Our Staff
Our passionate and talented staff is dedicated to providing an unforgettable learning experience for your child. You will not be disappointed!
Marialaina Sheehan Preschool Director
I joined Abiding Presence Preschool as the Toddler Teacher in 2021. My teaching career began back in 2015. I received my Bachelors Degree from Queens College and my Masters Degree at LIU Post. I am certified in ages birth to grade 6 in both general and special education.
As Director I oversee and supervise all aspects of daily activities. I look forward to welcoming you to join our Abiding Presence Family.
Abiding Presence happily follows all Office of Family and Child Services( OCFS) and State Regulations to keep our students safe.
I feel blessed to be the Director of a very nurturing and successful preschool with highly qualified staff. Our faculty, and every inch of our classrooms are devoted to just one thing - providing the best start to a lifetime of learning! Benjamin Franklin once said, “Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn.” Abiding Presence Preschool is a beautiful place to grow.
Milagros Santiago Phd. Teacher
“Ms. Mili”
I have a doctorate degree in Clinical and School Psychology from Adelphi University. I have been working in early intervention and the preschool level since 1990. I believe in learning through play. Each child is unique and they learn at different rates. My approach is to meet them where they are and adjust the lessons for them. Working with toddlers has been a rewarding experience for me!
Vanessa Bermudez Teacher
“Ms. Vanessa”
I am thrilled to join the team of educators at Abiding Presence Preschool. It felt like a natural fit from the first day I walked in and I hope you experience that same feeling. I have my Master’s in School Counseling but being a stay at home mom (or as I like to call it- domestic engineer) gave me all the experience and patience that my degree could never have provided. Using my creativity to make topics fun and providing a safe and nurturing environment are just some of my specialties. I can’t wait to share my enthusiasm and love of learning with your children!
Laura DiSalvio
Teacher “Ms. Laura”
I have a Masters Degree in Education. I began teaching in 2008.I love working with children. The best part of my day is when I see their smiling faces in the morning, excited to come to school. My work at Abiding Presence began as a Teacher Assistant in the Toddler room. I was happy to be back in the classroom after taking time to be home with my own children. Once in, I quickly added hours as I had so much joy working with the children. Shortly after joining the Toddler class, I became Lead Teacher enjoying every minute here.
Keri Cohen
Teacher
“Ms. Keri”
Working with children has been an incredibly rewarding experience. Over my 13 years of teaching PreK, I’ve had the privilege of watching children take their first steps in learning. I graduated with a BA from SUNY Buffalo and earned a CDA in Preschool Education. My goal as a teacher is to create a space where every child feels loved, inspired, and eager to learn.
Sharon Desmond Teacher Assistant “Ms. Sharon”
I began working at Abiding Presence Preschool in 2008! It is very special to be able to work at the preschool I attended when I was small! I married my high school sweetheart and we have a son and a daughter. We enjoy family vacations upstate in the mountains. I love to paint, draw and take pictures of the sunset. I am so happy to utilize these skills in the classroom with my students. Throughout my time here, I have worked in every classroom both as a Teacher and a Teacher Assistant. I also worked with the school age children in our After Care Program. I absolutely love my job with the children at Abiding Presence Preschool!
Gabby Cayamcela Teacher Assistant
“Ms. Gabby”
I first came to Abiding Presence as a mom. My son loved the Teachers and the program at Abiding Presence. I was happy to join this team of exceptional teachers. Working with the Toddler class and substituting in the preschool has been very rewarding. The best part of my day is seeing the children enter, running in to give me a hug!
Janet Hoppenhauer Teacher Assistant
“Ms. Janet”
I’m so happy to be a part of the Abiding Presence family. Prior to joining this incredible team, I graduated from Binghamton University before setting out to travel the world as a Flight Attendant. Since my favorite passengers were the smallest ones, I’m so grateful to be working with the children here. Their sweet, smiling faces can brighten any day! My husband and I have two amazing kids and we love raising them in this beautiful community.
Heather Desmond
Teacher Assistant “Ms. Heather”
I began working at Abiding Presence Preschool in 2021. Abiding Presence has always felt like home to me. I attended preschool here myself and belong to the church as well. Working with children has brought me so much happiness and has taught me so much about myself. Their smiles and laughter bring so much light into my life. I always strive to make sure each child feels heard, comfortable, happy, safe, and loved. I am so thankful to have the opportunity to be apart of their lives.
Meaghan Bishop
Substitute Teacher
Hi, I’m Meaghan Bishop, and I’m passionate about working with children! I am a local community mom raising my own three kids (ages 6, 4, and 2). I’ve gained firsthand insight into the joys and challenges of early childhood development. I hold a bachelor’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders with a minor in Special Education. In the past few years I’ve worked as a graphic designer and supervisor. These roles helped me develop organization, leadership, and problem-solving skills that I use to create a nurturing, well-managed learning environment. I’m thrilled to bring my energy, creativity, and experience to your child’s early learning journey!
