Role at UCP?
As Preschool Director, my first responsibility is to help families enroll their children in what is often their first school experience.  Along with teachers, I support them in the important transition from home to school and finding ways to be involved in their child’s school experience. Secondly, I support the staff members who are the face of Christian love to members of our community and help children learn basic academic and social/emotional skills.

Favorite thing about working here?
I am a member of our School Family, where everyone feels safe and connected so that we can learn together. We feel safe enough to experience conflict as a learning tool. We value each member of the family as an individual who will thrive and reach their optimal development. In this family environment, we strive to  provide everyone (children and staff members) with a felt sense of safety, belonging and spiritual values.

What is your passion?
My passion is working toward a better world for all children. Through my volunteer work with Virginia Association for the Education of Young Children, I work on professional development opportunities for caretaker/educators, as well as advocating for those undervalued professionals. I advocate for government policies that support children’s development. Through my work as a Certified Instructor for Conscious Discipline, I provide training for other preschools and parent groups. It gives me great joy to share how to shift from a system of rewards, punishments and fear to Safety, Connection and Love for others.