Kasey Tuttle, Preschool Director
Hello. My name is Kasey Tuttle and I joined the YMCA team in March of 2022 as the Preschool Director. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from The College of New Jersey in 1999 and have been working with young children ever since! I have taught children from Toddlers through Kindergarten and moved into a preschool director position in 2009.
Young children are curious about the world around them and make exciting discoveries each day. The most rewarding part of working with young children is when they invite you to experience that amazement with them and allow you to see the world through the eyes of a child!
Jennifer Lugo, Family Worker
Hello, my name is Jennifer Lugo and I'm the Family Worker at the Cumberland Cape Atlantic YMCA Preschool. I have 11 years of experience and love what I do. As a Family Worker, I provide family visits and Family nights to our parents. Confidentiality with parents and caregivers is very important to me when building relationships with our families. My office is always open, even if it's just to stop by and say hello.
Nicole DeSant, Yellow Room
Hi, my name is Nicole DeSant, or as the kids call me, “Ms. Cole”. I have taught in the Yellow Room fsince 2004. I graduated from Rowan University and I am certified to teach preschool through grade 8. I have taught many grades, but this is where I belong. I love teaching the youngest of learners and I find each day more rewarding. This is truly my second family. I have had many siblings and family members of my earliest students pass through my doors. In the Yellow Room, I pride myself on treating your child as my own. The doors of communication between home and teacher are always open.
My favorite thing to do as a teacher of preschoolers is to listen to their stories and experiences. I love talking with them every day. Each day brings something new. Being a preschool teacher, in my opinion, is the best job in the world. I can’t wait to meet our newest Yellow Room family members.
Avoneii Downing, Blue Room
Hello! My name is Avoneii Downing and I am the assistant teacher for the Blue Room. I have been with the YMCA Preschool since the Spring of 2023, and I have loved every minute of it. I have my Associate Degree in psychology and I am currently pursuing my bachelor’s degree in the same field through Rowan University (Go Profs!). Growing up, I was always surrounded by younger family members and I have a younger brother at home who I love to spoil as well. I also have a background in tutoring and summer camp. I look forward to nurturing your child’s mind, watching them play, and to helping them have a great preschool experience!
Kelly Duffy, Red Room
Hi, I’m Ms. Kelly. I grew up in Deptford, NJ. I have been teaching at the CCAYMCA Preschool since 2004. I received my Bachelor of Arts Degree from Rowan University in Elementary Education. I also attended Montclair University and obtained my Preschool Certification.
I knew I wanted to be a teacher as a very young girl. For the parents letting go of their little ones for the first time, be assured they will be taken care of and loved in my Preschool classroom. This school year will be FILLED with fun, LOTS of learning, and new adventures.
Gina Brown, Red Room
I’m Miss Gina. I have lived in Vineland my whole life. I have worked at the YMCA since 2018 in the Red Room. I have 11 years of experience ranging from toddlers to first grade. I graduated from Cumberland County College with an AAS in Early Childhood Education and a Liberal Arts degree with a Child Advocacy Certification from Wilmington University. I enjoy teaching preschool and guiding the children as they develop and grow.
Edith Perez, Green Room
Hi I’m Ms. Edith the teacher assistant in the Green room. I have worked at the YMCA since 2016 as a before and after school coordinator for a Buena school site. I joined the YMCA Preschool in 2023. I have gained so much experience in working with different age groups. I graduated from Cumberland County College with my Associates degree in Elementary Education. I speak both Spanish and English. Having the opportunity to speak two languages helps me communicate with children that are only Spanish speaking and learning English as their second language. I have always had a passion for working with children. I enjoy seeing how much they grow throughout the school year. It’s a pleasure to have the opportunity to be a part of the YMCA preschool family and be a part of your child’s educational growth.