Meet the founder

Elizabeth Cotignola, M.S.

Elizabeth (Lizzy) Cotignola founded Sunshine Collective after being in the education world for over two decades. Working with young children, families and educators across Westchester County and New York City has provided tremendous perspective and professional expertise in early childhood education.

Lizzy’s background sits at an unusual intersection. Master’s degrees and NYS Certifications in both Special Education and Guidance Counseling - on one side; NCAA Division I Athlete, (Syracuse University Cheerleading) with extensive background in dance, yoga and fitness - on the other. Bridging together two passions that are interconnected sparked the creation of Sunshine Collective.

Sunshine Collective represents the power of social emotional learning, confidence, creative thinking, and executive functioning with the momentum of movement, mindfulness, fitness and strength. By enhancing children’s individual strengths, elevating their confidence and cultivating strategies to overcome challenges, Lizzy has enthusiastically encouraged her students to shine bright through embracing their unique perspectives, highlighting personal achievements and developing countless foundational skills and strategies for success.

Sunshine Collective was created on the premise, “Shine bright from the inside out. Elevate. Radiate. Shine. “

Background

  • M.S., Special Education

  • M.S., Guidance and Counseling

  • B.S., Speech Communications

Syracuse University

  • New York State Special Education Teacher Certification

  • New York State Guidance and Counseling Certification

  • 20 + years as a SEIT in Westchester County

  • New York City Department of Education Special Education Art Teacher

  • New York City Department of EducationCo-Teach 1st Grade

  • NCAA Division I Cheerleader , Syracuse University

  • Universal Cheerleading Association Instructor

  • Children’s Yoga Certification