Founder & President
Christina Houri
I come from an international background. My high school years were spent at the “Lycée Français de New York”. After graduation, I attended “The Fashion Institute of Technology” in New York City. I worked as a fashion designer intern with Givenchy in Paris. Upon my return to New York, I got a job as a buyer for a few years. Then by a twist of fate, I was hired as an Assistant Teacher at “Le Jardin à l’Ouest”, a French- American preschool, with a Bank Street philosophy on the Upper West Side of Manhattan.
There, I realized that I have a natural ability and a passion for teaching children. I developed an interest in education, which led me to take classes at “Bank Street College”. After two years of teaching at “Le Jardin à L’Ouest”, I decided to take the Montessori training program, which was an enlightening experience. I then taught at “Riverside Early Learning”, a Montessori-based center in New York City.
Afterwards, I decided to return to the corporate world. But I couldn't get my teaching experience out of my mind, it was so fulfilling. So I pursued my dream and opened “Le Petit Paradis” Preschool. I realized that I was never as gratified as when I was a teacher and that my purpose really lies in making a difference in children’s lives. Having learned languages at an early age, I know that giving children the opportunity to learn a second language is an occasion parents should not miss. That is why I incorporated French into the preschool program.
My goal is to create a cozy, relaxed environment where teachers are approachable and where parents can communicate with ease. I understand the important step it is for parents to choose someone other than themselves to take care of their child. I hope that children will benefit from our program, and that it will give them the foundation to become confident and fulfilled adults.
Le Petit Paradis Corp, Preschool
Tel/Fax (212) 410-0180 www.lepetitparadispreschool.com
EnglishTeacher
Chrysie Koch
For as long as I can remember I have always wanted to be a teacher. My passion for educating started during my teenage years, when I held various jobs that involved working with young children. It is that passion that helped me to achieve a degree in Early Childhood Education. I graduated from The State University of New York at Cortland.
I was lucky enough to land my first teaching position at a bilingual preschool. My responsibilities included teaching English lessons and working closely with the Mandarin teacher. It was there that I learned how important it was to acknowledge other cultures and learned valuable tools for teaching in a bilingual setting.
I am delighted to be a part of Le Petit Paradis Preschool and I am confident that my teaching experience and style will provide a productive and enjoyable learning environment. I recognize that the preschool years play a significant role in a child’s development and I am excited to instill my students with a love of learning that will last a life time.
Le Petit Paradis Corp, Preschool 1656 Third Avenue
Tel/Fax (212) 410-0180 www.lepetitparadispreschool.com
French Teacher
Daniel Villeneuve
I am a native French speaker from Quebec City. I am married and a father to a 4 year old bilingual little girl.
Throughout my professional career as a visual artist and musician, I was a French tutor to children and adults. My teaching experiences and fatherhood inspired me to complete a Child Development Associates Certificate with Bank Street Teachers’ College.
Most recently, I was a substitute and an assistant teacher for the Bank Street Head Start preschool program in New York City, which is recognized as the national model for programs throughout the United States.
I regularly incorporate songs, music, drawing and building with light materials into my teaching method. I strive to develop in children the French communication skills they need to express their ideas and work through their challenges. The confidence I have in children’s capabilities empowers them, as well as creates a safe and motivating learning environment.
Le Petit Paradis Corp, Preschool 1656 Third Avenue
Tel/Fax (212) 410-0180 www.lepetitparadispreschool.com
