Health Director

Hi, my name is Francesca Albertelli, and I currently reside in Sayville, Long Island, New York, with my husband, Louis, our three children, and our dog, Valli. I was born and raised in East Islip and have spent most of my summers in Saltaire, Fire Island, where my grandfather built our family home in the 1950s. Some of my fondest childhood memories were made there, and I feel incredibly fortunate to now share that same experience and create new memories with my own family.

I am excited to serve as the new Health Director for the Saltaire Day Camp and truly look forward to this opportunity. I currently work as a nurse for Western Suffolk BOCES, where I care for children with special needs. I have been a nurse since 1994 and have also worked in pharmacy for more than 30 years, experiences that have strengthened my passion for caring for others and supporting children and families.

Outside of work, I love everything about the outdoors. I am truly a beach person and enjoy every moment of a summer day by the water. In my free time, I enjoy playing tennis and compete in both co-ed and women’s USTA leagues. I look forward to working with everyone and helping create a fun, safe, and memorable summer for all of the campers and families.

Program Director

My name is Ryan Cassidy, and I am excited to be returning for my second summer at Saltaire Day Camp! Being part of such an amazing team was an incredible experience, and I look forward to becoming even more involved in helping create unforgettable summer memories for the campers. I have been coming to Fire Island since 1986 and truly love everything about beach life. I am the proud father of twins, James and Adeline, who are seven years old and soon to be eight. We live in Brightwaters, but spend most weekends throughout the year at our beach house in Fair Harbor.

Professionally, I have been a Special Education teacher with the Bay Shore School District for the past twenty-four years. I taught self-contained third and fourth grade classes for seventeen years and currently work as a third grade inclusion teacher. When I am not at camp, you can usually find me at the beach with my children, exercising, hosting family dinners, or spending time playing and clamming in the bay.

Recreation Assistant, Yoga & Mindfulness Specialist

Hi Campers and Families! My name is Vickie and I’m so excited to return as the Recreation Assistant this summer! I was born and raised in Saltaire as a “year-rounder,” and spent many summers at this very camp. I am very excited to also be teaching the kids yoga and mindfulness this year. I have been a certified yoga instructor for the past 10 years, and it brings me so much joy to be able to share the practice with the campers 🙂

Camp Aquatics Director

Hi everyone, my name is Meg Schou and I am the Camp Aquatics Director. I was born and raised in West Islip, NY, where I still live with my husband and two children. I have spent every summer of my life between Kismet and Fair Harbor and I have proudly worked for the Village of Saltaire for over 20 years. I started as a lifeguard in 2006, and I have been growing my water safety education and certifications since then. I love aquatics!

From the months of September – June I can be found on the mainland teaching Health Education and First Response classes. I have a bachelor’s degree in Health Sciences & K-12 Education from Towson University (Go Tigers!) and a master’s degree in Special Education. In my spare time I love to spend time with my family and friends, swim, run and read. We have a fun summer planned, and I can’t wait for it to start!

Bay Specialist

Hi! My name is Jazmyn Knight, and I am the new Bay Specialist. I have been coming to Saltiare my whole life and attended camp myself. For the past 12 years, I have worked for the Village in some capacity, either at the camp or lifeguarding. During the year, I live in Boston, where I went to college, am now a teacher, and am also getting an M.Ed. in Elementary Education! On my off days, I can be found babysitting, working out, and hopefully improving my tennis skills. I cannot wait to meet all of our new campers, see some friendly faces, and get everyone excited about swimming in the bay!

Ocean Specialist

I am a lifelong swimmer and ocean enthusiast whose connection to Fire Island began in childhood while spending summers in Atlantique. Those early experiences fostered a deep appreciation and respect for the ocean that has remained with me throughout my life.

My passion for ocean safety and education led me to serve with the Jones Beach Lifeguard Corps for 17 summers, where I developed extensive experience in ocean awareness, water safety, teamwork, and leadership. After raising my three daughters, I continued my commitment to coastal service as a member of Saltaire Ocean Rescue from 2013–2014.

Professionally, I am a veteran middle school teacher in West Islip with experience teaching Math and English. I am also certified in Biology and General Science through 12th grade. I enjoy helping young people build confidence, curiosity, and respect for the natural  world, and I look forward to sharing my love of the ocean and Fire Island with campers in the Village of Saltaire.

