Our Teachers

Inna Furmanova holds a Ph.D. in Education from the Academy of Education in Moscow and a Master of Science in School Psychology from Moscow State Pedagogical University. She is an experienced educator and child development specialist with a strong background in early childhood education. Since 2010, she has served as the owner and director of the Kangaroo Child Development Center, known for its individualized, play-based learning approach. Inna Furmanova emphasizes the importance of nurturing cognitive, emotional, and social growth in every child. Her leadership continues to shape a high-quality educational environment that supports each child's unique potential.

Tatyana Chechurina, M.S. in Special Education, graduated from Touro College in 2000. She also studied the German language at Nezhin Pedagogical College. Tatyana has over 10 years of experience as a Head Teacher at a daycare center at the New York City College of Technology (CUNY). Tatyana has a background in child development through various innovative programs. 

Currently, Tatyana works in the Human Services field, where she continues to apply her educational knowledge to help families access critical support and resources. She is passionate about education, community outreach, and empowering individuals through informed care.

Dmitri Shevelev is a FIDE Master in chess and the founder of MyChessFamily, a New York City–based chess school providing high-quality chess education for children. With over 16 years of experience teaching both children and adults, Dmitri has helped countless students enhance their critical thinking, strategic planning, and decision-making skills through chess. As a competitor, he has participated in numerous prestigious international tournaments, earning the FIDE Master (FM) title and gaining extensive experience in high-level play, much like the accomplished music teachers show in cultivating their students' talents.

Marina Duvidzon is an accomplished artist, art teacher, and interior designer with dual degrees in Architecture and Computer Science. Originally from Russia, she began teaching art in kindergarten while still in high school and has continued to teach both children and adults throughout her career. Marina currently teaches in her studio and at various schools.

With a passion for fine art and design, Marina believes that arts education offers powerful tools for personal growth and expression. Her teaching emphasizes creativity, confidence, problem-solving, perseverance, focus, and non-verbal communication. She sees art as a vital pathway for understanding oneself and others, cultivating skills that enrich both academic and professional success.