Hello, it’s a pleasure to meet you. I’m Maestra Rivera, the founder and director of Manzanita Academy. I have over 26 years of teaching experience—10 years in Mexico and 16 in the United States. I studied education with a minor in special needs, and from a young age, I discovered my passion for teaching and helping children reach their full potential.

At Manzanita Academy, our mission is to provide high-quality education through Spanish immersion. Learning a second language at an early age enhances critical thinking, strengthens memory, improves communication skills, and builds meaningful cultural connections.

As an educator, wife, mother, and associate pastor, my greatest joy is seeing children learn, grow, and explore the world with curiosity and confidence.

My promise is that your child will learn Spanish naturally while developing strong academic and social skills that will prepare them for the future.

Hello, I’m Ms. Vanessa R. I have been part of the Manzanita team since my college years in 2018. I graduated from Goshen College in Social Work, and I am passionate about helping others. I love working with children, guiding them in their learning, and watching them grow, explore, and discover the world every day. Some of my favorite classroom activities include dance parties, outdoor free play, and summer picnics.

I work closely with the director of Manzanita and sometimes pop into classrooms to assist wherever needed. I am also happy to provide any resources or support your family might need.

My promise to the children: I will always be a positive, caring, and attentive role model. I promise to guide, support, and nurture them with love and respect at every step of their learning journey.

Hello, I’m Erica De la Rosa, and I am honored to be part of the Manzanita Early Learning Program team in our Infant Room. Each day begins with joy, patience, creativity, and a deep commitment to our little learners.

My promise is to provide a safe, loving, and enriching environment where every baby can grow at their own pace, developing confidence, curiosity, and a genuine love for learning.

Hello, I’m Teacher Elí. I’ve been part of the Manzanita team since 2024. I earned my bachelor’s degree in psychology, and in 2022, I received my Child Development Associate (CDA) certification.

My role in the classroom is to support children’s development in all areas — cognitive, physical, social, and emotional. I’m passionate about watching each child grow and reach new milestones.

My promise to the children is to provide a safe and nurturing environment for learning and growth in all areas of development, and to guide them with love, dedication, and patience every step of the way.

Hello, I’m Teacher Zorbei. My name is Zorbeida Castellanos, but everyone knows me as Zorbei. I’m from Venezuela and have been part of the Manzanita team since 2021. Although I graduated with a degree in Business Administration, I have received continuous and careful training to develop the knowledge and tools needed for early childhood education and development. I am truly passionate about working with children and being part of their learning journey each day.

My promise to the children is to provide them with continuous learning, to teach them to share, be tolerant, manage their emotions, and most importantly, to grow with love — for themselves, for others, and for the world around them.