Our Mission
Our mission at The Kinder Garden Preschool is to provide hands-on opportunities for learning and skill development through nature-based inquiry and outdoor exploration to develop a lasting appreciation for the natural world.
Our Staff
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Mary Kingsley
Director
Mary is the director and offers over 40 years of teaching experience. She holds both a Bachelors and Masters in Education, as well as Certification as an Environmental Educator. Her love of teaching and being outdoors led to pursuing her dream of opening a nature-based preschool.
Mary opened The Kinder Garden Preschool, Inc. in 2013, with her sister Kate Kingsley.
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Kate Kingsley
Lead Teacher and Curriculum Specialist
Kate is the Assistant Director and Lead Teacher. She holds a degree in Early Childhood Education and is Reggio Emilia trained. She holds over 45 years of teaching experience and a strong background in science and mathematics. Kate has begun the exciting adventure of earning her Environmental Education Certification.
Kate started The Kinder Garden Preschool with Mary in 2013.
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Elliana Creech-Thomas
Lead Teacher – TK
Elliana is a passionate and detail-oriented educator with six years of experience in both museum and nature-based classrooms. She believes the best learning happens outdoors, where curiosity and discovery come naturally. Elliana most recently taught at the Smithsonian Early Enrichment Center in Washington D.C., where learning largely happened outside of the classroom in the museums and community. She holds a B.S. in Early Childhood Education. Outside of school, she enjoys hiking, reading, and traveling with her daughter, wife, and pup.
Elliana has been with The Kinder Garden for 2 years
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Tanina Benali
Lead Teacher
With a bachelor’s in French literature from University of Algiers and certified Montessori education and over a decade of experience in Montessori and French bilingual schools, Mrs Tanina is a passionate preschool teacher dedicated to fostering young children’s growth. After spending 13 years in New Jersey, she moved to Raleigh, bringing her expertise in creating nurturing, child-centered learning environments.
As a Montessori-certified educator and mother of three, she understands the importance of cultivating a supportive space where children feel encouraged to explore and develop their unique talents. Her experience includes working as a lead teacher in bilingual programs, where she contributed to dynamic, inclusive curriculums that respect each child’s individuality. Outside of the classroom., Mrs. Tanina enjoys cooking and spending quality time with her three kids. Her commitment to education is matched by the love for creating a warm, joyful atmosphere at home and at school, where every child can flourish.
Tanina has been with The Kinder Garden for 3 years.
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Victoria Norena
Lead Teacher
Victoria is a proud mom of two children, and a domestic zoo keeper of dogs, cats, frogs and fish. When Victoria is not outside in her garden or observing bugs with her resident bug expert (her son) she loves to crochet and listen to audiobooks. Victoria has a bachelors in science and technologies, CPR and basic first aid certification. Victoria believes all things need a little dirt, water, sunshine and love to grow including tiny humans.
Victoria has been teaching with The Kinder Garden Preschool for 3 years.
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Marisol Tapia
Lead TK Teacher
Marisol is from Puebla, Mexico. She moved to the United States when she was five years old and has lived in Wake Forest, North Carolina ever since. Coming from a big family, she has been working with children professionally since high school, gaining experience through volunteering at daycares, completing internships, babysitting, and many other related activities. In addition to her passion for working with children, she also enjoys cooking and works at a restaurant. She recently graduated from Wake Tech with an Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education. Marisol believes that children learn best through play and open ended exploration.
Marisol has been working with The Kinder Garden for 3 years.