Leah Rizzo
Founder & Lead Educator
Leah is a New York State–certified educator with over 15 years of experience supporting students across New York City, Westchester, and the Hudson Valley. She spent much of her career at VOICE Charter School in Long Island City, where she joined in its early years and helped grow the school into a full K–8 program.
She holds dual certification in Childhood Education (Birth–Grade 2 and Grades 1–6), a Special Education certification, and a Master’s degree in English. Leah has taught across multiple grade levels in general education and ICT classrooms and has served as a Special Education Teacher, SETSS provider, interventionist, and Special Education Coordinator.
Her passion is working with struggling learners—helping them build confidence, strengthen foundational skills, and see themselves as capable, successful students. A mom of two young children and a Yorktown resident since 2020, Leah values thoughtful, trusting partnerships with families and understands firsthand the importance of finding the right support for every child.
Outside of the kindroot house, Leah is a busy mom who loves spending time with her family, cooking meals together, and squeezing in a run or workout whenever she can (she’s even completed the NYC Marathon). She enjoys reading, crafting, and traveling with her kids—especially summers in Long Beach Island and visits to family in Denver. Both at home and in her work with children, Leah brings warmth, balance, and a deep appreciation for meaningful everyday moments.
Daniella Filippone
Educator
Daniella is an undergraduate student at Pace University, where she is studying Childhood Education and Special Education with a concentration in English through the Dyson College of Arts and Sciences and School of Education.
She brings meaningful, hands-on experience supporting learners of all ages. Daniella completed an internship in a 2nd & 3rd grade special education classroom at Mohansic Elementary School, assisting with individualized instruction and classroom support. She also worked at the Pied Piper After School Program, supporting children from Pre-K through 5th grade with homework, academic skill-building, and daily routines.
Daniella is excited to work with children, support their learning, and continue growing as an educator in a warm, encouraging environment.
Natalie Muscolino
Educator
Natalie is an enthusiastic and dedicated educator currently completing her Accelerated Master’s Program in Teaching Students with Disabilities at Pace University. She is set to graduate this May 2026. She previously earned her Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood and Childhood Education, building a strong foundation in child development and instructional practice.
She brings years of hands‑on experience working with children of all ages—as a caregiver, substitute teacher, and student teacher across multiple local school districts. Her fieldwork spans Pre‑K through fifth grade, giving her a deep understanding of how students grow, learn, and thrive at every stage.
Natalie is passionate about helping students build confidence, discover their strengths, and reach their full potential both inside and outside the classroom. She has worked with learners of all abilities and is committed to creating supportive, engaging, and empowering learning experiences that help every child shine.
In her free time, she loves reading, crafting, and getting to the beach whenever she can. One of her favorite pastimes is baking with her mom and experimenting with new recipes. Natalie loves to spend time with family and make memories whenever she can.
