Meet the Staff
The Center's teaching staff is selected for their strong educational backgrounds in child development, their professional experience, and their sensitivity to the needs of young children. The coordinator has a master's degree in child development, the master teachers and teachers have bachelor’s degrees or master’s degrees. The associate teachers have bachelor’s degrees or associate arts degrees. These staff members are fully credentialed by the California State Commission in accordance with the Child Development Permit Matrix. Each staff member is committed to developmentally appropriate practice and dedicated to nurturing children toward competence in all areas of development."At the core of all education that makes a difference in the lives of children, beneath all the methods, materials and curricula, is a teacher who cares about each child, one who teaches from the heart." - Mimi Brodsky Chenfeld
Maggie Barrientos, Faculty Coordinator, Child Care Services
"As the Coordinator, I have the opportunity to connect with students, faculty, staff, and community members. Our program strives to provide young children with an early care and education program that allows for exploration, growth, and development in intentionally designed learning environments. We strive to create a sense of belonging for children and families. I believe relationships are at the center of everything we do as educators. When we build deep and authentic connections with children and their families, provide opportunities for families to forge meaningful relationships with each other, and develop cohesive teaching teams the result is a high quality program where children thrive."
Yovanka Crossley, Master Teacher
Yovanka skillfully engages in meaningful dialogue with children as they work. It is through these intimate conversations that she creates a climate that supports creative development and aesthetic appreciation. Yovanka makes the classroom a place where self-expression is nurtured and where creativity can flourish. "When children learn in such a safe, supportive setting under the gentle, constant guidance of a caring teacher, they prove over and over again that they are among the most creative members of this gifted and talented human family of ours."
Xianjing Cao, Master Teacher
Xianjing demonstrates a deep understanding of the individual needs, strengths, and interests of each child. She is attentive and responsive to children as individuals, taking the time to observe, listen, and thoughtfully adapt her approach to support their learning and development. Her interactions with children are consistently warm and respectful, creating an environment where every child feels valued, heard, and understood. Through her thoughtful and responsive interactions, she creates a nurturing classroom community where children feel a strong sense of belonging and are encouraged to grow with confidence.
Farida Nejrabi, Teacher
Farida understands the importance of supporting children in their social emotional development. She genuinely connects with children and families, and recognizes that building trust is the first step to establishing a true partnership. She delights in children’s growth and development as they master skills and develop friendships. Farida works to create a classroom where all children and families feel a sense of belonging.
Izamar Nieto, Teacher
Izamar understands the value in providing opportunities for children to express themselves through music, dance, and creative arts. She plans meaningful experiences around introducing different genres of music and dance. Izamar delights in children’s creative spirit and facilitates their learning through asking questions and scaffolding on their prior experiences. Izamar is tuned into the interests of children.
Clara Lucia Valdez Chon, Associate Teacher
Clara works to understand the needs of each child. She is genuine and listens carefully. She applies her knowledge of child development to her work in the classroom. Clara is nurturing and responsive and, at the same time, she understands the importance of learning to create an environment where children can grow and develop. She wants children to love school, to love learning, and to thrive.
Vanessa Escalon, Associate Teacher
Vanessa brings genuine enthusiasm, warmth, and joy to her work with children. She celebrates children’s ideas, accomplishments, and discoveries. Vanessa is invested in children’s growth and development and approaches each day with curiosity and excitement. She connects authentically with children, recognizes their individual strengths, and supports them as they build confidence, develop new skills, and discover the world around them.
