Donna Conklin—Owner
Donna purchased Pattycake Playhouse in April 2005. Since then she has expanded the school with a large addition, doubling the number of students and families served. Prior to Pattycake, Donna worked for large corporations and has an acute awareness of ethical business practices. Being a mother of two children who attended Pattycake, she is very aware of what parents look for in a high quality preschool program. On the heels of Pattycake’s success. Donna works diligently volunteering in the community and intuitively sees the threads of opportunity, bringing them together to help fulfill the missions at hand.
Email Donna Conklin: donna@pattycakeplayhouse.com
Michelle Pagano— Director
Michelle began working as the Director at Pattycake Playhouse in April 2005. Prior to her role as Director, she taught in the Marlboro School District for two years. Michelle did her undergraduate and graduate studies at Mount Saint Mary College. She earned a Bachelor’s Degree in English with NYS teaching certifications in Elementary and Special Education and a Master’s Degree in Education with a NYS teaching certification in Literacy. Michelle enjoys working with her staff to reflect on and improve program practices and to stay up to date on current educational trends. As a mother herself, Michelle understands the importance of quality child care combined with a solid foundation for Kindergarten readiness.
Email Michelle Pagano: pattycakenewburgh@gmail.com
Allaura Fitzgerald (Pagano)— Assistant Director
Allaura holds a degree in Digital Media Production and after working in television straight out of college, she found her passion was in childcare. She began working as an Assistant Teacher at Pattycake Playhouse in August 2018. In 2020, Allaura took time at home to raise her daughter and returned to Pattycake Playhouse in 2023 stepping into the role of Assistant Director. This position allows Allaura to combine her creative background, hands-on experience, and leadership skills to support both staff and families. Allaura is now a proud mom of 2 girls, who both attend Pattycake Playhouse. Allaura thrives on making each family feel welcome and safe, as if their children were her own.
Email Allaura Fitzgerald: allaura.pattycakeplayhouse@gmail.com