Our Team
Meet the 10th Street Team
Each educator at Big and Tiny has outstanding experience, degrees in early childhood education, and a commitment to ongoing professional development. Above all, a passion for education and desire to make a difference in each child’s learning journey and life.
Lacie Newlin
Education Director
Lacie Newlin is the Educational Director here at Big and Tiny NYC. Originally from Indiana, Lacie received her B.S. from Purdue University before moving to Chicago to pursue her Masters Degree in Child Development at Erikson Institute. She has been privileged to work in Early Childhood Education for twenty years and continues to be fascinated by young children’s genuine curiosity. In her spare time she loves camping with her basset hound, Norman and spending time with her family.
Jessica Stromberg
Assistant Educational Director
Jessica holds a Bachelor’s degree in early childhood development from CSULB and has been working with young children for over 15 years. She is passionate about early childhood education and has developed robust strategies to best foster children’s growth. She is committed to creating a safe and nurturing space for children as well as ensuring that all families in our community are taken care of.
Heather Carle
Educator & Parent Program Director
Heather wears many hats here at school as our Parent Program Director, Community Coordinator and Atelierista.
Heather brings our families together through our multitude of events and integrates the arts into our daily curriculum. She joined the 10th Street family in 2011 as a mother and then a teacher in 2016.
Oshena Payton
Educator - Little School
Our Little School teacher for the last four years, Oshena is a dedicated educator with endless patience, presence and fun for our littlest learners and their families.
Jimena La Motta
Educator - Little School
Jimena is originally from Spain. She holds a bachelors degree in Journalism as well as Theatre and Acting major from the Complutense University in Madrid, Spain. After working as a professional actress for many years, she moved to LA where her career in early childhood education started. Jimena joined Big and Tiny 3 years ago as a Spanish teacher. She brought creativity and a new way of teaching Spanish to the little ones. Jimena is a very talented artist and illustrator and loves designing animations outside of work.
Jordan Andrade
Educator - Pre-Kindergarden
Jordan has been a friend of 10th Street for many years, and this year we are very pleased to have her as our Pre-K teacher.
Jordan has taught and directed both preschool and elementary classrooms and brings a wealth of experience and joy to our children and families.
Kimberly Platero
Educator - Preschool
My name is Kimberly Platero and I have been working with young children for over 10 years. I have earned my Bachelor's degree in Child Development as well as a credential in multiple subjects. I find it a tremendous joy teaching children and hope to provide a positive long lasting impact on the lives of all my students. I love creating an environment where children have the opportunity to thrive through both learning and play as well as feel seen, supported and excited to learn
Phyl Johnson
Educator - Floater
Phyl has over a decade of experience contributing to the growth and development of children through a diverse and impressive list of roles.
Phyl brings a deep love and appreciation for adventure, nature and art to our students.
Maurisha Jones
Educator - Floater
Moe’s passion for working with young children comes with her appreciation that every day feels new, exciting and full of wonder. She enjoys helping children navigate new experiences and acquire new life skills
Erin Bloom
Director of Marketing & Partnerships
Erin brings years of marketing, editorial, and management experience to the team. As a fellow mom of a toddler, Erin is thrilled to be a part of this wonderful community that supports the entire family.
