Our Staff is the Heart of Pittsford Nursery School
We are proud of the remarkable team here at Pittsford Nursery School. Our director and lead teachers have more than 50 years of combined experience working in early childhood education. We prioritize ensuring that each of our students has a positive first schooling experience.
We are happy to work with your family to assess the best placement for your child. Depending on your child’s age, previous school experience, and personality, one or more of our classes may be open to them.
Staff are certified in CPR, First Aid and AED, as well as allergy protocols and procedures.
Kathy Woodruff, Director
Kathy graduated from the State University of New York at Oswego with her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education (PreK-6) in 2003. She received her Master of Science of Education in Literacy (Birth-12) from the State University of New York at Geneseo in 2007. Kathy holds New York State Certification in Elementary Education PreK-6.
Her professional background includes over eighteen years’ experience in the early childhood setting. Kathy was previously a beloved 3s and 4s teacher at Pittsford Nursery School and had several years of experience as the director of another local childcare center.
Kathy and her husband have two children. In her spare time she enjoys spending time with her family along with traveling, camping, reading, and following the New York Yankees.
Heather Ray, Twos Teacher
Heather Ray started as an aide in the 2s class in 2013. In 2021 she was hired as the lead teacher in the 2s program. Heather holds a B.A. in Anthropology from Stony Brook University. Heather lives in Pittsford with her husband, Chuck, and their 3 sons.
Virginia Brown, Twos Assistant
Virginia Brown is our 2s Teaching Assistant. Virginia also goes by Gina (pronounced Gin-nah). Gina graduated from Sweet Briar College in Virginia with a degree in Psychology and her Nursery School through 3rd grade teaching certificate. After graduation she worked in both public and private schools where she lived in CT. While working she completed her MA in Reading and Language Arts with a remedial reading and 1st- 6th teaching certificate.
Gina is no stranger to PNCS, when they moved their family to Pittsford, her middle son attended 3,’s 4’s and YK. He is now a freshman at Mendon High School. Her youngest who is a 6th grader at Barker Road Middle School was in 2’s with Mrs. Ray and then went on to 3s and 4s.
In her spare time Gina enjoys outdoor adventures with her family and is an avid reader and crafter.
Carrie Gersh, Twos and Threes/Fours Blended Teacher
Carrie Gersh is our 3s and 3s/4s blended teacher. Carrie says, "I love to watch children develop their independence, whether that be learning to zip their jacket, mastering writing their name, or learning to be a good friend by using their words- these early years are truly remarkable and I'm happy to be a part of their learning."
Carrie received her BS in Engineering & Management from Clarkson University in Potsdam, NY. Though she worked in her field of study for many years, after having children she decided to become a stay-at-home parent to raise her kids. In 2018, Carrie began working at Pittsford Nursery School providing afternoon enrichment classes for 4s and Young Kindergarten students.
Originally from Vermont, Carrie is always excited for the first snow storm and all that Winter has to offer! She also enjoys volunteering at her children's school, baking, riding bikes on the canal, and spending time with her husband and two children.
Becky Frazier, Threes & Threes/Fours blended Assistant
Becky Frazier works with Carrie Gersh as her 3s and 3s/4s blended assistant. Becky joined us this year after taking time off to raise her children, both whom are Pittsford Nursery School alums. Becky also has previous experience working with young children as a nanny. Becky enjoys running, hiking, biking, and playing with her kids. Sunshine and warm weather, marine biology, animals, documentaries, and vintage pickup trucks fill her soul, too!
Kerry Mascia, Fours Teacher
Kerry Mascia is our 4s teacher! She graduated from Ithaca College in 2001 with her Bachelor’s degree in Speech Pathology and Audiology and a minor in Psychology. She earned a Masters in Education and Inclusive Education from Nazareth College. Kerry is certified in Childhood Education and Teaching Students with Disabilities.
Her preschool professional experience started at the Rochester Museum and Science Center Preschool in 2007. She took a brief hiatus to “become a mom” and then worked for several years at Christ Clarion Community Preschool in Pittsford.
Kerry lives in Pittsford with her 3 children. She loves reading, traveling with her family, skiing with her kids, and family movie night.
Danita Drees, Fours Assistant
Danita Drees is our 4s Teaching Assistant! Teaching and caring for children has always been at the heart of Danita’s life. With a background in Deaf Education and Special Education, she is passionate about creating an inclusive, encouraging space where every child can thrive. Before joining Pittsford Nursery School, she owned and ran her own in-home daycare, giving her a deep understanding of how to support both children and their families. When she’s not in the classroom, she loves spending time with her family and curling up with a good book.
Megan woods, Young Kindergarten Teacher
Megan Woods is our Young Kindergarten (YK) teacher. Megan graduated from St. Bonaventure with a degree in Elementary Education. She has taught grades K-3 in public schools in several different states including Texas, Ohio and New Jersey. In 2004 Megan was thrilled to move to Rochester! She worked locally as a preschool lead teacher for three years prior to joining our team. She co-led in the 2s program and was lead teacher in the 4/5 year old program. In her spare time, you will likely find Megan and her husband cheering on their two kids in their various activities.
Karen MacLean, Young K Teacher's Assistant
Karen is a wonderful asset to the Young Kindergarten program at Pittsford Nursery School. Like many of our staff members, Karen was introduced to the school when her son and daughter were students! During that time, she worked in the classroom as a helper parent, substitute aide and babysitting assistant. Karen has a BS in Finance from Miami University. Prior to Pittsford Nursery School she worked in commercial banking and then stayed home with her children. Karen says, "I love Pittsford Nursery School for the wonderful staff and all the involved and super supportive parents. I think the cooperative nature of the school makes the atmosphere very warm and welcoming." In her spare time, Karen loves to play sports with her kids, do puzzles, read, work in her yard and she loves decorating.