watching children discover new skills, make friends, and grow more confident each day.
Tammy McCarthy, 3s Teaching Assistant
Tammy is in her 10th year on the Co-Op staff and brings her energy and passion to multiple roles. She serves as an assistant teacher in our 3s class, supports the Lunch & Play program, teaches our French and Spanish Enrichment classes, and assists in other enrichment offerings. Tammy earned her Bachelor’s degree in French from St. Lawrence University. Both of her children are proud Co-Op alumni, and during their years at the school, she was an active and involved parent. Beyond the Co-Op, Tammy has contributed to the Ridgewood community as a Girl Scout leader, and class parent for many years. Tammy loves teaching at the Co-Op and helping children feel confident, curious, and cared for.
Camille Canone, 3s Teaching Assistant, School Nurse
Camille holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Sacred Heart University and spent 21 years as a Registered Nurse in Mother-Baby and Labor & Delivery. She has also served as a substitute nurse for the Ridgewood Public School system for several years. At the Co-Op, Camille brings her expertise and care to both heer position as an assistant teacher and as our school nurse. Camille lives in Ridgewood with her husband and four children. This is her 5th year as part of the Ridgewood Co-Op community, and she loves supporting the children, families, and staff at the Co-Op.
Stacey Lewis, 3s Teacher
Stacey is in her 7th year at the Co-Op. She earned her degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of Rhode Island and taught for seven years with the New York City Board of Education before joining the Co-Op. Stacey loves working with preschoolers, nurturing their curiosity, and watching them grow and learn each day. She brings enormous positivity, patience, and enthusiasm to every classroom experience. Stacey, her husband and their two children live in Washington Township.
Elaine Coleman, 3s Teaching Assistant
Elaine is in her 4th year at the Ridgewood Co-Op. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Management and Marketing from the University of Delaware and spent 16 years working in higher education before dedicating time to raising her two young sons. During those years, she was actively involved in volunteering at their schools and in the local community.
Elaine is excited to be part of the Co-Op family and loves supporting children as they explore, learn, and grow in the 3’s classroom.
Maryann Stoll, 3s Teaching Assistant
Maryann has been a valued member of the Co-Op community for over three years. Originally from Long Island, she moved to Ridgewood with her family, and both of her children are proud Co-Op alumni, carrying fond memories of their time here. After living in several other locations—including two years in the Netherlands—her family returned to the area in 2002. Having experienced the Co-Op from both a parent’s and staff member’s perspective, Maryann feels she has come full circle and is thrilled to continue contributing to the school she knows and loves.
MaryAnn Weston, 2s Teacher
MaryAnn Weston has studied at both Berkeley College and Fairleigh Dickenson University. She has two children and has been an active member of the Ridgewood Public School system for many years while also working as a volunteer at the Ridgewood Public Library. Her 14th year with the Co-Op, MaryAnn is the lead teacher for the 2s program in the Monday/Wednesday 2s class. She also works in our Extended Day Lunch & Play program and teaches several Enrichment classes. Mary Ann is adored by everyone for her warmth and compassion, and she lcherishes working with all of the children and being a part of their first preschool experience.
MJ Dotday, 4s Teaching Assistant
MJ is starting her 6th year at the Ridgewood Co-Op. She has been an active member of the Hawthorne school community, volunteering with children throughout her daughter’s formative years and developing a deep understanding of early childhood education. Over her years at the Co-Op, MJ has fallen in love with our students, bringing a caring, playful, and engaging approach to every classroom interaction. Her warmth and dedication make her a beloved part of the Co-Op family.
Daryl Sudol, 2s Teacher
Daryl is thrilled to join the Ridgewood Co-Op as the 2s teacher this year. With over 20 years of experience in early childhood education, she has worked with children ages 2–6 in a variety of roles, from Head Teacher to Assistant Director, bringing both expertise and heart to every classroom. Daryl holds an A.A.S. in Early Childhood Education from Bergen Community College and a B.A. in Elementary Education and Psychology from Felician University. She loves designing fun, hands-on activities that spark curiosity, with a special passion for creative arts and crafts. A proud Ridgewood resident, Daryl lives with her husband, two sons, and her playful Maltipoo, Pixie. She is excited to bring her creativity, energy, and love of learning to the Co-Op classroom.
Barbara Dickman, 2s Teaching Assistant
Barbara is happy to be celebrating her 4th year as part of the Ridgewood Co-Op family. She brings 18 years of experience as a preschool assistant teacher and a true passion for working with young children. Happily married, Barbara is the proud mother of four daughters and grandmother to six grandchildren. For Barbara there here is nothing that brings her more joy than being around children, watching them learn, and helping them grow. She says working at the Co-Op makes her a happier person and more positive in every way. Barbara’s kindness, compassion, and nurturing spirit shine through in every interaction, making her a cherished part of the Co-Op community.
Marlene Pillow, Music Teacher
Marlene has been the beloved Music Teacher at the Ridgewood Co-Op for 23 years, and her dedication has left a lasting impact on generations of students. Both of her children are proud Co-Op alumni, and she continues to share her love of music and the arts with our school community. A graduate of the Eastman School of Music with a degree in Voice and the New England Conservatory with a Master’s in Voice, Marlene brings exceptional talent, creativity, and passion to every class. She is also a cherished piano teacher in town and leads several drama programs for local elementary schools, inspiring young performers with her warmth and expertise. The Co-Op is incredibly fortunate to have Marlene as part of our family—her devotion, artistry, and love for children make her an irreplaceable presence in our school and the wider Ridgewood community.
Krystin Vecchione, Gym Teacher, Toddler & Me TeacherKrystin has been bringing her energy and expertise to the Co-Op for 6 years as our Gym Teacher and is in her 2nd year leading the Toddler & Me class. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Long Island University and has taught as both an Assistant Kindergarten Teacher and Head Preschool Teacher in Rockland County, NY, in addition to several years as a nanny. She draws on this rich teaching experience to create engaging, developmentally appropriate activities in her Toddler & Me classes. A lifelong athlete, Krystin also loves sharing her passion for movement and sports with the children, having coached basketball, softball, and soccer for multiple age groups. She helps the Co-Op kids build confidence, teamwork, and a love of physical activity. Krystin is also a proud mom of three children—two Co-Op graduates and one eagerly joining the class of 2026!