Carlyn Rahynes

Founding Principal, Learning Through Play Pre-K Center, The Bronx, New York

As founding principal of Learning Through Play Pre-K Center, Carlyn Rahynes oversees the education and care of 304 children who are 3 and 4 years old. Part of former Mayor Bill de Blasio’s initiative to provide free prekindergarten to all 4-year-old children in the city, Learning Through Play offers both inclusive and special education 3-K and pre-K classes to children living in New York, especially those in the South Bronx. Its three centers were among the first standalone pre-K facilities in the city’s public school system and among the first sites to welcome 3-year-olds to New York City’s public schools. Through the city’s Department of Education, the program is now in the process of applying for NAEYC accreditation.

Carlyn’s role is the culmination of years spent as a teacher, instructional leader, education advisory board member, and even a presenter before the National Assembly of Quebec, Canada. Here, she reflects on leadership and lessons learned as well the role NAEYC plays in her practice.