“A great preschool doesn’t just prepare children for school—it nurtures them for life.”
— Kids Come First
Natasha Jarrett
Founder, Director & Lead Teacher, Kids Come First Preschool
Hi! I’m Natasha Jarrett, a lifelong educator, mom, and the heart behind Kids Come First Preschool.
For over a decade, I’ve dedicated my life to helping children grow, thrive, and fall in love with learning. With certifications in Childhood Education, Literacy, Special Education, and English as a Second Language, I bring both deep expertise and a whole lot of heart into the classroom. I’ve had the joy of teaching in schools across New York—from Wayland-Cohocton to Queens to Rochester—and every child I’ve taught has reminded me of one thing: kids learn best when they feel safe, valued, and loved.
That’s why I started Kids Come First. I wanted to create a place where children are not only prepared academically, but also nurtured emotionally and socially. A place where their unique personalities shine, and where their first school experiences are filled with joy, wonder, and connection.
At Kids Come First, we teach the whole child—with play, discovery, kindness, and creativity at the heart of everything we do. Every child who walks through our doors is known by name and celebrated for exactly who they are.
If you’re looking for a preschool where your child will be cherished, challenged, and truly seen—you’ve found it. I can’t wait to welcome you to our community!
Professional Certifications:
• New York State Professional Certification in Childhood Education (Grades 1–6)
• Students with Disabilities (Grades 1–6)
• Literacy (Birth-Grade 6)
• Literacy (Grades 5–12)
• Supplementary Certification in English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)
Emily Surujlall
Curriculum & Creative Content Partner
Hofstra University – B.S. in Early Childhood/Childhood Education, M.S. in TESOL (in progress)
Emily Surujlall brings creativity, thoughtfulness, and a strong commitment to meaningful education to her role at Kids Come First Preschool. While working toward her degrees at Hofstra University, she supports the development of curriculum and digital content that is current, inclusive, and aligned with the values of integrity, respect, safety, and trust. Working behind the scenes, Emily helps shape the preschool’s learning experience and family communication through purposeful visual and written content. Her unique blend of educational insight and thoughtful content design strengthens every element she influences, ensuring that everything from classroom materials to digital messaging clearly reflects the heart of Kids Come First.
Hunter Kostraba
Enrichment Specialist
B.S. in Vocal Music Education Roberts Wesleyan University
Hunter Kostraba brings joy, creativity, and a love of music to Kids Come First Preschool as our Enrichment Specialist. With a Bachelor of Science in Vocal Music Education from Roberts Wesleyan University and over four years of experience working with children through private vocal and instrumental lessons, Hunter blends professional training with a playful, engaging approach that gets even the shyest children singing, moving, and exploring rhythm.
His music sessions are filled with fun, imagination, and age-appropriate musical experiences that support language development, motor skills, and social-emotional growth. Whether it’s a sing-along, rhythm game, or music-inspired movement, Hunter helps children discover the joy of expression and creativity through sound.
At Kids Come First, enrichment is more than a special class—it’s a vital part of nurturing the whole child, and Hunter brings that philosophy to life in every note he shares.
Kristina Lowry
Kristina Lowry is a compassionate, dedicated educator with a natural gift for working with young children. Her caregiving experience began at home, where she helped raise her younger sister and volunteered throughout her school years to support student activities and events.
As a foster caregiver, Kristina developed a deep understanding of children’s emotional and developmental needs, creating safe and supportive environments where children can grow and thrive. She also brings leadership and mentorship experience from managing a team of younger peers in a fast-paced work setting—strengthening her skills in communication, patience, and classroom management.
Kristina’s warm, responsive teaching style helps every child feel known, supported, and ready to learn. She is proud to be part of the Kids Come First team, where she brings heart, structure, and joy to every day in the classroom