Michael & Bonni Branciforte

Founders

Michael and Bonni pioneered the idea of offering young children and families integrated education, gymnastics, music and art programs. They offer an unparalleled level of expertise built on the foundation of three decades of experience operating national-level gymnastics centers, top-tier preschools and preschool alternatives, as well as raising two children of their own in New York.

The Brancifortes founded Brooklyn Gymnastics Center—one of the original American gymnastics centers—in 1978. Under Michael’s leadership as head coach, the center’s gymnasts participated in national and international competitions and went on to earn college gymnastics scholarships and serve as USA Gymnastics National Team coaches.

The pair recognized the value of integrated education early on, and were among the first in the country to incorporate the spirit and skills of gymnastics into programs designed for toddlers and “mommy and me” classes. Bonni and Michael share a dedication to educational excellence and a strong conviction that fun, learning and physical activity all work best when synergized. This core belief is reflected in every class at Gymtime.

Bonni and Michael founded York Avenue Preschool in 1991 and currently sit on the Board of Trustees. Most recently, they have expanded Gymtime’s mission by establishing the Gymtime Foundation, which raises funds to bring education, health and physical activity programs to at-need children throughout New York City.

“Everyone who walks in these doors can see Gymtime is not a place that was built overnight. We designed this space based on our decades of experience working with children; we recruited an unmatched staff that only gets better year after year; and we arrange every program to meet the needs and desires of each of our families.”
— Bonni + Michael

Chris Vollaro

Director of Gymnastics and Sports Program

Melissa van Wijk

Director of the Tiny Tot Fitness Program

Samantha Katorkas

Gymnastics Team Director

Andrew Parra

Director of Tae Kwon Do Program

Frank Torres

Security

Jessica Hayward

Head Teacher of Art and PEP