"Where confidence, creativity, curiosity, and character are built upon the foundation of God's love"

Child painting

Meet the Staff



Susan Bahlatzis
Susan Bahlatzis - Director


Susan has been the preschool Director and teacher of one of the 3's classes at Noah's Ark for the past fourteen years, and has a strong commitment to provide the best preschool experience possible for both child and parent. Mrs. Bahlatzis has a degree in Early Childhood Education and in Theology. She has been a guest speaker at various places, including Hudson Valley Community College, where she has spoken to the students in the Early Childhood Department on various topics concerning children and education. Mrs. Bahlatzis is also a member on the advisory board for the Early Childhood Dept. at Hudson Valley Community College. She has one grown son who works for GE, and one son in college.






Julie Litwin
Julie Litwin


Julie Litwin has been teaching at Noah's Ark for seven years, and was a substitute teacher for several years before that. She is a mother of two children, who have graduated from Noah's Ark. She is a gifted teacher, and is very enthusiastic and nurturing. Julie has both an Early Childhood degree as well as a Business degree. Julie's love of children is very obvious, even the most timid children warm right up to her!






Karen Greene
Karen Greene


Karen Greene has been with Noah's Ark for seven years. She has an Associate's in Early Childhood Education, and a Masters in Special Education. She brings to the teaching team her knowledge of child development and her great assessment skills. She has three children, two who are in junior high, and one who is presently attending Noah's Ark Preschool. She is well-liked by children and parents alike, who love her positive attitude and warmth.






Nancy Dailey
Nancy Dailey


Nancy Dailey has been teaching at Noah's Ark for thirteen years. She has her degree in Early Childhood Education. She is a mother of two and a grandmother of four, and loves teaching at Noah's Ark. She brings to our teaching team her knowledge and skill in teaching literacy and the love of reading, as well as her dedication to quality teaching.






Michelle Zawacki
Michelle Zawacki


Michelle Zawacki is a new member to our team this year. She is the wife of Pastor Andy Zawacki here at Light of the World Christian Church. She has degrees both in Early Childhood Education as well as Elementary Education, and comes to us with extensive teaching experiences. As the mother of nine year old triplets, Michelle has special patience with children and a real sensitivity towards parents.






Renee Gagnon
Renee Gagnon


Renee first became involved with the preschool ten years ago while she was attending SUNY Albany. She also served as a student teacher for us. Since that time, she has obtained her degrees in Early Education and Reading. She is a mother of two children and one is presently attending the preschool. Renee has excellent organizational skills and a real love for children of all backgrounds. She has worked in with children in a variety of settings, including inner-city schools, as well as short term mission trips to Haiti, Guatemala, Thailand and more.