Moorings

Faculty & Staff

Faculty & Staff

Diane Byrnes

 

Diane Byrnes Director

I was born and raised on Long Island, New York, and have been married to my husband, Eddie, for 30 years. In 2004, we moved to Naples, where we have been blessed raising our three wonderful children—twin daughters, Torance (Tori) and Taylor, and our son, E.J. 

My journey into early childhood education was deeply shaped by motherhood—especially raising twins—which opened my heart to the joy of guiding and nurturing young children. I felt a calling to support families, build meaningful connections, and create a faith-filled environment where children could grow in love, confidence, and character. 

Answering that calling was a path of dedication, perseverance, and faith. I began by earning my CDA Staff Credential from Central Florida Institute, a foundation that allowed me to grow as an early childhood educator. I then pursued my director’s credentials from Seminole State College, combining my love for children with leadership in education. Finally, I earned my VPK Director’s Certification, equipping me to serve children and families with excellence at every level. I also hold a Notary certificate. 

Each milestone in my education represents more than just a credential—it reflects my commitment to nurturing young hearts, inspiring curiosity, and creating a safe, joyful, and faith-filled environment for every child. 

I am truly honored to serve at Moorings Presbyterian Preschool, a place where Faith, Love, and Learning walk hand in hand. My prayer is that every child who walks through our doors feels safe, cherished, and known—not only by their teachers but also by our loving God. I look forward to helping children discover their gifts, grow in confidence, and create joyful, lasting memories. 

Our caring team of teachers is DCF-qualified and certified in CPR and First Aid, providing a safe and nurturing environment for your little ones.

Jacqueline Deneke

Jacqueline Deneke

Teacher

Hi! I’m Jacqueline Deneke, a DCF-certified teacher with experience in Pre-K3 and Pre-K4, originally from Germany and proud to call Naples home. I love hands-on learning, nature, and crafts, and am passionate about helping children grow. I look forward to a wonderful year nurturing confident, curious, and joyful learners!
Brea Butler

Brea Butler

Teacher

Hello! My name is Brea Butler, and I’m delighted to be here at MPP. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Child and Youth Studies from FGCU and a Director’s Credential from DSU, with several years of experience creating inclusive, supportive learning environments where every child can thrive. I’m excited to help your children grow, explore, and discover their unique strengths while having fun and making wonderful memories along the way!
Wendy Delate

Wendy Delate

Teacher

Hello! My name is Wendy Delate, and I’m thrilled to be back at MPP, where my own children made wonderful memories. I hold FGCU Education Certifications, a Bachelor’s from FSU, and I am VPK-certified, with 14 years of experience fostering curiosity, creativity, and kindness through play. I look forward to helping your child grow, gain confidence, and enjoy their early learning journey!
Vanessa Kinnas

Vanessa Kinnas

Teacher

Hi! My name is Vanessa Kinnas, and I’m so excited to be your child’s teacher. I have bachelor’s degree and I am DCF certified and feel truly blessed to create a warm, playful environment where children can grow in confidence, curiosity, and independence. I look forward to partnering with you to make this year full of learning, love, and kindness.
Lexi Cianciolo

Lexi Ciancilo

Teacher

Hi, my name is Lexi Cianciolo, and I’m so excited to be part of the MPP family. I am DCF-certified and have over 8 years of experience creating nurturing, engaging learning environments where young children feel safe, supported, and curious to explore. I love building meaningful connections with children and families while helping each child grow socially, emotionally, and cognitively to reach their full potential!
Payton Orozcojpg

Payton Orozco

Teacher

Hello! My name is Payton Orozco, and I’m excited to be part of the classroom with several years of experience as a Teacher Assistant in Chicago Public Schools and nonprofit programs. I am DCF and CPR certified and dedicated to creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment where children can grow and thrive. As a musician and educator, I love bringing creativity and music into the classroom while helping every child feel confident and valued.
Niki Ross

Niki Ross

Teacher

Hello! My name is Niki Ross, and I’m a CDA-, DCF-, and VPK-certified teacher with over 20 years of experience in VPK. I love witnessing the “a-ha” moments when children learn new things and creating a classroom full of safety, love, respect, and fun. I’m so grateful for the trust you place in me and excited to share this learning adventure with your children this year!
Tami Micheli

Tami Micheli

Teacher's Assistant

Hi! My name is Tami Micheli, and I am excited to be the teacher assistant in the 3-year-old classroom. I hold a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education and am passionate about helping young children grow, explore, and learn. As a mom of three, I look forward to working with you to support your child’s development this year!
Susan Colombo

Susan Colombo

Teacher's Assistant

Hello, my name is Susan Colombo, and I am excited to be your STEAM teacher at Moorings Presbyterian Preschool. I hold a Bachelor of Arts degree and have many years of experience teaching elementary STEAM, creating a safe, nurturing, and creative environment where children can explore and learn. I look forward to partnering with families to help our little one’s love, learn, and grow with confidence.