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.
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!
Kathleen Love
Teacher
Hi, I’m Kathleen Love! I have over 25 years of rewarding experience in Early Childhood Education and am passionate about creating a warm, nurturing, and engaging environment where every child can thrive. I hold my Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, have completed the required 45-hour training, and am VPK certified.
Throughout my career, I have enjoyed working with children of all ages and stages, developing and implementing age-appropriate, hands-on learning experiences that encourage curiosity, creativity, and a lifelong love of learning. I believe that every child is unique and deserves to feel safe, valued, and celebrated for who they are.
One of the most rewarding parts of my work is building strong, trusting relationships with families. I believe that when teachers and parents work together as partners, children gain the confidence and support they need to grow academically, socially, and emotionally.
I am grateful to be a part of the Moorings Presbyterian Preschool family and look forward to helping each child learn, grow, and make wonderful memories every day!
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
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 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 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.
Cyndy Gantzert
Teacher
Hi! My name is Cyndy Gantzert and I am so excited to be here at MPP. I hold a bachelors degree from the University of Florida, I’m certified kindergarten through sixth grade by the Florida Department of education, I am DCS certified, and have over 20 years experience, teaching students pre-K through eighth grade. I feel truly blessed to have the opportunity to create inclusive and support supporting learning environments where students can feel successful and thrive. I am passionate about helping students grow and look forward to a wonderful Year!
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!
Linda Leonard
Teacher’s Assistant
Hello! My name is Linda Leonard. I was born and raised in Massachusetts, and I have called Southwest Florida home for more than 20 years. With 18 years of experience as a preschool teacher, I have worked with children ages two through four, including Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) students. I earned my National Child Development Associate in 2015.
I very much enjoy working with preschool children because I love helping them grow academically and socially. My passion for early childhood education is matched by my dedication to serving the community through volunteer work with Habitat for Humanity and 12 years of teaching Sunday School.
In my free time, I enjoy spending time with friends and family. I especially love traveling with my daughter and exploring local coffee shops.
I am very excited for this coming school year. I look forward to getting to know you and your child and to be part of your child’s learning journey..