Elka Francisco, Director
Elka Francisco lives in Saline with her husband, Adam, their daughter Sophia (born August 2006), and son Michael (born August 2009). Sophia and Michael are enrolled at the center. Elka grew up in Charlevoix, Michigan and received her BA in Elementary Education from the University of Michigan and her MA in Early Childhood Education from Eastern Michigan University. She holds her teaching certificate for grades K-8 with an Early Childhood Endorsement.
Elka taught second grade in Detroit Public Schools for 6 years. Most recently, she was the director of the Lenawee Intermediate School District’s PREP Academy, an alternative high school for pregnant and parenting teens with a licensed childcare for birth to 5.
She has always cared about quality in early childhood education, but having to choose childcare for her own daughter has intensifiedher belief that "quality" is primarily about the environment---both physical and emotional--and the variety of experiences that are provided for the children.
Her goal for the Vineyard Children’s Center is that every child feels delighted in, safe, and cared for; and that every parent feels good that their child is in the center's care.
Don Bromley, Administrator
Don serves as Administrator for the Vineyard Children's Center, as well as Executive Pastor for the Vineyard Church of Ann Arbor. Don is married to Julie Chilimigras Bromley; they live in Ypsilanti with daughters Eve (born August 2005) and Brynne (born November 2008), both of whom who are enrolled at the center. Don grew up in California and received his BS in engineering from UC Berkeley. Before joining the Vineyard staff in 1997, Don worked at Ford Motor Company. He received his MA (with thesis) in Biblical Studies at Ashland Theological Seminary.
Kruti Rai, Preschool Lead Teacher
Miss Kruti (pronounced "Kroo-tee") joined the Vineyard Children's Center in June of 2009. She is completing her bachelor's degree in education at Baker College and has 7 years of experience in childcare. Kruti is friendly, calm, and loves children. She enjoys making each day an enjoyable and rich experience for the kids.
Miss Kaitlyn graduated from the University of Michigan in April and received her degree in psychology. During college, she spent time working with children of different ages in the Ann Arbor community, and took several courses in child development. After graduation, Kaitlyn spent 3 months in Haiti working at an orphanage with children ages birth to 10 years. She loves children and is very excited to teach the toddlers and 2-year-olds!
Miss Vanja (pronounced "Vanya") is our lead nursery teacher. She received her degree and teacher certification from Belgrade University (Serbia) and taught geography in elementary and middle schools for six years. Vanja loves little children, and has worked as a full-time nanny in the New York area for many years. She is certified in infant and child CPR.
