Kiddie Academy of Henderson

Nannette “Nettie” Barba

Family Experience Leader

  Meet Ms Nannette Barba aka Ms Nettie! Our incredible Family Experience Leader here at Kiddie Academy of Henderson   Ms. Nettie has been part of our Kiddie Academy family for seven years and brings over 20 years of experience supporting toddlers and their families. Many of our families know her as a caring and dedicated Lead Teacher who has built strong, meaningful relationships within our community.   Ms. Nettie’s dedication to early childhood education has been recognized through earning her Child Development Associate (CDA) from UNR in 2023, being named Kiddie Academy of Henderson Educator of the Year in 2023, and receiving a nomination for the Nevada Department’s Early Childhood Educator of the Year Award.  

Juliann Pupa

Eagles (Four Year Old Program) Lead Teacher

Ms Julie is the Lead Teacher of the Eagles classroom and brings many years of experience in early childhood education. She has worked with infants and toddlers since her early twenties and is passionate about nurturing young learners. A proud mother of two, Ms. Julie has also served as a Girl Scout leader and enjoys sharing creativity, music, and hands-on learning with children. She loves teaching, crafting, animals, and the ocean, and looks forward to partnering with families to support each child’s growth.

Melissa Duran-Galdo

Academy Director

Melissa brings over 10 years of experience in early childhood education and a deep love for children and families. Originally from Peru, she earned her Bachelor of Science in Educational Psychology from the University of Lima and spent more than four years working as a psychologist before continuing her journey in the U.S. She later earned her Child Development Associate (CDA) credential from the University of Nevada, Reno in 2023.Since joining Kiddie Academy in May 2022, Melissa has grown alongside our community, helping build a nurturing Infant Program and supporting our team through thoughtful leadership and care. Her calm presence, professionalism, and heart for early childhood have earned her Kiddie Academy’s Educator of the Year 2024 and a nomination for the Nevada Department of Education’s Early Childhood Educator of the Year Award. 

Sadie Quiroga

Bobcats (Three Year Old Prgram ) Lead Teacher

Ms Sadie has been a valued member of the Kiddie Academy team for nearly four years and is currently the Bobcats classroom teacher. She holds her CDA and is continuing her education in child development. Ms. Sadie is passionate about supporting children as they reach important milestones and enjoys creating a nurturing, engaging learning environment. Outside the classroom, she enjoys the outdoors, painting, and photography.