Field Program Director

Hey everyone! This will be my 11th summer at the Saltaire Day Camp and my 7th summer as the Field Program Director. I started as a group leader from 2016–2019, which sparked my admiration for this amazing community. I’m from West Islip, NY, and have spent the past 12 years teaching high school English at a top Manhattan school. I have an almost 2-year-old daughter, Shea, and a new baby girl due this July! I can’t wait to see them both as future Saltaire campers in the next few years!

As the Field Program Director, I’m thrilled to have your child joining us for what promises to be a summer full of adventure, learning, and growth. Our team has been hard at work planning dynamic outdoor activities, team challenges, and sport-based experiences designed to build confidence, friendships, and unforgettable memories.

I’m committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and engaging environment where every camper can thrive.

Here’s to a fantastic Summer 2026! Let’s play ball!

Field Program Assistant

Hi everyone! My name is Erin and I’m excited for my third summer at the Saltaire Day Camp. I am also excited for my role as Field Program assistant! I am a physical education major with a coaching minor graduating from Westfield State University this spring. In addition, I played lacrosse at Westfield. I have had great opportunities working with kids throughout my lifetime and I cannot wait to continue that this summer! I love the summer, beach, and sports! I can’t wait to meet you all if you are new, and see you again if you are returning!

Art Program Director

Hi everyone! My name is Lauren and this is my fourth year as the Art Program Director. I was born and raised in Islip, NY, currently residing in Farmingdale. Over the years I have spent countless summers exploring the Fire Island seashore. Growing up, I have fond memories of summers spent at my grandparent’s house in Lonelyville, selling painted seashells and cups of lemonade to people near the ferry docks, riding bikes with friends on the boardwalk, and watching magical sunsets on the bay. Fire Island has and always will hold a special place in my heart.

A little about my experiences: I graduated with my BFA in Art Education from LIU CW Post, and MS in Visual Art Education from SUNY New Paltz. I have experience teaching art in both public and private schools on Long Island and NYC for 8+ years. In my spare time I enjoy drawing/painting, kayaking, and spending time at the beach.

I’m very happy to be part of the magic Fire Island has to offer, by bringing an amazing art program to the Saltaire Day Camp. I look forward to an inspiring summer guiding your children to cultivate creativity, self-expression, artistic exploration, and forming memories that will last a lifetime.

Art Program Assistant

Hi! My name is Julia and this is my second year as the Art Program Assistant. I am a practicing artist and art teacher from Commack, NY. I’ve been creating, building, and imagining for as long as I can remember! I’ve always believed that creativity is more than just making art; it’s about curiosity, exploration, and play.

Over the past few years, I’ve earned my BFA in Production Design from Pace University NYC and my MA in Art Education from Brooklyn College.

Before teaching art, I worked in the art departments of film and television productions, collaborated on theatrical scenic designs, and helped bring immersive installation art to restaurants and shops across the city. While I loved working in these creative industries, I realized something was missing: a true sense of support and encouragement for artists. That realization inspired me to shift paths and step into education.

Now, my goal is to make creativity fun and accessible for everyone. I’ve worked with young artists across Long Island and I’m so excited to bring that energy and passion to camp. I believe every camper deserves a space where they feel free to express themselves and make something magical!

Science Director

Hi! I’m Mica (they/them), and I will be the camp Science Director for my very first summer with Saltaire Day Camp! Currently I am living in Lake Grove on Long Island with my fiance, dog, and ball python- the four of us moved across the country from Colorado about a year ago, but I was born and raised in NJ. I have a degree in marine environmental science and am a Certified Interpretive Guide with the National Association for Interpretation with several years of experience in outdoor and science education in different settings like camps, museums, and more. I am also a licensed EMT. Camp has always been my favorite time of year and while this is my first summer working here on Fire Island in Saltaire, it will be my 5th summer working as an educator at a summer camp. I am so excited to get into some awesome science with the campers this summer! And most importantly, my answer to a question I ask everyone – “what is your favorite ocean animal?”- either a giant pacific octopus or a bonnet head shark. Best Fishes, until summer!

Nature Specialist & After Camp Support

This is my 5th summer at the Saltaire Summer Camp and my 4th as Nature Specialist. I grew up on Long Island, and I currently live in Bay Shore with my husband John and our daughter Laurel. I lived on Fire Island for 18 years, there is no other place like it! Kismet was our neighborhood, but Saltaire was our summer town. We spent many of our days walking the boardwalks, reading books, and playing games in the library and at the marina.

