Leadership
Principal
Head Human Resources
Umme Salma
Principal
M.Ed. Educational Leadership – Santa Clara University, California
Director Certification/Training – Foothill College & Stanford University, California
Umme has over 14 years of teaching and administrative experience from the Bay Area in California. Her education and training are from Santa Clara University and Stanford University, California. She is the founding Principal of New York Academy and is also an Adjunct Instructor at Notre Dame de Namur University, California. She is a dynamic instructional leader with an enduring passion to help children reach their full potential not just academically, but also socially, emotionally, and physically. Umme believes that teaching and learning are irrevocably connected and effective teachers inspire and support students to develop 21st Century Skills that are critical to their success in this ever changing world. She has been instrumental in bringing a world class teacher training program from Notre Dame de Namur University, California to New York Academy.
A lifelong learner at heart, she is always encouraged to stay current with the best practices in education in areas like brain-compatible learning, project-based learning, differentiated instruction, emotional intelligence, and constructivism. Umme is a bibliophile of sorts with a passion for traveling.
Santoshi Medisetty
Head Human Resources
MBA in HR and Operations Management with a certification in Career Guidance Counselling from GCC.
Ms.Santoshi is our Head for HR Dept bringing more than 23 years of diverse experience to the team. Her areas of expertise include Management of Human resources, Professional development, Employee Welfare and relations, Employee grievances, recruitment, Compliance, Statutory & Administration.
Throughout her career, Ms. Santoshi has successfully led HR initiatives in sectors ranging from education, manufacturing and technology; demonstrating a remarkable ability to adapt and excel in different environments. Her extensive experience has equipped her with a deep understanding of talent management, employee engagement, organisational development, and operations.
She believes that a strong, motivated, and well-supported team is the foundation of an outstanding learning experience. She will be pivotal at NYA in shaping our HR strategies, driving recruitment excellence, and fostering a supportive and inclusive workplace culture. Her leadership will ensure that we continue to attract and retain profound talent, while also providing our staff with promising career opportunities.
Faculty
Homeroom Facilitator
Nursery-B Lead Facilitator
Homeroom Facilitator
Homeroom Facilitator
MYP Math & Science Facilitator
Co-facilitator KG-B
Homeroom Facilitator
Co lead Facilitator-Pre-K 3
Pre K 4 Co-Facilitator
Pre-K 3 Co Lead Facilitator
PK3 Co- Facilitator
PT/PG Co-Lead Facilitator
Pre-K 4 Lead Facilitator
PYP Facilitator
Grade 1 Facilitator
KG Co-Facilitator
Co lead Facilitator-Nursery
Special Educator
Anjum Zia
Nursery-B Lead Facilitator
B.A, B.Ed, Early Childhood Education, Norte Dame De Namur University-California Teaching Programme
Hi, I am Anjum, your child’s homeroom teacher for this academic year. I have more than 15 years of experience in early childhood education, and dealing with curriculums like American, British and IB.
I have done my B.ED and teaching program from California University. I believe learning through play can develop social and cognitive skills, emotionally and gain the self confidence for the little minds, to be independent.
Tahoora Ahsan
Homeroom Facilitator
B.A., Early Childhood Education, Norte Dame De Namur University-California Teaching Programme and Montessorie Certification IMTTI
I bring 11 years of experience in early childhood education, having started my career at Vivero International in Hyderabad before joining New York Academy. I am a dedicated and driven educator who nurtures the intellectual, physical, and emotional development of my students, all while ensuring their safety and well-being. I’m passionate about guiding students to shape a better world by empowering them with knowledge. With an enthusiastic personality, a vibrant sense of humor, and a strong ability to enhance student performance, I strive to create a positive and impactful learning environment.
Joan Jacqline Dausi
Homeroom Facilitator
“The children you may teach may not remember you when they get older, but they will always have a part of you inside them.” This quote by Marylin Applebaum has been the driving force for Ms Joan who has been teaching the toddlers, creating the most memorable experience, and helping them with the right kind of foundation in the growing years for the past 18 years in the best of schools. The experience of teaching hundreds of toddlers and enjoying it through the years has helped her look at life on the brighter side, and this has enhanced her endeavor every year to equip her kids with the best of academics accompanied with various activities. Her favourite pastime is good music and is a fanatic of home decor and DIY.
Kiran Joyshree Rajah
Homeroom Facilitator
Kiran has 15 years of experience in Administration but developed the passion towards teaching so moved on to the education field in the last 6 years. She was associated with IB school and is extremely passionate about inspiring young minds to think deeply about the subject matter, play with ideas and take on more challenging work. In her free time she’s fond of singing and dancing which keeps her energy levels up.
Mondru Sandeep
MYP Math & Science Facilitator
Mr. Sandeep is an accomplished educator with extensive experience teaching diverse international and national curricula. Holding a master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, he brings a wealth of knowledge to his teaching endeavours.
