About BELC
Our "Whole-Child" Approach
Branford Early Learning Center Inc. (BELC), a nonprofit child care and preschool center, is a State Department of Education funded agency providing the children of working parents with high quality, affordable child care and early childhood education. Our NAEYC accredited center concentrates on the whole child: nutritional well-being, physical and emotional health, social relationships and academic growth.
By achieving these goals for children in a warm, caring environment, the center allows parents to reach their goals of self-sufficiency with full confidence that their children are safe and well cared for. We support positive relationships among children, parents and staff by realizing that parents are their child’s first teacher and we need to work together to provide the best future for “our” children.
Ariana Loyola, Executive Director
Meet the Admin Team
Executive Director, Ariana Loyola
Assistant Director, Cat Bencivengo
Assistant Director, Cat Bencivengo
Ariana joined BELC in July of 2024, bringing with her 15+ years of experience in childcare and youth development. She is a passionate advocate for student growth and community engagement.
Recently completing her Master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction, Ariana balances her professional achievements with a deep commitment to family life, as she has 4 children and 3 beloved fur babies! She serves as a cheer coach during her free time, where she inspires young athletes to build confidence, discipline, and teamwork - both on and off the mat.
Ariana brings a dynamic blend of expertise, energy and heart, not only to BELC, but to the Branford community as well.
Assistant Director, Cat Bencivengo
Assistant Director, Cat Bencivengo
Assistant Director, Cat Bencivengo
Cat has been a dedicated part of the BELC family for the past 13 years, starting off as a Teacher and making her way up to Assistant Director. Not only does she hold a Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, but she also co-owns a local small business since 2017!
Deeply rooted in her community and family life, Cat serves as VP on both of her children's PTO boards. As an aunt to five, mother to 2 and a member of a big, fun, and often loud family; Cat is used to life filled with activity and heart. That background has helped her to create an environment filled with energy, connection and care wherever she goes—especially at BELC.
You may see Cat participating in local events or volunteering around town, spreading her warmth to everyone she meets!
Office Assistant, Alexis Morales
Assistant Director, Cat Bencivengo
Office Assistant, Alexis Morales
Alexis joined BELC in November of 2024, bringing 3 years of experience in childcare supervision. She brings a thoughtful, caring presence and strong sense of organization to her role.
Alexis is a West Haven High School graduate, who attended the University of Tampa for her Bachelor's degree before returning home in 2022. She is a proud mom to 2 fur babies, both of which were adopted from the Humane Society.
Alexis is dedicated to creating a safe, welcoming environment where all young children and staff can feel seen, empowered and thrive. Her nurturing spirit is reflected in her everyday work with families and staff alike.