Preschool Teachers
2's Class
Mekenzie Jackson has six years of experience in private and homeschool education, as well as early preschool instruction. She is passionate about creating nurturing, engaging learning environments where children feel empowered to grow and discover.
She holds a bachelor's degree in Sociology from Fisk University, which has deepened her understanding of child development and the importance of community in education. Her teaching philosophy centers on helping children develop a lifelong love of learning by fostering curiosity, confidence, and connection. She believes that when students feel supported and inspired, they not only thrive academically but also become thoughtful, compassionate members of their communities.
3's Class
Melissa Saha (Lead Teacher) has been working in early childhood education since 2002 and has served as the Lead Teacher for the Twos’ Class at ADS since 2004. She is married with two children and enjoys spending time in the great outdoors, reading, and spending time with her granddaughters.
Melissa has a passion for teaching young children and believes every child is a unique individual whose differences should be celebrated. She strives each day to create a fun, engaging, and nurturing learning environment, utilizing creativity, flexibility, and numerous teachable moments. With patience, love, and a good sense of humor, Melissa feels truly grateful to spend each day helping her students learn and grow.
Romina Riccardi Costa (Assistant Teacher), originally from Venezuela, pursued her studies in journalism. Prior to becoming a stay-at-home mom, she gained experience working in radio, TV, and corporate team-building events. Over the past five years, Romina has dedicated herself to being a nurturing caregiver for her daughter. With a strong passion for integrating different cultures, she has been teaching her daughter both Spanish and Italian.
Romina is passionate about working with children and her desire to be part of a diverse and inclusive learning environment led her to Annunciation Day School, where her daughter also attends. In her free time, Romina enjoys reading, engaging in family activities, and watching documentaries, further fueling her curiosity and passion for learning.
Pre-K Class
Dayna Straus joins Annunciation Day School with 7 years of teaching experience in DeKalb County and City Schools of Decatur, along with 10 years supporting national health education programs focused on early childhood wellness and development. She holds a Master of Science in International Affairs from Georgia Institute of Technology and a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish and Political Science from the University of Georgia.
Committed to nurturing the whole child—academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually—Dayna is excited to teach in a diverse, faith-centered community. Her classroom celebrates each child’s unique background while building curiosity, confidence, and kindness through play and hands-on learning. She works closely with parents to support each child’s growth and development.
In her free time, she enjoys spending time outdoors, attending sporting events with her family, tending to her flower garden, playing the piano, enjoying live musical performances, and trying new recipes.
Amy Defru (Assistant Teacher) has over a decade of experience working in early education settlings across Atlanta. She loves working with young students to help shape the minds of tomorrow.
She has two children, who work attend ADS, in 6th grade and 4th grade.