Leadership
Debra Frankel
Director
Debra Frankel has devoted her entire career to early childhood education. She earned an M.A. in Early Childhood Education from Hunter College and studied Structural Family Therapy with Dr. Salvatore Minuchin at The Minuchin Family Training Center. Her greatest professional joy is working with children, teachers and families to cultivate a supportive, safe place for learning. With deep experience in both admissions and exmissions, Debra strives for every student to move to their next school with a strong sense of self and love of lifelong learning. Prior to Third Street, Debra spent over 35 years teaching and in leadership positions both in New York City and Westchester County. She has extensive experience in leading and teaching emergent, progressive, and project-based learning. She is an active member of ISAAGNY and DECA. When not at Third Street, she can be found in her garden, playing the guitar or piano, and spending time with her family.
Kirstin Aadahl
Kirstin Aadahl joined Third Street Preschool in 2015, bringing with her a broad understanding of diverse learning styles and related support strategies. As Preschool Assistant Director, Kirstin guides many aspects of our program, from the welcoming of new students and families to interpersonal and administrative coordination. She regularly supports faculty, guides parents through the exmissions process for kindergarten, and works closely with the Education Director. Before joining the Third Street community, Kirstin worked for fifteen years as a dedicated special education teacher, providing support to young children and teachers. She built inclusive classroom environments that helped students to feel valued and empowered.
