Meet Michelle Hykin – Director, Lead Teacher
Hello! I was born and raised in Latham, NY where I lived through high school. I attended SUNY Geneseo where I majored in Childhood Education and Spanish. From there I went to SUNY Stony Brook to get my Master’s Degree in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. After graduation, I moved to Syracuse where I taught K-5 English as a Second Language for over 7 years. After 14 years living away, my husband Sam and I moved back to Latham and enrolled our son, Jackson, at Calvary Methodist Preschool. During that time I served on the Preschool Board, and volunteered in the school. Since then our daughter, Kelsey, has also attended Calvary Methodist Preschool – with her mama as teacher!
These days when I’m not at school you can find me at the North Colonie Youth Baseball Fields – where my son plays travel baseball, and my daughter just started her t-ball journey. If I’m not there, I’m at one of the many ice rinks in the area chauffeuring both kids around to hockey practices and games. I am also a member of the Calvary Methodist Church, and am active with the Family Ministries Team.
In my free time, I like to craft and read. I love ice cream, animals, and wearing pajamas.
Meet Stacey Hartman – Lead Teacher
Hi, my name is Stacey Hartman. I have grown up and lived in Colonie my whole life. I attended HVCC where I received my Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education and then I transferred to The College of Saint Rose where I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education.
I absolutely love working at Calvary Methodist Preschool. I have been with Calvary for about 6 years. I love watching the children learn and grow!
My husband Brian and I have 2 children. My oldest is Ayden. He attends CBA where he is big into football and also plays lacrosse. Ellie attends St.Pius X School and is also a graduate of Calvary Methodist Preschool. Ellie enjoys taking tap, jazz, and ballet at Art in Motion in Loudonville.
When we are not busy running to sporting events or dance classes we enjoy our family time of going out to dinner or having a good old family movie night!
In my free time I enjoy doing DIY projects around the house. Also always looking for new yummy recipes to make for my family!
Meet Hunter Benson – Assistant Teacher
My name is Hunter Benson and I am originally from Virginia Beach, Virginia and moved to Albany 10 years ago with my husband Mark, and my four children Vandy Grace, Lydon, Hannum Leigh, and MJ. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Business from Flagler College in Florida and an Associate’s degree in Advertising and Marketing from the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City. I formerly worked in Development and Alumni Relations at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia. My children are my true passion in life and now I can’t wait to learn, play and grow with your children too!
My oldest daughter, Vandy sings and acts with King’s Kids, Park Playhouse, and in the Shaker High School Music Department. She also plays field hockey at Shaker High School. Lydon runs track at Shaker Middle School and she and Hannum both enjoy competitive dance with Premier Dance Performance Performing Arts Center in Clifton Park. Hannum also performs right here at Calvary in King’s Kids and MJ looks forward to joining his sisters next year in the kid’s show. MJ also participates in Latham Circle Soccer and Shaker Lacrosse.
When not attending their community activities we can be found at many University at Albany Great Dane sporting events.
This is my third year teaching with Calvary United Methodist Preschool. Lydon, Hannum, and MJ all attended Calvary and we love the community that feels extended family here.
Meet Tori Galvin – Assistant Teacher
Hello! My name is Tori Galvin and I am so happy to be a part of Calvary Methodist Preschool. I have my Bachelor’s degree in Childhood Education with a concentration in English from SUNY New Paltz and went on to the University at Albany to get my Master’s degree in Special Education.
After 34 years of dancing myself, I also taught movement and dance classes for children ages 18 months through elementary level. I have loved helping children build their self confidence and nurture a love of learning ever since my first teenage job as a camp counselor and I cannot wait to continue to do so with your child!
I grew up in Troy and currently live there with my family. My husband, Tim, and I are the proud parents of two daughters. Our oldest, Ada, is a proud graduate of Calvary and our youngest, Quincy, is currently attending. As a family, we can usually be found on the soccer field, visiting our local library, and throwing some amazing living room dance parties. I also really love a good scary movie night, but for some reason, no one else in my family wants to join!