Our Educators
Our experienced, EEC-certified educators bring exceptional training, dedication, and heart to our school. Many have been part of our community for 20, 30 years and beyond — teaching generations of families, including their own children and grandchildren. With advanced degrees, ongoing professional development, and CPR and First Aid training, our educators create the warm, nurturing environment that makes our school so special.
Learn More About Our Directors!
Barbara Sullivan – Executive Director
Barbara has served as Executive Director of ACNS since 1980, bringing decades of experience in education, counseling, and community leadership. She holds a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in Supervision and Counseling, with a professional background as a first-grade teacher, special education teacher, and school counselor.
A longtime Newton resident, Barbara has been deeply involved in the community throughout her career. She served for 10 years as Chair of the Newton Child Care Commission, as well as PTA President and YMCA Board Member, and helped found NECA and the Underwood After School Program. Her lifelong commitment to children, families, and early education continues to shape the welcoming community at the heart of ACNS.
Tasha Sullivan – Director
Tasha has been part of the ACNS community for more than 15 years, bringing experience in early childhood education, leadership, and a deep connection to the school. She holds a bachelor’s degree, is Director and Lead Teacher certified, and has completed advanced coursework in early childhood education, including coursework through Harvard Extension School. She is also an active member of NECA.
Her connection to ACNS extends beyond her role as Director — her children are proud ACNS graduates. She is dedicated to preserving the warmth and traditions that make ACNS special while continuing to strengthen its programs for today’s children and families.
Why Our Teachers Make the Difference
Teachers at ACNS are not just educators — they are guides, mentors, and partners in your child’s development. They foster curiosity, nurture creativity, and help children build the skills they’ll need long after preschool.
Many of our teachers have been with ACNS for years — some for decades — so families often find the same familiar faces greeting younger siblings. That continuity means teachers truly know each child and can sit on the floor to join a block-building project, comfort a child who misses home, and lead a small group in a science experiment — all in the same morning. It also means more time to observe each child closely and share meaningful updates with families.
Many of our educators have taught at ACNS for years, and some are former ACNS parents. That continuity creates a stable, familiar environment that young children thrive in and that families across Newton, Waltham, and Wellesley trust.
Qualifications & Professional Growth
Every lead teacher at ACNS meets the standards of the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (EEC). Beyond certification, our team:
- Participates in ongoing professional development in early childhood education
- Stays current on best practices in play-based learning and social-emotional development
- Maintains health and safety training required by the state
- Collaborates weekly to plan curriculum and share observations
- Connects with the Newton early childhood community through local associations
Partnering With Families
Our educators see parents as partners. Through daily conversations at drop-off and pickup, parent breakfasts, coffee with the directors, and family events like Literacy Month, teachers and families work together to support each child. Learn more about our philosophy on the Our Philosophy page, or see how our flexible daycare keeps children with familiar teachers all day.
How Our Teachers Support Every Learner
Every child grows on their own timeline. Our teachers observe closely, notice when a child needs a new challenge or extra support, and adapt activities accordingly. A child who loves building might be invited to draw a plan for a block tower; a child who is still finding their voice might be paired with a gentle friend for a small-group game. Teachers share these observations with families so home and school can work together.
This individualized attention is possible because every ACNS classroom has Massachusetts EEC-certified teachers — a key reason families from Newton, Weston, and Needham choose us.
Safety and Care
Our educators are trained in the health and safety practices required by the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care. Classrooms are allergy-aware, supervision is constant, and teachers follow clear routines for arrival, handwashing, snack, outdoor play, and dismissal. Families can feel confident that their children are safe, well cared for, and happy.
Meet Our Teachers in Person
The best way to get to know our educators is to visit. Request a tour and see our classrooms in action.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many teachers are in each classroom?
Every classroom is staffed by Massachusetts EEC-certified teachers.
Who leads ACNS?
Executive Director Barbara Sullivan (since 1980) and Director Tasha Sullivan (since 2011).
Are your teachers certified?
Yes, our teachers are certified through the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care.
Can I meet teachers before enrolling?
Absolutely — request a tour to visit classrooms and meet the team.
Do the same teachers provide flexible daycare?
Afternoon and morning care are provided by ACNS staff in our own building, so children stay with familiar faces.
How long have your teachers been at ACNS?
Many of our educators have been with ACNS for years, creating a stable, familiar environment for children.
Contact Us
We would love to meet your family. Call, email, or send us a note to request a tour of our Auburndale classrooms, ask about openings, or learn more about preschool, Pre-K, and flexible daycare in Newton, MA.
- 230 Central Street, Newton, MA 02466
- (617) 527-0723
- info@acnsnewton.org
- Preschool 9:00am–12:00pm, Mon–Fri · Flex childcare 8:00am–9:00am and 12:00pm–5:30pm