Our Teachers

The teacher’s role is one of guidance, involvement and understanding of individual needs. The teacher encourages effort and understands difficulties in learning and behavior. He or she knows when to present something that is challenging to a child, when to be an onlooker while the child makes his or her own discoveries and when to step in to help with a new phase of learning.

Our teachers are chosen, not only for their philosophy but for their ability to apply the philosophy in an actual practical situation. An essential quality is the teacher’s ability to relate to the children in an understanding way, with concern for each child as an individual.

Dr. Susan Chilvers

Founder & Educational Director of TNS

Undergraduate Degree: University of London in English and Drama
Masters and Doctorate in Education: University of Massachusetts at Amherst
Degree Focus: Education, Drama and “Integrated Day”
New School Teacher Since: 1970

Jay Smith

Older Class Teacher & Administrative Director of TNS

Undergraduate Degree: Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania
Degree Focus: Science and Education
New School Teacher Since: 1972

Kathey Shoshin

Middle Class Teacher

Undergraduate Degree: Kean College
Degree Focus: Early Childhood Education; NJ Certification in K-8th Grade; NJ Home Schooling
New School Teacher Since: 1990

Robin Sorrentino

Younger Class Teacher & New School parent

Undergraduate Degree: Monmouth University
Masters Degree: Monmouth University
Degree Focus: Early Childhood and Elementary Education
New School Teacher Since: 2013