I am an avid birder, hiker, and have over 10 years experience in outdoor education, having taught a range of ages from toddler camp programs to high school assemblies. I received my BA in Environmental Studies and Education from LIU C.W. Post, and I am a NYS certified Teacher Assistant. Teaching children to love the outdoors and appreciate nature is something I never grow tired of. I’m so excited to work with such an amazing group of educators. This will be a summer to remember!

Music Teacher

I am a violinist, pianist, and composer from Seattle, Washington. I now live in Providence, RI, and before that I was living and working in NYC for 13 years. I have taught students of all ages since 1993. I currently teach violin and piano at The Providence School of Music and Community Music Works; I also teach at Rhode Island College and Roger Williams University. I was the Music Director at Bucks Rock Camp – an overnight camp in Milford, Connecticut, and I taught violin at the Brooklyn Conservatory from 2012 to 2020. I also perform regularly in a variety of styles including classical, folk, pop, and jazz. I look forward to leading the children of Saltaire in musical explorations again, including singing new songs and some old favorites, playing instruments – and the all important movement to music! Each session will include some dancing to fiddle tunes and keyboard jams.

Yoga Program Director

Dear Friends: If there were ever a time for yoga, it is now. I am so looking forward to returning to the Saltaire Camp/Recreation Program to bring Yoga to your children. This will be my 10th summer. For those of you who do not know me, I have been coming to Saltaire since my son Alexander was born, 23 years ago. After completing my Yoga training (200TTC) to become a licensed yoga instructor, I soon discovered the joy and true sense of peace in teaching at our beach. Currently, I am furthering my prana vinyasa, restorative, yin and reiki studies in Los Angeles and completing my 300TTC. I look forward to showing and building a harmony with your children; sharing the beauty, focus and strength of yoga and our environment. I am grateful to be sharing what I love and strive to make your child’s yoga journey fun, fresh and challenging. Namaste 🙏🏻

Group Leader

My name is Zelde and I’m so excited to be returning for my fifth summer at Saltaire Day Camp. I’m from Brooklyn, New York and am currently studying Human Development at Connecticut College hoping to pursue a career in Occupational Therapy. I grew up attending this camp myself, though I’ll admit I was a pretty difficult camper! (I rarely joined in and absolutely refused to wear my shoes.) That experience helps me connect with even the most hesitant campers today. I’m passionate about creating a space where every child feels safe, seen, and included—whether they’re loud and lively or quiet and independent. I worked as a counselor my first two years, was on the aquatics staff summer 2024, and became a group leader last summer, giving me a full scope of how the camp functions. In my free time, you can find me at the beach, with my friends, or most often still hanging out with campers. I’ve been babysitting Fire Island kiddos for around 7 years and can confidently say it’s one of my favorite things to do! My family had been coming to Fire Island since the early 70s so it’s always been home and being a part of Saltaire Day Camp lets me give back to the community that helped raise me.

Group Leader

This summer will be my fourth year working as a Group Leader at Saltaire Day Camp and I truly love and enjoy it. I couldn’t think of a better way to spend my summer than at the beach every day. I was born and raised in Islip, New York. I still reside in Islip and truly love living in such a close knit community. I am currently a Preschool Teacher’s Assistant at Trinity Lutheran Preschool in Islip. I have been teaching at Trinity for the last 7 years. I truly love and enjoy working with children by making a difference in their lives . I currently assist in the 3 year old classroom and also do aftercare enrichment with 3, 4, & 5 year olds. I enjoy getting them prepared for their journey forward to Kindergarten. I also enjoy spending time with my family. Raising my daughter and two sons has been my biggest accomplishment in life. I always enjoyed spending time at Robert Moses on Fire Island with my children. The lighthouse is one of our favorite places to visit. I am so excited and looking forward to meeting all the new campers this summer at Saltaire.

Group Leader

My name is Leah Ricciardone. I was born and raised on Long Island. This will be my third summer working at Saltaire Day Camp and I cannot express how excited I am to be back at camp. I am currently going into my senior year of college at SUNY Cortland studying Early Childhood Education. Becoming a teacher has always been a passion for me and changing children’s lives is extremely important to me. During my summers as a child I spent most of my days at camp or at the beach. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my friends and family, traveling and sitting on the beach with a book in my hand. I cannot wait to be back in Saltaire with all of you!

