Honoring Our Educators: Teacher Appreciation Week at Academic Explorers

This week at Academic Explorers, we proudly celebrated Teacher Appreciation Week—a special time to recognize the dedication, heart, and talent of the educators who care for and teach our children every day. Whether your child is enrolled in our infant program, toddler classroom, preschool, UPK, pre-k, or after-school program, their learning journey is shaped by the compassion and creativity of our incredible teaching team.

Why Teacher Appreciation Week Matters

Teachers are the heart of our early childhood education centers. From the moment they welcome children at drop-off to the time they send them home full of stories, they are creating meaningful experiences that build confidence, curiosity, and a love of learning.

In our classrooms—from infants to pre-k and beyond—our educators go above and beyond. They design fun, hands-on learning activities, meet the needs of every child, and foster an environment where all children feel safe, supported, and celebrated.

Families + Teachers = A Powerful Partnership

We know that great care doesn’t happen in a vacuum. It takes strong relationships between families and teachers to help every child thrive. That’s why Teacher Appreciation Week isn’t just a celebration for staff. It’s also an opportunity for parents to reflect on the value of the educators in their child’s life. Your kind words, notes, and small gestures of appreciation this week made a big impact. Thank you for partnering with us to show our team how loved they are.

Spotlighting Our Teachers

To close out the week, we’ll be spotlighting a teacher from each location—Roosevelt, Merrick, Uniondale, and Old Westbury—who have gone above and beyond in their roles.

Whether it’s building strong bonds with toddlers, leading engaging preschool activities, supporting after-school homework time, or helping our UPK students prepare for kindergarten, these team members exemplify the excellence and care Academic Explorers is known for.

Their spotlights are shared below—be sure to read and leave them a kind comment!

Ms. Quoijah "Ms. Q"

Assistant Teacher

Academic Explorers LLC (Roosevelt)

Our Roosevelt location is always busy, bustling, and in need of helping hands. Since starting her role as Assistant Teacher, Ms. Q has been reliable and dependable.

She has proven to be flexible and help out in whatever classroom needs her the most.

Her positive attitude and willingness to jump in wherever she’s needed have made her an essential part of the team. We are so grateful to have Ms. Q supporting our Roosevelt families and staff each day.

"My grandson attends the Roosevelt location. I love this program and would recommend to anyone in need of childcare."

-Sheila B.

Ms. Carmen

Assistant Teacher

Academic Explorers of NY (old Westbury)

As we continue to grow at our newest location on the campus of SUNY Old Westbury, Ms. Carmen makes sure all the new babies in her class have the individual attention that they need whenever they need it.

Although they may be little, babies have such big demands and Ms. Carmen selflessly meets them all in a seemingly effortless way. Ms. Carmen helps build the trust and confidence parents have in our program.

"Ms. Stephanie and all her staff are so welcoming and nurturing. They have made my son and myself feel included and comfortable throughout the whole transition."

-Samantha C.

Ms. Alyssa

Lead Teacher

Academic Explorers of Merrick LLC

Ms. Alyssa has been a loyal member of our Merrick team for four years. Her dedication to her students and families in the infant class never goes unnoticed.

Whenever administration is juggling tasks and needs help with tours for new parents interested in enrollment, Ms. Alyssa steps up and leads program tours with excellence.

"The infants classroom has two primary [Caregivers] and both are nothing short of perfection - the ladies that open the doors greet my son, child and parent in such a warming way! I love having somewhere my son is happy going into and leaving."

-Kelly B.

Mr. Jadean

After School Leader

Academic Explorers of Uniondale LLC

As part of our effort to re-energize our school-age program and create a more structured, purposeful environment in our after-school class, we brought on Mr. Jadean, and he has exceeded expectations.

His approach strikes the perfect balance between fun and focus: the children enjoy engaging activities, while also completing their homework and following classroom expectations.

"I must say the staff is really attentive and genuinely cares about my children. The director is always willing to assist and resolve any issues or make accommodations as needed. My daughter genuinely loves her teacher and cares so much for her."

-Peta L.

At Academic Explorers, every teacher plays a vital role in shaping the hearts and minds of the children we care for. Whether you're rocking an infant to sleep, guiding a curious preschooler through a new activity, or supporting a school-age child with their homework, your dedication does not go unnoticed. This week—and every week—we thank you for your patience, passion, and the love you pour into your work. You are the reason our programs thrive, and we are truly grateful for each and every one of you.

Looking for Quality Child Care in Roosevelt, Merrick, Uniondale, or Old Westbury?

Whether you’re searching for infant care, toddler programs, preschool, pre-k, or after-school child care, our passionate educators are here to support your family every step of the way. Schedule a tour with Academic Explorers and see the difference our teachers make every day.

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