Monday - Friday
9:15am - 12:00pm
Our Philosophy
At Gan Yeladim at CBY we believe that children foster growth through play. It is our job to extract the wants, needs and interests of your children to ensure their growth; physically, socially/emotionally and academically. With a child-led, play-based program in place, your child will have the opportunity in and out of the classroom to learn and thrive.
Meet Our Staff
Samantha Engle-Ettenson
Director of Gan Yeladim & 2’s Lead Teacher
An Armonk native and CBY Alumni herself, Samantha is passionately pioneering this new Early Childhood Program. Initially a concept in the fall of 2023, to the Inaugural 2’s Class beginning in the fall of 2024, Samantha is driven about supporting children and their families during these crucial developmental years. She enjoys watching her young learners socialize and develop both academically and emotionally. She thrives in her ‘happy place’ classroom environment while simultaneously working with current and prospective families to build and grow her vision for Gan Yeladim. Samantha lives in Katonah with her husband Dan, daughter Savannah and dog Toby.
Prior to teaching, Samantha studied education, child development and psychology at Mercy College, where she earned a BA in Behavioral Sciences. Samantha has over ten years of child care family experience and looks forward to guiding and growing with you and your families.
Myriam Gallego
2’s Assistant
Originally from Ecuador, Myriam moved to the United States 19 years ago where she studied English and Education. Previously working in secretarial, cosmetology and child care fields, she loves working with people and now, young children. Through her experience working with local families in Armonk, Myriam has been met with beautiful experiences through the eyes and hearts of young children. She enjoys being a part of the Gan Yeladim Team and loves every minute being in the classroom with your kids. She currently resides in Valhalla with her husband Xavier and daughter Scarlett.
Jen Shaw
2’s Assistant
Beginning her journey South Florida, Jen obtained her degrees in Accounting from Florida State University. It wasn’t until she moved from Florida to NYC, met her husband and began raising her family that she re-discoveded a childhood passion of working with children. After having her second son, Jen began substituting at her children’s nursery school, and later, took on the role of co-teaching an enrichment art class for 3-4 year olds. In addition to working with 3-4 year olds, Jen has experience assisting in the 2’s and toddler rooms. Jen’s love of engaging, nurturing and teaching young children led her to CBY and to Gan Yeladim. Working with your children in this new program brings such joy and happiness each day. It is a treasured time watching and encouraging young children as they grow into the best versions of themselves. Jen resides in Armonk with her husband Rob and two sons, Wyatt and Levi.
