It is with great sadness and joy that the New Canaan Nature Center is announcing the retirement of our beloved Preschool Director, Marianne Kay. While we are sad to lose such a dedicated and loving early childhood education professional, but we are happy that she was able to make the decision that will allow her to travel, spend time with her family, and have fun pursuing her hobbies.
Marianne Kay. Contributed
Marianne Kay began her association with the New Canaan Nature Center 21 years ago, when her daughter, Elisabeth, attended the New Canaan Nature Center Preschool. Marianne loved the program so much, that she agreed to come on as a part-time teacher just six months later. From there she became a full-time teacher and then taking on the role of Assistant Director of the Preschool. In 2011, Marianne was hired as the Preschool Director.
In her 9 years as the Director, Marianne has poured her heart and soul into our Preschool. Early childhood education is an exhausting challenge and takes a special kind of person to dedicate their life to cultivating and nurturing young minds. She comes to work every day with a huge smile on her face, making our parents feel secure that their children are in such loving and capable hands.
Marianne has grown our preschool not only in numbers, but its integrity as well. Nature-based preschools are the fastest growing form of early childhood education, and the New Canaan Nature Center was the first nature-based preschool in the country. Marianne and the teachers work tirelessly to ensure that our program lives up to the high standard they have created.
The New Canaan Nature Center was extremely lucky to have Marianne Kay for the past 20 years. As we begin our search for the next Director, we know the program will march on next year, since she has helped create such a strong program, and recruit and train such a wonderful teaching staff. We know she will still volunteer and be part of our organization, so this is not a good-bye, but a heart-felt thank you and see you soon!
Bill Flynn
Executive Director, New Canaan Nature Center
I often see Marianne Kay at meetings and also walking smartly along Oenoke Ridge Rd. going to or from the Nature Center. I admire her energy and enthusiasm, a legacy that will continue to impact the Nature Center’s programs. Best wishes Marianne. Tom Nissley
Congratulations Marianne, a well deserved tribute to a wonderful and dedicated early childhood professional.