WE LOVE OUR SCHOOL FAMILY
We are proud to introduce the most diligent, passionate, and excited team of shining stars in Essex County! Our family of committed educators will quickly become a second family to you and your loved ones!
Our method for bringing in and keeping our teacher is simple: if we foster a supportive workplace to learn, trains, and access tools and resources, then our teachers can focus on bringing their teaching talents fully into the classroom every single day.
Miss Kassie got her start in Early Childhood Education at a young age, when her parents took over the Orchard School. She grew up in West Caldwell, and after graduating from JCHS, she went on to get her M.A. from the University of Chicago and her B.A. from Emory University, where she studied Humanities— including Art, Literature, History, and Race and Ethnic Studies—and Community Building.
As an Orchard School leader, she works to ensure her students are having the best experience while striving to build a community space where young kids can grow, explore, and thrive, and build the skills, knowledge, confidence, and relationships that can support them for a lifetime.
Mr. PK and Mrs. Tracie have owned and operated the Orchard School since 2004.
Throughout her life and career, Mrs. Tracie has been dedicated to supporting and bettering the lives of children. With her background in social work, she began the Orchard School with the dream of creating a welcoming and creative place where kids can learn and express themselves and their emotions.
While Mrs. Tracie works behind the scenes, Mr. PK is part of the Orchard School’s day-to-day operations, spending time with the students as one of our fun, afternoon closing teachers.
Miss Kassie received her M.A. from the University of Chicago and her B.A. from Emory University, where she studied Humanities— including Art, Literature, History, and Race and Ethnic Studies—and Community Building.
As an Orchard School leader, she works to ensure her students are having the best experience while striving to build a community space where young kids can grow, explore, and thrive, and build the skills, knowledge, confidence, and relationships that can support them for a lifetime.
When she’s not at Orchard, Miss Kassie loves to read and write, make art, spend time outside, and think up new ways to make the Orchard School an even better place!
Hello!
My name is Suri Garcia and I am thrilled to be a part of The Orchard School as a floater teacher!
I hold a BA in Psychology and have extensive experience in early childhood education, including roles as a babysitter and camp counselor.
My passion lies in fostering a nurturing and engaging environment for children, where they can explore, learn, and grow. I look forward to contributing to the vibrant community here at The Orchard School and supporting our little learners every step of the way.
I love to spend my free time exploring the great outdoors. Whether it’s hiking through scenic trails or simply taking a stroll in the park, I find nature to be incredibly rejuvenating.