All Just Kids staff and administration are licensed and certified in their respective fields by the State of New York. Our Special Education and Early Childhood teachers, teacher assistants, teacher aides, and therapeutic and medical staff have a comprehensive understanding of child development and how children learn. Our program administrators have training in their relevant fields as well as NYS Certification in School Leadership.
Early Childhood Learning Center
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Just Kids Early Childhood Learning Center
STAFF & ADMINISTRATION
MEET OUR EXECUTIVE GROUP
STEVE HELD, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Steve Held, CAGS, M.Ed., NYSED Certified School Administrator, is the Executive Director and co-founder of Just Kids Early Childhood Learning Center and Just Kids Diagnostic and Treatment Center. He began his career in 1974 as a kindergarten teacher and has over five decades of experience in early childhood and special education, with an expertise in special education law, early intervention, and inclusive learning environments. In 1991 Steve was appointed to the New York State Early Intervention Coordinating Council and was recently a Governor’s appointment as Chairperson, while he endeavors to support infants and toddlers with disabilities in NYS. He is committed to a continued learning from staff, children and their families. He believes that every child’s abilities should be recognized and nurtured, while believing that all children should be allowed to show us who they are, rather than having their potential predicted. He is committed to the schools’ parents as partners and feels privileged to work with family’s in concert with their children. Steve realizes that this is the first placement for families and their children, and he would like to provide everything that is needed to start a positive journey through life in years to come.
LAURA A. KELLY, FINANCE DIRECTOR
Laura A. Kelly, B.A., is the Finance Director at Just Kids. She began her career in 1990 and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting and Information Systems from Queens College. Laura brings over 35 years of experience in all aspects of fiscal reporting for Special Education programs and always endeavors to be mindful of the needs and concerns of our students, families and dedicated staff while simultaneously maintaining oversight of the resources and finances of this agency. She is committed to providing an inclusive learning environment and bridging communication between the fiscal and program sectors of the Just Kids team.
GABRIELLE HOFFMAN, ASSISTANT EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Gabrielle Hoffman, M.S., is the Assistant Executive Director at Just Kids. She began her career in 2006 and holds a Master of Science in Education, along with certifications as a School Building Leader and in Literacy, Students with Disabilities, Early Childhood Education, and Childhood Education. Gabrielle specializes in behavioral support, differentiated instruction, and ensuring compliance with NYSED regulations while supporting families of students with special needs. She believes every child can grow and succeed when provided with individualized support, high expectations, and a nurturing environment.
ZACHARY KELLY, ASSISTANT FINANCE DIRECTOR
Zachary Kelly, M.S., is the Assistant Finance Director at Just Kids. He began his career in 2016 and holds a Master of Science in Data Science with a specialization in Predictive Analytics, focusing on forecasting and inferential statistics. Zachary’s expertise includes budgeting and descriptive, predictive, and prescriptive analytics. He is committed to fostering a small but impactful community where every child and family feels welcomed.
MICHAEL RODRIGUEZ, MEDICAL DIRECTOR
Michael Rodriguez, M.D., is the Medical Director at Just Kids. He began his medical career in 2004 and is board-certified in Pediatrics and Internal Medicine, as well as a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics. Dr. Rodriguez specializes in coordinating care across multiple specialties to promote the physical and behavioral health of children and families. He is committed to ensuring compassionate, high-quality care in both home and educational settings.
MONIQUE VILLALTA, DIRECTOR OF HUMAN SERVICES
Monique Villalta, B.A., is the Director of Human Resources at Just Kids. She began her career in healthcare in 1997 and joined Just Kids in 2005, becoming HR Director in 2017. Monique holds a Bachelor’s degree in Communications and Business Administration and focuses on talent acquisition, retention, employee engagement, and HR strategy development. She is committed to recruiting skilled staff, supporting professional growth, and ensuring HR policies align with Just Kids’ mission of providing high-quality, inclusive education.