His passion lies in igniting the love for maths and science in his students, and firmly believes that making real-life connections and integrating technology into these subjects is the key to nurturing a deep appreciation for them.
As a curious and lifelong learner, Mr. Sandeep is dedicated to promoting critical thinking and cultivating a genuine love for learning among his students, thereby empowering them to reach their fullest potential.
Nema Wahab Khan
Co-facilitator KG-B
Nema Wahab Khan has completed her Graduation in Psychology and would characterize herself as an ambitious, warm and enthusiastic educator who loves forging relationships with children, with an aim to help them grow as learners and become the best version of themselves while being their safe space and hopes to bring a positive impact on young minds and lives.
Nusrath Sultana
Homeroom Facilitator
Ms. Nusrath is a dedicated, passionate and enthusiastic teacher. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Mathematics and Computer Science. She is pursuing her masters in Psychology and has over 9 years of experience in Early Childhood Education. Likewise, she believes that every child is unique and believes in creating a fun learning environment through which she helps students develop emotionally, physically, mentally and socially. Furthermore, she thrives on challenges and loves to upgrade herself to be the best version for her students.
Alekhya
Co lead Facilitator-Pre-K 3
Ms. Alekhya, coming from a corporate background, finds the transition to the teaching profession truly inspiring. It offers a unique opportunity to apply her diverse skills and experiences, positively impacting the lives of young learners. Embracing this new role as a mentor, role model, and educator, she believes that her distinctive background brings a fresh and valuable perspective to the field of education. Passionate and dedicated, Ms. Alekhya is committed to nurturing a love of learning in every student. Her firm belief in the potential of each child to excel drives her teaching philosophy. As an educator, she takes on the responsibility of creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment where every student can thrive. With a focus on building strong relationships and engaging teaching methods, she aims to inspire her students to become lifelong learners and responsible global citizens.
Vyshnavi Ganjam
Pre K 4 Co-Facilitator
I’m Vyshnavi, an educator currently in my second year at New York Academy, where I also serve as a co-facilitator. With a passion for fostering learning and growth, I brings both professional dedication and personal experience as a mother to a toddler, blending compassion and expertise work with students.
Ms.Vyshnavi holds a Graduation in Education degree and her passion towards education has led her to choose the teaching profession. She believes to inculcate joy & fun in her teaching methods and strives to bring out the best in her students.
Aditi Mukherjee
Pre-K 3 Co Lead Facilitator
Ms.Aditi holds a master’s degree in English Literature with an experience of 6 years and has worked in CBSE schools in U.P. She is passionate about being an educator and encourages creativity and higher-order thinking in a way that increases students’ performance. She believes,”Children are not things to be molded, but are people to be unfolded.”
Sahitya Sanam
PK3 Co- Facilitator
I am Sahitya Sanam, dedicated educator with 7 years of valuable teaching experience. I’m pretty creative and skilled in art, craft, sculpting, calligraphy, and various painting styles. Known for my passion and compassionate teaching approach, I am dedicated to nurturing young minds and fostering a love for learning. My commitment to creating a supportive and engaging classroom environment sets me apart as a teacher who truly cares about the holistic development of my students.
Reem Abdul Wasey
PT/PG Co-Lead Facilitator
MBA in Finance, certified in Jolly phonics
I am Reem Abdul Wasey, a classroom discipliner holding an experience of 4 years in primary teaching with different curriculums like IB, Cambridge and American. I am surely a promising teacher whose solely dedicated to my children and work every year. I belive its not just the children who learn and grow every year but a teacher does too. Learning never ends for a teacher.
Shamsi Munawar
Pre-K 4 Lead Facilitator
B.A., Early Childhood Education, Norte Dame De Namur University-California Teaching Programme
With nearly a decade of experience in preschool education, I have developed a profound passion for teaching and nurturing young minds. The joy of witnessing children’s growth and development has been the driving force behind my journey as a teacher, with each day offering new opportunities for discovery and learning. Throughout the years, I have consistently adapted and refined my teaching methods to meet the evolving needs of early childhood education, ensuring that my approach remains dynamic and effective. My strengths include creating a warm and inclusive classroom environment, employing creative and engaging learning activities, and instilling a love for learning in every child. I excel at identifying individual learning styles and needs, allowing me to tailor my instruction to support each child’s unique developmental path. Through my commitment and expertise, I am dedicated to providing a solid foundation for lifelong learning, and empowering my students to become confident, curious, and capable learners.
Ms Puja
PYP Facilitator
B.Com, M.Com, NTT, B.ED
Greetings to all. I’m Ms. Puja; I have the ability to work with others with integrity and respect since I am a quick learner, passionate, driven, and enthusiastic team member. I holds a master’s degree in commerce and have been an instructor at the IB PYP school in Hyderabad for more than six years.
