Meet The Leadership
Sydney Philibin
Star Preschools
About Sydney Philibin
My name is Sydney Philibin and I am the VP of Administration & Strategy of STAR Preschools. I graduated from “THE” Ohio State University with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the Max M. Fisher College of Business. Children are my passion and for as long as I can remember, I have always dreamed of having the opportunity to educate and broaden the horizons of every child.
My interest for early childhood education began at a very young age as I grew up in and watched my mother establish her schools. I observed my mother develop into a motivational leader, engaging owner, and business guru, opening several facilities in the Columbus area. Over the years, she has consistently inspired me to follow my heart and I know it belongs in early childhood education. Throughout school and post-grad I had the privilege of working as a Nanny, Camp Counselor, volunteer for children with special needs at Cape Abilities, a childcare Teacher and Principal at Bright Star Academy. With my experience working with a variety of age groups, I have realized just how amazing it is to be a part of the educational growth of every child, no matter the age.
For as long as I can remember, I have always loved children. I was the mother hen of the family, the one who was eager to assist and was always there to care for my younger siblings. As I grew older, I continued volunteering at my mother’s childcare facilities and was consistently reminded that small children accomplishing their greatest assets is WHY I do what I do! Every day my feet hit the floor running with excitement knowing that I have the great opportunity to surround myself with loving, caring, and adorable children, in a fun environment each day. I wouldn’t trade my job for the world! In fact, I brag that my job is the greatest job ever. Children are so empowering, and they motivate me to want to do great things in life that ultimately affect their future directly!
Nicole Gallahue
Star Preschools
About Nicole Gallahue
Nicole Gallahue is the Regional Principal for Star Preschools, where her leadership is fueled by a deep passion for nurturing young learners and supporting educators. A Massachusetts native, Nicole earned her Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education from Curry College and her Master’s in Educational Administration from UMass Boston.
With extensive experience in both public and private education, Nicole brings a well-rounded understanding of child development and school systems. She is Infant, Toddler, and Preschool certified and holds Director I and II certifications.
Nicole’s leadership is rooted in classroom experience and her dedication to building safe, nurturing learning environments where children thrive and families feel supported. She values strong relationships with families and considers it a privilege to support children’s growth.
Marybeth Hogan
Star Preschools
About Marybeth Hogan
Marybeth Hogan brings a strong foundation in early childhood education to her role as Curriculum Coordinator for Star Preschools. Inspired by her mother, who worked as a paraprofessional in preschool classrooms, Marybeth discovered her calling early on. Marybeth holds a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education from Fitchburg State University and a Master of Education in Learning Disabilities from Rivier College.
As Curriculum Coordinator, she combines her experience as an educator and a parent to design developmentally appropriate, engaging experiences for children. Marybeth is passionate about partnering with families to build strong foundations and joyful learning environments that spark creativity and curiosity.
Sharon Ellis
Star Preschools
About Sharon Ellis
Sharon Ellis is an experienced Human Resources Specialist supporting education and childcare organizations. She brings a strong background in recruitment, employee relations, and compliance, with a people-centered approach to supporting educators and leadership teams.
After previously working in human resources within nursing home settings, Sharon is especially proud to now support professionals at the early stages of life and development. Her experience across different life stages gives her a thoughtful, empathetic perspective on HR practices and staff support.
Sharon is passionate about fostering positive workplace cultures where educators feel valued, supported, and empowered to focus on providing high-quality care and education to children.
Nina Trible
Star Preschools
About Nina Trible
Nina Trible is the Regional Trainer for Star Preschools, supporting and developing educators across all Star locations. She began her career in early childhood education in 2009 and has served as a preschool teacher, Principal of Starboard Academy in Sandwich, and Principal of Starboard Academy in Plymouth.
With a background rooted in family childcare and years of hands-on leadership experience, Nina brings energy, care, and deep expertise to training and mentoring our Stellar staff. She is a proud mother of two and is passionate about empowering educators to create high-quality, nurturing learning environments that support every child’s growth and development.
Danielle Faria
Star Preschools
About Danielle Faria
Danielle Faria is the Flex Principal at Star Preschools. A Cape Cod native, she holds an Associate Degree from Cape Cod Community College and a Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education from Bridgewater State University.
Danielle has worked in nearly every role in early education, from classroom teacher to administrator, and is truly a jack of all trades. Her leadership style is compassionate and collaborative, and she brings a nurturing presence to every school she supports. Danielle is passionate about connecting with children, families, and educators alike.
Adriana Roque
Starboard Academy Plymouth
About Adriana Roque
Adriana Roque is the Principal at Starboard Academy in Plymouth. A Plymouth native, Adriana began her career in early childhood education in 2005 and has worked in various early education programs across the South Shore.
Adriana is passionate about celebrating each child’s unique personality and growth. She brings warmth, dedication, and a strong educational background to her role and is committed to building strong partnerships with families.
Christine Burke
Starboard Academy Marshfield
About Christine Burke
Christine Burke is the Principal at Starboard Academy in Marshfield. With over 30 years of experience as a Center Director, Christine Burke is passionate about creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive. Building strong relationships with children, families, and educators has been one of the most rewarding aspects of her career.
Outside of work, she is a proud mom of three children and a cheerleading coach. She enjoys spending quality time with her family and friends, staying active in her community, and making meaningful connections with those around her.
She is grateful to be part of the Star Preschool team and looks forward to supporting each child as they grow, discover, and reach their full potential.
Katie Gerdin
Little Stars South Dennis
About Katie Gerdin
Katie Gerdin serves as Principal of Little Stars Learning Center in South Dennis. Originally from Pittsfield, MA, she earned her Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education from Cape Cod Community College after a successful career in healthcare.
