Our Team
The Stork's Nest Child Academy Inc
Welcome to Stork's Nest Child Academy, where every child feels at home! Our dedicated team is passionate about nurturing young minds and fostering a love for learning in a warm, safe environment. From our experienced educators to our caring support staff, each member of our team is committed to providing exceptional child care services. We invite you to get to know us better as we work together to help your little ones thrive and achieve their full potential! Contact us today to learn more.
Barbara Izzo
Owner/President
Mrs. Izzo has over thirty years of experience in the Early Childhood field. She opened her first center in 1986, and has owned and operated various centers throughout R.I. since. She is extremely dedicated to providing a superior structured educational program for young children. Mrs. Izzo is a member of the National & RI Child Care Director’s Association.
Cheryl Ucci
Business Director
Ms. Cheryl Ucci has been with the Stork's Nest Child Academy since 1999. She currently handles all account management at the Corporate Office. She was previously the director at the Smithfield location for several years. As the daughter of the owner, Ms. Barbara Izzo, Cheryl strives to provide quality service to our staff, children and their families.
Paula Costa
Director of Education
Ms. Paula Costa has been with the Stork's Nest Child Academy since 1997. She started out as a kindergarten teacher and soon afterwards became the director. She happily fulfilled that role for 23 years and has taken on the role of curriculum coordinator. She has her Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education and is a certified teacher for the State of Rhode Island. She has taken both Foundations and Developing a Standards Based Curriculum through the Rhode Island Department of Education. Ms. Costa enjoys working with teachers to help create an environment that promotes learning. She has two children of her own. As an educator and a mom, she loves being part of the Stork's Nest team that ensures each child is heard and given the opportunity to thrive in their classrooms. Ms. Costa's commitment to our program is immeasurable and her dedication to the staff, children and families in all three locations is exceptional.
Hannah Judd
Warwick Director
As the Director of our center, I am passionate about creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive. I believe that strong relationships with families and staff are the foundation of a successful school community. My goal is to support our teachers, partner with families, and ensure every child feels valued and cared for each day. I take great pride in the meaningful connections we build and the positive experiences we provide for every child who walks through our doors.
I am proud to be the granddaughter of our owner, Barbara Izzo, and to be part of a family legacy rooted in early childhood education. I have been with Stork’s Nest Child Academy since 2019. Before stepping into the Director role at our Warwick location, I served as Assistant Director and Lead Teacher at our East Greenwich location, gaining hands-on experience supporting children and staff in the classroom and beyond.
Celina Jones-Haskins
East Greenwich Director
Celina has been with Stork’s Nest Child Academy since 2014. She was the head teacher and taught the Kindergarten class. She was the director and curriculum coordinator in Smithfield since 2016. She transitioned to the East Greenwich center in 2023. She has her Bachelor's in Early Childhood/Elementary Education and Special Education. She has taken REILDS 1, 2 and 3, and countless education classes.
