Our Teachers

THERESE RAGGHIANTI, Head Teacher/Director. Therese graduated from Brooklyn College with a Masters in Education in 1998. Her undergraduate studies were in Fashion Design and Merchandising from the American College for the Applied Arts in Atlanta and London. Therese began teaching at Old First in 1997 as an assistant. After several years as Head Teacher/Director, she left to have her own preschooler and returned as a parent. During that time she stayed on as Educational Director and then Educational Consultant. Therese believes that important life skills are being taught every day in preschool and is excited to be part of that process. Making learning fun while fostering self-esteem is one of her primary goals. She accomplishes this through song, dance, play and playdough. During her spare time, Therese enjoys sewing and playing the Alfaia with a Brazilian marching band.

NICOLE WILLIAMS, Assistant Teacher. Nicole is thrilled to be a part of the OFNS school community. Nicole was a primary school teacher in Connecticut for many years before moving to Brooklyn. She enjoys cultivating children’s curiosity and engaging young minds. She earned her BA in English and loves to introduce children to creative literature. She is passionate about supporting child development through engaging play and supporting individuality and creativity. During her free time, Nicole loves running, traveling, skiing with her family and the start of baseball season!