Group Leader

Hi! My name is Ela Swicord. I was born and raised in Poland where I worked on a family farm. Growing up, I Ioved having fun outside and connecting to nature. As the oldest of seven children, I learned responsibility at a young age which helped me develop a strong work ethic. After earning a master’s degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of Łódź, I taught in Poland for three years before moving to New York. It was a long journey to get to where I am now… I’ve been working as an ENL (English as a New Language) teacher for the Brentwood school district for the past nine years. I live in West Islip but spent the past eight summers in Kismet. My two kids attended Saltaire camp when they were little. In my free time I like to go to the beach, bake, and read. This will be my third summer as a Group Leader. I can’t wait to see everyone!

Group Leader

My name is Laurel Stewart, and this will be my fifth summer working at Saltaire Day Camp! I grew up on Fire Island as a year-round resident, and now live just across the bay in Bay Shore, Long Island. I am studying Childhood Education for Grades 1-6 and Students with Disabilities at Long Island University (C.W. Post), and I am dedicated to educating children about the beautiful and complex natural environment of Fire Island. By working at Saltaire, I am able to share the same experiences I had and my love of nature with the next generation. I am also an artist and a small business owner, and I am so grateful to be able to share the joy of creativity with others. I am looking forward to seeing everyone again this summer and participating in this amazing community!

Group Leader

Hello, my name is Dillon Archer and this will be my 8th summer at Saltaire Day Camp. I was born and raised in West Islip, NY. I graduated with my Bachelor’s Degree in Adolescent Education from SUNY Oswego and received my Masters Degree in Educational Technology from LIU Post. I taught Social Studies in a Brooklyn high school for 5 years where I also served as the Lead Teacher. I currently teach high school social studies right here on Long Island. I truly love teaching and building relationships with my students. I am a huge Yankees and Jets fan and love sports. I also coach baseball and football at the middle school level in my school district. I am very much looking forward to spending another summer working by the beach in Saltaire. Can’t wait to get started and have a great summer!

Group Leader

Hi everyone! I’m so excited to be back as a Group Leader for my second summer at camp. Since last summer, I’ve been working as a middle school substitute teacher, which has been such a fun and rewarding experience. I recently graduated from SUNY Oswego with a degree in Education, with a focus on Biology. I’ve always loved teaching and working with kids, and I can’t wait to bring that energy to camp again this year. In my free time, I like staying active any way I can, whether that’s going for a walk, working out, or just spending time outdoors. I’m really looking forward to helping campers learn new things, make friends, and have the best summer ever!

Group Leader

Hey everyone! My name is Ryan Denninger and this will be my 8th summer working as a group leader at Saltaire Day Camp. I graduated from SUNY Cortland with a bachelor’s degree in History and completed my graduate program at Long Island University-Post with a master’s degree in Adolescent Education: Social Studies. I am currently a high school history teacher and dean in Brooklyn and I love what I do! In my free time, I love keeping active in any way possible. I love playing sports and rooting on my favorite professional sports teams in the Yankees, Knicks, and Jets. I’m a big time foodie, especially pizza and tacos. Nothing beats spending beautiful summer days on the beach so I cannot wait for the opportunity to work with you all.

Assistant Group Leader

Hey everyone! My name is Connor Lambert and most of my summers have been working or attending Saltaire day camp. I graduated from LIU Post with my bachelors degree in broadcasting. For the past 4+ years I have been working at a local tv news station here in Virginia. Ever since I was little I would go to Saltaire in the summer, and coming from Virginia I didn’t know what to expect but Saltaire camp made summers great! I’m looking forward to making it a time the campers won’t forget and have fun in the sun this summer!

Assistant Group Leader

I am Ann-Marie and am ecstatic to join the Saltaire Day Camp team! Working with children of all ages has been my career for over 15 years! I received my Associates Degree in Early Childhood education from Suffolk County College and I am CPR /First Aid certified. As a mother and fellow Long Islander going to Fire Island has been a summer tradition all my life and I can’t wait to enjoy this summer experience with all the great campers. See you soon!

All Camp Substitute

Hi Everyone! My name is Tori and I grew up on Long Island, spending summers at the beaches and Fire Island. This will be my 6th summer working at Saltaire, how time flies! A little about me, I was a competitive gymnast for 10 years and 6 of those I was also a part of the Varsity Gymnastics team. I attend the University at Buffalo, and I am majoring in Architecture.

I come from a big family, the youngest of 7, and I really enjoy working with kids. Some of my best memories are from being a camp counselor at Saltaire! I also took American Sign Language from 7th- 12th grade and I am looking forward to being able to share my love for the language with the campers! I can’t wait to have a great summer and I’m looking forward to seeing everyone!