Meet The Directors

Director of Admissions and Operations 

I'm Kimberly, Director of Admissions and Operations at Ivybrook Academy Londonderry. With over 20 years of experience in early childhood education, I've had the privilege of supporting young learners in various settings, from private preschools to community programs. My passion is creating meaningful connections with families and fostering an environment where every child feels seen, supported, and inspired to learn.

I'm drawn to Ivybrook's blended curriculum model and emphasis on individualized learning, which aligns with my belief that every child deserves an environment that honors their unique strengths and encourages creativity and curiosity. In my role, I bring expertise in operations, admissions, and community partnerships, and I'm committed to making the preschool journey warm, transparent, and joyful for families.

As a mother to two amazing daughters and blessed with my best friend as my husband, I understand the importance of family support. Supporting children and families is not just my profession – it's my calling. I love seeing children grow in confidence and excitement, and I'm dedicated to partnering with you every step of the way. I look forward to getting to know you and your child!

 

Director of Curriculum 

I’m Heather, and I have the privilege of serving as the Director of Curriculum at Ivybrook Academy’s Londonderry Campus. My heart is deeply rooted in the transformative power of education, and I am passionate about creating a nurturing, enriching environment where every child can flourish.

With over 30 years of experience in early childhood education and more than a decade in family services, I am dedicated to supporting each child’s educational and personal growth. For 20 years, I worked as a Montessori teacher and preschool director in New Hampshire, an experience that deepened my belief in blending time-honored educational philosophies with modern practices.

Throughout my career, I have served in a variety of roles—including Montessori teacher, preschool director, childcare director, Head Start education director, Head Start home visitor, and family service manager. Each role has given me a unique perspective and strengthened my ability to mentor both children and families in meaningful ways.

I hold a master’s degree in Leadership and a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Granite State College, as well as a Montessori teaching certificate from the New England Montessori Teacher Education Center in Newton, MA. My goal at Ivybrook Academy is to ensure that every child is given the opportunity to thrive, explore with confidence, and embrace their full potential.

As a mother of an adult daughter, I understand firsthand the joys and challenges of parenting. I am here to be a supportive partner for every family, helping nurture your child’s natural curiosity and love of learning. I look forward to walking alongside you on this exciting journey of discovery.

Ivybrook Academy - Londonderry
Lalit and Meenakshi Shinde

Owner's Story

Lalit and Meenakshi Shinde

Meenakshi and Lalit are proud to bring Ivybrook Academy’s innovative, blended approach to early childhood education to Londonderry and the surrounding communities. They believe there is nothing more fulfilling than helping shape the next generation during their earliest and most important years of development.


Originally from India, both Meenakshi and Lalit hold Master’s degrees in Computer Science and bring a unique blend of educational passion and professional expertise to Ivybrook Londonderry. Meenakshi’s deep love for teaching inspired her to transition from a career in software engineering to owning an educational franchise, where she supported students from preschool through high school in math and English enrichment.


Lalit has an extensive background as an entrepreneur, having helped scale multiple startup companies from fewer than 20 employees to more than 5,000. Several of these ventures were successfully acquired and went on to become part of larger organizations like Juniper Networks.
Though their professional roots are in technology and business, their hearts have always been in education and community service. Their shared passion for nurturing young minds and giving back to the community has led them to open the first Ivybrook Academy preschool in New Hampshire — a place where children can grow, discover, and thrive.

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