Bright preschool Mind STAFF
MS. Cookie Balcha - school director
Ms. Balcha brings a Bachelor of Business Administration, an MBA from John Hopkins University, and a Child Development Associate (CDA) to Bright Mind Preschool. An advocate for early education, Ms. Cookie is committed to educating all children in a safe and loving environment. Her goal is to enrich the students' lives and create a desire for learning. She is the proud mother of two girls and is a strong advocate for giving back to the community and can usually be found helping others in need.
"Early childhood education became my passion after becoming a mom. BMPS is a place that feels like the extended family and community that I miss
being away from my home country."
-Ms. Cookie
MS. Sarah Jennings - PROGRAM COORDINATOR AND
SPACE RANGER LEAD TEACHER
Ms. Sarah graduated from the University of Vermont with a BS in Elementary Education with a concentration in early literacy. She has years of teaching experience in both elementary and preschool settings and a breadth of continuing education.
Ms. Sarah’s teaching philosophy includes accepting children where they are, supporting their talents and interests to develop upon their skills, and nudging them towards success in all areas through encouragement and repeated exposure to concepts and materials.
Ms. Sarah loves to read, explore Alexandria, travel, and watch her grandchildren grow.
"Children are the are the world's most valuable resource and its best hope for the future.
-John F. Kennedy
MS. Judy Mabon - office administrator
Ms. Judy brings to Bright Mind Preschool both an Associate and Bachelor Degree in Business Administration and Marketing. Prior to joining Bright Mind Preschool, she served as the Assistant Director of the Merchandise Operations at the Smithsonian National Zoo.
"I have been with Bright Mind Preschool from the very beginning and have learned so much about Early Childhood Education and building a love of learning for the children to carry with them throughout their lives. Plus, I learn a lot from the children everyday with their unbridled affection for school, their teachers, and their fellow students!"
-Ms. Judy
MS. Kait Mitchell - trail blazer Lead TEACHER
Ms. Kait graduated Florida Institute of Technology with a Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology with a Minor in Sustainability.
Ms. Kait past experience at Beach Kids Academy in Panama City Beach, Florida where she delivered creative and interactive activities for preschool students. She created early education curriculum for literacy and arithmetic competence. She established a strong partnership with parents toward progress in student behavior and academic development.
Ms. Kait's hobbies are spending time with her family and exploring the oceans of the world.
"Our task, regarding creativity, is to help children climb their own mountains,
as high as possible. No one can do more."
-Loris Malaguzzi
MS. shannon hames - busy bees LEAD TEACHER
Ms. Shannon has worked with children for over twenty years. Preschool is where it all starts and she is excited to be back to her roots. She holds a CDA credential along with many hours of continuing education.
Ms. Shannon enjoys spending time with friends and family and especially loves outside adventures!
"There are three ways to ultimate success. The first is to be kind. The second is to be kind.
The third is to be kind."
-Mr. Rogers
MS. KARLA penate-bonilla - assistant teacher
Ms. Karla has been teaching for 9 years at Bright Mind and counting. She is working towards her CDA credential.
Ms. Karla’s teaching philosophy is that children learn through play. She loves to play and pretend with all of the children.
Ms. Karla’s hobbies are watching movies and curling up with a good book.
"I love working here at Bright Mind Preschool because I feel this is my home.
I have been here since the school opened and I wouldn’t have it any other way!”
-Ms. Karla
MS. Sean cullen - floater
Ms. Sean has lived in Alexandria, VA since she was a young child. She and her husband have chosen to a raise their three children here alongside her large family, all of whom reside in Alexandria.
She’s worked on and off as a nanny for many years and has a deep love for children and teaching. Outside of work, you can find her doing family-oriented activities, or volunteering with a regional animal rescue group.
Ms. Sean is working toward her CDA credential.
Her philosophy is that children learn best in a joyful setting, and believes it is the duty of teachers to bring warmth and patience with them to the classroom every day.
"It takes a big heart to help shape little minds." -Author unknown
MS. katherine lemmons - space ranger teaching assistant
Ms. Katherine holds a Bachelors of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Ohio University. She finds working with preschoolers rewarding and fun!
Ms. Katherine enjoys hanging out with family and travelling.
"When one teaches, two learn."
-Robert Heinlein
MS. Alyzza fuentes- space ranger teaching assistant
Ms. Alyzza is working towards her CDA credential. She enjoys working with children because they are fun and funny! Ms. Alyzza puts her native Spanish to good use by incorporating Spanish vocabulary into her teaching.
She enjoys travelling with her family.
"A child's life is like a piece of paper on which every person leaves a mark."
MS. jezzenia valladares - busy bee assistant teacher
Ms. Jezzenia is working towards a degree in Biology at PG Community College and loves working with our youngest children because each day brings something different!
Ms. Jezzenia enjoys reading and looks forward to introducing Spanish to her students.
"While we try to teach children about life our children teach us what life is all about.”
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