Meet the Teachers

Ms. Alexis Breeden

3K Lead Teacher

abreeden@sjwca.org

Employed Since: 2020


Alexis Breeden is the newest Kindergarten Teacher. Although this is her second year teaching at SJWCA its her 4th year teaching little ones. Mrs. Breeden loves knowing she takes part in the learning of the next teacher, doctor and or President.


Ms. Breeden holds a Bachelors Degree from Brooklyn College. Ms. Breeden recently graduated Magna Cum Laude with her Masters of Science in Early Childhood Education and Special Education. Ms. Breeden is currently working on her NYS License and Certification.


Alexis is a native of Brooklyn and currently lives in Staten Island with her husband. When she is not teaching she enjoys spending time with family and friends. On Sundays, Alexis is the Children’s Church Leader at her church.


Ms. Amanda Cruz

3K Assistant Teacher

acruz@sjwca.org

Employed Since: 2022

Amanda is one of the newest PreK teachers to be joining St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Academy. Although this will be Amanda’s first year teaching at SJWCA, it will be her 4th year teaching 3K. Amanda finished her Childhood Development Associates in December of 2021 and is looking forward to continuing her studies in Early Childhood Education.

Amanda was born and still resides in Cypress Hills, Brooklyn. In her free time, Amanda enjoys spending time with her family, shopping, and listening to all types of music.


Ms. Joan DeSanto

3K Assistant Teacher

jdesanto@sjwca.org

Employed Since:

Ms. Joan graduated from the College of Staten Island with an Associates Degree in Child Care. After working in various Child Care Facilities for over 30 years, Ms. Joan was fortunate enough to become part of the SJWCA family in 2012. She began as a substitute teacher and is now a full time assistant in our 3K classrooms.

Ms. Joan is a Brooklyn native who grew up in Park Slope and now resides in Bay Ridge. She loves to travel, explore museums, and spend time with family & friends. Ms. Joan expresses that her greatest joy is seeing her students face new challenges and then build their confidence while continuing to grow.

Ms. Joan’s favorite quote is from Winnie The Pooh, “You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.” (A.A. Milne)