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If you’ve spent any time in our preschool halls over the years, chances are you already know, and love, Alexandria Banton, affectionately known as Ms. Alex. From her calm presence and joyful energy, to the deep connections she builds with children and families, Ms. Alex has long been a cherished part of our community. That’s why we are thrilled to share that she will be stepping into a new role this summer as the Noah’s Ark Program Director!
Ms. Alex’s journey with our community began back in January 2009, and over the years she has worn many hats as teacher, mentor, trusted partner to families, and recipient of the Michael S. Saxon Award for Educational Vision in 2019. Each role has been guided by the same steady “why”: a deep love for children and a belief in the power of early childhood experiences.
“I’ve always loved working with children,” she shares. “I admire their honesty, curiosity, and joy. They experience the world with open hearts, and it’s a privilege to help guide and support them during such an important stage of development.”
A Heart for the Youngest Learners
Ms. Alex is especially known for her work with our oldest two-year-olds, a stage she describes as nothing short of magical.
“They’re discovering their voices, building friendships, and learning what they’re capable of. It’s a time when independence and imagination truly begin to blossom.”
Watching children grow not just in skills, but in confidence, independence, and chesed (kindness) is what keeps her inspired year after year, along with the meaningful bonds she’s built with families along the way.
Why Noah’s Ark Feels Like Home
Ask Ms. Alex what makes Noah’s Ark Preschool Camp special, and her answer is simple and powerful:
“It feels like a family.”
For her, camp is a place where children are celebrated for who they are, families feel supported, and learning happens through joy, connection, and play. That sense of warmth and intentionality is exactly what she’s excited to nurture in her new leadership role.
This summer, she’s most looking forward to what camp does best: creating meaningful memories.
“The laughter, the exploring, the friendships, the fun… it’s a special kind of freedom and joy. I love being part of the adventure Noah’s Ark Camp brings each year.”
What Families Can Expect
Ms. Alex describes her approach to camp as nurturing, child-centered, and play-based. Each day, children can expect to feel safe, loved, and engaged, with camp days filled with hands-on activities, swim, outdoor play, creativity, social growth, and plenty of moments for connection.
Her hope is simple and profound:
“I want children to feel excited, secure, and happy to be there. Most of all, I want them to feel seen, valued, and confident in who they are.”
As with all of our J Camps programs, J Camps is a great place for a kid to be celebrated for exactly who they are. Our programs are designed to inspire children to explore what they love most, while giving them the freedom to be their most authentic, energetic, and fantastic selves.
Camp Joys & Favorite Traditions
When asked about favorite camp moments, Alex doesn’t hesitate.
“I love all of camp! The fast pace, the energy, the sun, the laughter. But my favorite tradition is the Friendship Caravan. I love it when they come!”
And just for fun: growing up, she loved Mercer Mayer books, treasures the story Our Tree Named Steve in the classroom, and says nothing makes her smile more than the adventures we plan and the sound of children’s laughter echoing through camp.
Learn more about Noah’s Ark Camp here: jcampsbaltimore.org/program/noahs-ark/