I have a strong belief in empowering students to become lifelong learners who are empathetic, future-ready, and exhibit the abilities and qualities of the learner profile. Giving kids a voice, a choice, and a sense of ownership that encourages student agency is one of my goals for an inquiry-led classroom. I enjoy making changes and experimenting with different concepts and methods for both teaching and learning.
I love to work with the learners as mentors and facilitators to assist them in developing their abilities, enhancing their self-esteem, and instilling social responsibility. Ensuring the physical and emotional well-being of every kid is my first priority.
Nuzhath Jehan
Grade 1 Facilitator
B.com , MBA , B.ed
Hello! I’m Nuzhath Jehan, With nine years of experience in the IB sector, my passion for teaching stems from a deep love for children. My priority is to instill a sense of responsibility in my students, empowering them to become empathetic, future-ready learners who embody the qualities of the learner profile. I believe in giving children a voice, choice, and a sense of ownership, which fosters student agency in an inquiry-led classroom. Every child is a capable learner, and I see myself as a lifelong learner alongside them. Through my commitment and expertise, I strive to provide a solid foundation for lifelong learning, nurturing my students to become confident, curious, and capable individuals.
My goal as a teacher or educator is to create a positive classroom environment
Rehnaaz
KG Co-Facilitator
BA Psychology and Literature . I have done a diploma course in NLP
I’m Rehnaaz. Ive completed my schooling from BLUE MOUNTAIN SCHOOL, Nilgiris Ooty. I’m a content writer by profession having 5 years of content writing experience. I have experience in marketing as well dealing with international trade. I diverted into the field of education having about 2 years of teaching experience. I have a flexible style of teaching which caters to all students and their abilities. My goal is to create a positive classroom environment where every student feels encouraged to do their best.
Hiranmaie Godavarthi
Co lead Facilitator-Nursery
Disha Harshad Purohit
Special Educator
I hold a BA and MA in Psychology, with specializations and experience in child education, therapies, counseling, psycho-oncology and teaching.
Hello, I am a passionate special educator at our school and a lifelong learner in the field of psychology. My journey into psychology stems from my fascination with the infinite possibilities of perspective around us, and a deep commitment to bridging the gap between knowledge and empathy. I am from Mumbai and have been in Hyderabad from almost a year now. I am trying to learn telugu by watching movies, and I can ask if you’ve had food in telugu- a question close to my heart, as food is my love language. I cherish the time spent in the cafeteria, where I have the most beautiful conversations with kids around me. If you spot a short person with big glasses around school, not wearing a uniform, it’s probably me. I lead Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) classes for students from KGA to grades 7 & 8. And work closely with our SEN kids, supporting their unique learning journeys. Every day, I am inspired by the learning that comes from each person I meet, growing and learning alongside all of you.
Specialists
Foreign Language Facilitator
Visual Arts Facilitator
Music Instructional Coach
Hindi Language Facilitator
Homeroom Facilitator
Music Facilitator
Kouassi Saturnin Kouadio
Foreign Language Facilitator
Kouadio kouassi Saturnin, Professional language facilitator is passionate for learning and has over 6 years of experience in various education environments in India. Having qualified in PGDM from WE SCHOOL in Mumbai, he is skilled in different aspects of classroom operation and curriculum development along with appropriate teaching programs to optimize the learning process with elementary and secondary level students. He has an exceptional passion for kids; willing to adjust teaching methods to adapt and meet students’ varying needs and interests, and instructs students individually and in groups. Establishing a clear objective for all lessons, units, and projects, motivating and developing creativity and critical-thinking strategy in the classroom has been his strengths.
Dinesh Pimple
Visual Arts Facilitator
Mr. Dinesh Pimple has completed his Master of Fine Arts from Sir, J J School of Art in Mumbai 2006. He has 10 years of teaching experience. He has done more than 30 group exhibition and 2 Solo exhibition all across India. He has won Camlin Award in professional category at National level in 2011. He has got scholarship and Junior fellowship from Ministry of culture, Govt. of India, New Delhi.
