Meet Our Team

Ms. Sofia
Director

Sofia has been a part of the Virginia Hill community for fifteen years, serving as a parent, a teacher for both the two-year-old and Pre-K classes, and an administrator.
With over 30 years of childcare experience across both public and private sectors, she brings a deep expertise in supporting students with complex behavioral needs.
Her career has spanned the globe, ranging from work in orphanages in Africa to private academies in diverse international settings.
"I am constantly learning from my students," Sofia shares. "My passion lies in supporting children with special needs and ensuring they receive the best possible care. As an autism mom, I feel I have a unique advantage in understanding the multifaceted aspects of child development."
Now entering her second year as Director, Sofia remains dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for all families.

Ms. Justine
Operations Manager

Ms. Justine is a graduate from the University of Mary Washington with a degree in Business Administration. She has spent her entire life as a member of Virginia Hills Church and Preschool thanks to her father, Pastor Purdy. She loves animals, art, music, and cooking.

Ms. Komal
Pre-K Teacher (Dinosaur Class)

Although she began her career as a flight attendant, Ms. Komal’s desire to work with children led her to a teaching career. She has been working at Virginia Hills Preschool for 14 years and loves it. Ms. Komal earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in 1996 from Karachi, Pakistan. She is married with two boys and loves to bake, cook, and enjoy nature.

Ms. Gissel
Pre-K Assistant (Dinosaur Class)

Ms. Gissel is originally from Mexico. She moved to the United States 5 years ago. She is married and has 2 beautiful daughters, Sofía and Elena. She likes to spend her free time with her family, go for walks, cook, and loves to watch movies. She is very happy to be a part of the Virginia Hills Preschool family.

Ms. Becky
Fundraising/Special Event Coordinator

Ms. Becky, an Alexandria native, has been a part of the Virginia Hills Preschool family since 2023. She has been a preschool teacher for 4 years, teaching children aged 18 months to 3 years old. Caring for and teaching children is such a joyful part of her life. While staying at home with her two children when they were younger, she discovered all the fun things we adults can do to encourage children's growth and learning at a young age. Prior to teaching, she worked in various settings as a Certified Athletic Trainer and elementary PE teacher. Ms. Becky looks forward to meeting you all soon!

Ms. Colleen
Puppy Teacher

Born and raised in Richmond, VA, Ms. Colleen attended the College of William and Mary earning a Bachelor of Arts in History and Elementary Education. While attending, she met and later married her college sweetheart. They have been married 20 years and have three wonderful children. All three of Ms. Colleen’s children have attended Virginia Hills with her youngest being a current student. Prior to starting her family, Ms. Colleen taught for several years in Fairfax County Public Schools in Kindergarten and First Grade. She has two large dogs – Dug (120 lb Cane Corso) and Nala (65 lb lab mix). In her spare time, Ms. Colleen enjoys reading, spending time outdoors, and home decorating.