Katie draws inspiration from family members who were teachers and her own desire to support children with varying needs. With over a decade of teaching experience, she is dedicated to fostering inclusive, nurturing classrooms. As Principal, Katie brings leadership, compassion, and a deep commitment to early learning.
Kelly Pierce
Little Stars Sandwich
About Kelly Pierce
Kelly Pierce is our Principal of Little Stars Learning Center in Sandwich.
Kelly has been working in the childcare field since 1999 and has been a childcare Director since 2005. She truly enjoys working with children, families, and teachers and is passionate about creating a positive and supportive environment for everyone.
Outside of work, Kelly enjoys camping, visiting Disney, and going on cruises with her family. She has a daughter who lives in Oregon and a Puggle named Dante, who is a very special part of her family.
Kelly is very excited to join the Little Stars family in Sandwich and looks forward to getting to know all of the children, families, and staff!
Sabrina Spirito
Little Stars Merrimack
About Sabrina Spirito
Sabrina Spirito is our Principal of Little Stars Learning Center in Merrimack. More info to come!
Kitty Larochelle
Little Stars Manchester
About Kitty Larochelle
Kitty Larochelle is our Principal of Little Stars Learning Center in Manchester!
Kitty is a New Hampshire native who lives in Bedford with her husband. Together, they have six children and ten grandchildren. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, with a minor in Family Studies, from Granite State College.
Kitty began her career in early education in 1999 and brings extensive leadership experience, knowledge, and passion to her role with Star Preschools. As a member of the Star Preschools leadership team, she is passionate about supporting educators, strengthening programs, partnering with families, and creating exceptional early learning experiences for children.
At the heart of everything Kitty does is a simple belief: every child deserves to feel safe, valued, loved, and inspired to learn, and every educator deserves to know that their daily work helps shape the future.
Jill Lavoie
Little Stars Manchester
About Jill Lavoie
Jill Lavoie is our Assistant Principal of Little Stars Learning Center in Manchester!
As an Assistant Principal, Jill’s favorite part of the job is building meaningful relationships with children, families, and staff. She holds an Associate Degree in Human Services – Youth and Elderly, as well as a Certificate in Early Childhood Education. She is also a Life Is Good Certified Playmaker. Before becoming an Assistant Director in 2006, she spent several years as a preschool teacher.
She is passionate about ensuring that every child receives the care and attention they deserve when they walk through the door each day. She believes every child deserves to feel loved, feel safe, and have plenty of opportunities to have fun!
Outside of work, she is happily married and loves spending time with her three children and two grandchildren. Her family enjoys spending time outdoors camping, hiking, and taking in the beautiful fall foliage throughout New England. She also loves road trips and exploring the unique charm of small-town downtown areas.
Mary Vallancourt
Starboard Academy Plymouth
About Mary Vallancourt
Mary Vallancourt is our Assistant Principal at Starboard Academy in Plymouth!
She is from Hanson and began her career in Early Education in 2016. She graduated from Whitman-Hanson Regional High School and went on to earn her Bachelor’s degree in Childhood Studies from Bridgewater State University.
Coming from a large family, Mary has always been surrounded by children. As the oldest sister and cousin, working with children has always come naturally to her. She especially enjoys watching children grow and develop while in her care and building meaningful relationships with the families she works with.
Outside of work, Mary enjoys shopping, discovering new coffee shops, and taking her dog, Winnie, on walks along different walking trails.
Mary joined STAR Preschools because she loves being part of children’s growth and development and looks forward to creating lasting relationships with children and their families! She can’t wait to learn more about you and your family!
Jackeline Gleiciele
Star Preschools
About Gleiciele Jackeline
Jackeline Gleiciele, who goes by Jackie, is our Administrative Assistant for Star Preschools. Shewas born and raised in Brazil. In 2021, she moved to the United States with her mother and younger brother and now lives in Plymouth with her fiancé.
Jackie is an outgoing and friendly person who enjoys meeting new people and building meaningful relationships. She has always loved being around children and finds great joy in watching them learn, grow, and have fun each day.
In her free time, Jackie enjoys spending quality time with her family and friends, exploring new places, and going on little adventures. She also loves watching animated movies, coloring, and anything involving flowers or nature. She and her fiancé enjoy attending church together every Sunday, and she strives to bring kindness, positivity, and a smile wherever she goes.
Kelly Harris
Star Preschools
About Kelly Harris
Kelly Harris is our Administrative Assistant for Star Preschools. She grew up in the beautiful town of Bridgewater and, after graduating from high school, went on to attend college. After completing her education, she married and began raising her family. She is the proud mother of two grown children, seven grown stepchildren, and seventeen wonderful grandchildren.
In her free time, she enjoys walking on the beach and spending quality time with her family and friends. She is also a proud pet owner of one dog and two cats.
She is excited to be part of the team at Star Preschool and feels truly privileged to play a role in each child’s learning journey. She finds it incredibly rewarding to support their growth, development, and confidence as they blossom into amazing individuals.
Ausland
Bernedoodle
About Ausland
Ausland is a Bernedoodle and a very special part of the STAR Preschools community. As an emotional support animal, Ausland brings comfort, companionship, and a little extra joy to the children and staff around her.
With her sweet personality and gentle nature, Ausland loves being around people and is always happy to offer a friendly greeting, a cuddle, or simply a calming presence when someone needs it. She helps create a warm and welcoming environment where children can feel safe, supported, and at ease.
Whether she’s making a child smile, joining in on classroom activities, or soaking up some attention from her favorite teachers, Ausland is always ready to brighten someone’s day.
We’re so lucky to have her as part of our STAR family!