Julie Metz
Music Instructional Coach
BA Music Education, Summa Cum Laude; California teaching credentials in Music and Multiple Subject
Happy to meet you! Inspired by what research shows about the impact of music training on the development of children’s brains, I built music programs and curriculums for several top-ranking schools in California. I also co-authored the charter and helped establish one of the first charter schools in California, Sherman Thomas Charter School, where the music and Kindergarten programs I formed, grew to waiting-list-only admissions. Through the years, I have also founded several music schools and coached beginnner to professional level musicians. It’s a joy to be here now, serving the children of NYA!503
Renu Sharma
Hindi Language Facilitator
B.Com, M.A. (Economics), N.T.T, B.Ed., Diploma in Fine Arts
Meet Renu Sharma, a passionate Hindi teacher dedicated to fostering a love for the Hindi language and its rich cultural heritage. She believes that Hindi is more than just a means of communication, it serves as a gateway to understanding the vibrant shade of Indian traditions, literature, and values. She has inspired countless students over her impressive 10+ years of teaching experience. Renu holds a Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com), a Master’s in Economics (MA), and has further enriched her qualifications with a Nursery Teacher Training (NTT), Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.), and a Diploma in Fine Arts. In Renu’s classroom, every lesson is an adventure. Students explore everything from classic poetry to modern prose and dive into the essence of traditional festivals and contemporary cinema. Her goal is to enhance language skills while instilling a deep appreciation for the diverse culture that Hindi embodies.
Join her for an exciting year of learning and growth!
Ruhi
Homeroom Facilitator
I am an enthusiastic and caring early childhood educator. With over 3 years of experience I try to create a warm and nurturing environment where curiosity and creativity are encouraged everyday.
My teaching approach focuses on sensorial experiences to help children refine their sense of touch. I believe each child is unique and I strive to build a strong foundation for their future growth.
Chris Vincent Darla
Music Facilitator
Chris Vincent Darla brings over five years of experience in teaching and mentoring students in music. In addition to being an accomplished educator, he is also a skilled music producer, having collaborated with various artists and prominent production houses. Widely recognized as a worship leader and vocalist across South India, he brings passion and versatility to his role.
His work with reputed schools and students of all age groups has equipped him with the ability to adapt his teaching methods to meet diverse learning needs. He inspires students to experience music not just as a subject, but as a way of life.
Administrative Staff
Operations Manager
Admin Manager
Academic Coordinator
Marketing Manager & EA
Admissions & Office Manager
Anil John Baby
Operations Manager
With a strong foundation in both sports and engineering, Anil brings a dynamic blend of operational expertise to New York Academy. His journey began on the football and cricket fields, where early exposure to competitive sports instilled in him the values of teamwork, composure under pressure, and a deep sense of sportsmanship. For him, the sports arena is a great equalizer — where every player shares the responsibility to perform and remains united by the common goal of excellence.
After completing a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Anil transitioned into the sports and education industry to follow his passion, earning a Master’s in Sports Management. Over the past four years, he has played a key role in sports operations, combining his technical background with a strong focus on logistics, planning, and leadership. His work has consistently centered on promoting an athlete’s mindset and integrating it into holistic education.
In addition to his professional interests, Anil is also passionate about mathematics and believes in the power of interdisciplinary learning. At New York Academy, he aims to contribute to a forward-thinking, student-centered environment through efficient operations and a commitment to excellence.
E Sreedhar
Admin Manager
Sreedhar, Admin Manager of NYA comes with 29 years of extensive experience in different fields of administration such as office manager, accounts in charge, MIS, faculty coordinator etc. His experience is an added asset to the organisation. He is self-motivated and highly capable of achieving deadlines. He easily adapts to the new environment and latest technological trends. His team describes him as confident, balanced, hardworking and an excellent decision maker. He provides secretarial support to management, supervises and ensures proper work flow.
Lynda Mandam
Academic Coordinator
Masters in Arts, Associate Montessori Internationale (AMI) from Netherlands, Early Child Education from Canada,
My passion to build and shape young minds has led me into this noble profession. My desire to foster and accommodate the individual needs of children has gravitated me toward the Pedagogy of Montessori. I am a strong believer in supporting and nurturing the development of a holistic child; physical, social, emotional, and cognitive.
My experience with teaching is more than 20 years. I have worked in Canada for over a decade and the remaining years of my experience from in India. My love, respect, compassion and patience for children is immense and I am highly enthusiastic and motivated to be a part of children’s journey of life. I have learned and grown from just being around these children; learning is a continuous, consistent and integral part of my life.
Currently in India, at NYA. I am looking forward to bridging the gap between the child, parent and teacher, as we all have to collaborate to work together toward building holistic children; citizens of the future!
Romana Adil Khan
Marketing Manager & EA
BBA, MBA (Marketing) & PGDM in Special Education & Counselling
A passionate Marketing Manager & Executive Assistant to the Head of the School with a proven track record of driving brand growth and revenue through strategic campaigns and innovations. Her experience of 8+ years demonstrates a history of working in the hospitality and education industry. Her skills sprawl in the fields of marketing, content writing, administration, social media management and providing learning assistance for children with ADHD.
Stuti Sharma
Admissions & Office Manager
Curious, people-loving, and always on the move —worked with international airlines and handled admissions for an international boarding school taught her the value of communication, cultural sensitivity, and making people feel at home, wherever they are.She enjoys connecting with others, organising meaningful events, and creating smooth & welcoming experiences.