Welcome to Our Community

At La Maison du Soleil, we embrace a child-led philosophy that nurtures curiosity and fosters a love for learning in a diverse and inclusive environment.

Our Core Principles

La Maison du Soleil PEA is dedicated to fostering a nurturing environment where every child can thrive. Our mission emphasizes curiosity and joy in learning, ensuring that children develop as independent and collaborative learners. We uphold values such as equality, respect, and partnership, which guide our interactions with families and the community. Our educators, like Marie Dupont and Jean-Pierre Martin, bring extensive experience and a passion for child-led education, ensuring that each child’s unique potential is recognized and nurtured.

Our Story

At La Maison du Soleil, our journey began in 2023 with a simple yet profound vision: to create a nurturing and inspiring environment where every child could flourish. We are more than just an educational institution; we are a family operation built on a foundation of love, care, and a deep understanding of child development. Together, we form a dedicated and compassionate team that truly cares about the growth, happiness, and success of every child entrusted to our care.

Chelsea Tomboris Slade
Founder & Director

Chelsea Athena Tomboris Slade leads La Maison du Soleil with her passion for fostering the growth and well-being of young minds. With a Bachelor’s degree in psychology, a Minor in human services, and a Master’s degree in psychology, Chelsea brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our educational approach. Her diverse experiences as a head educator at The Goddard School, a student mentor, and a nanny have shaped her understanding of the unique needs and potential of every child.

Maxwell Castro

Para-professional

Max brings boundless energy and enthusiasm to his role as a paraprofessional teacher’s assistant at La Maison du Soleil. A former Montclair High School football player, Max is committed to keeping kids active and engaged. In addition to his work with children, he serves as a volunteer firefighter and is pursuing a degree in Fire Science. Max’s dedication to both education and community service makes him a valuable member of our team. Fun fact: Max is also Chelsea’s brother and Maribel’s son, adding a warm family connection to our La Maison du Soleil community.

Maribel Rey
Curriculum Specialist

Maribel Rey brings warmth and organizational expertise to our team as an educator’s assistant. With over 20 years of experience as a Spanish Language Interpreter for New York State, Maribel ensures a smooth and welcoming environment for our children and families. Her dedication to creating a nurturing space is an essential part of our community.