values
ABOUT
Educational Philosophy
At Seedlings, we see every child as capable, curious, and full of potential. Inspired by the Reggio Emilia philosophy and the Project Approach, our program nurtures early learning through meaningful exploration, rich relationships, and creative expression.
From infancy through toddlerhood, children are immersed in an environment that encourages natural communication and cultural connection. Our classrooms are thoughtfully designed to invite discovery, dialogue, and collaboration—where learning emerges through play, inquiry, and long-term projects that reflect the children’s interests.
With caring, bilingual educators as guides and co-learners, we foster a deep sense of belonging, curiosity, and joy. We invite you to join a community where language and learning grow hand in hand—and every moment is full of possibility.
Our Core Values
Holding an image of the child as a competent and active participant in constructing their own learning and developmental growth.
Viewing the teacher as a guide who supports the child through inquiry, understanding, and growth.
Safety and Security
Paramount to our philosophy is the belief that relationship building between children and teachers as well as among peers helps children to feel safe and secure in their world, allowing them the freedom to authentically express themselves.
School Overview
Through a project-based, child-led approach to curriculum planning, we are able to:
Support children in their individual growth
Enhance children’s innate love of learning
View children as full participants in their growth and development
Support children in all areas of development
Meet the Teachers
MS. MELISSA, Owner
Ms. Melissa’s journey in early childhood education began more than 20 years ago, following many years of work in social justice and community organizing. She believes that nurturing children is one of the most meaningful ways to create lasting change in the world—by supporting one child, one family, and one community at a time. Before opening the center, Melissa founded and operated The Garden Community Preschool from her home for seven years, cultivating a warm, inclusive space where children could thrive through curiosity, creativity, and connection.
EDUCATION:
Ms. Melissa holds a B.A. in community studies and a California Site Supervisor Permit. A lifelong learner and advocate for early education, she plans to pursue a master’s degree in early childhood education to continue deepening her impact as both an educator and community leader.
INTERESTS:
Outside of work, Melissa enjoys traveling with her family, running with her dog, and attending live shows. As a mother of three, she treasures time spent together and brings that same sense of joy, connection, and community into her work with children and families.
MS. JACKIE, Director
With over ten years of experience working with children from infancy through early adolescence, Jackie brings a deep passion for child development and early education to our community. Her vision is to create and maintain a warm, nurturing environment where every child feels valued, supported, and inspired to grow. Through intentional teaching, strong relationships, and a love for lifelong learning, Jackie leads our center with dedication and heart.
EDUCATION:
Ms. Jackie has completed over 24 units in early childhood education and is currently pursuing her bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Learning at San Francisco State University. She is passionate about deepening her understanding of child development and continuing to grow as an educator and leader.
INTERESTS:
In her free time, Jackie enjoys reading, watching rugby, and listening to music. She loves spending quality time with her husband, daughter, and dog, Opie, and finds inspiration for her work through nature, family, and creativity.
MS. ANDREA, Teacher
Andrea has spent the past five years working with infants and toddlers, bringing warmth, patience, and dedication to her role every day. She is deeply committed to growing as both an educator and caregiver, continually seeking new ways to support young children’s development. With a passion for early education and leadership, Andrea’s long-term goal is to become a childcare center administrator, where she can continue making a positive impact on children, families, and teachers alike.
.EDUCATION:
Andrea holds a Child Development Associate Teacher Permit and has completed 24 units in early childhood education. She is currently working toward her associate degree in the field, with plans to continue her education and earn a bachelor’s degree—and beyond.
INTERESTS:
Andrea enjoys music, television, and attending live concerts in her spare time. Her favorite colors—blue and black—reflect her calm and grounded nature, and she’s always up for a trip to Dutch Bros or a plate of chicken wings after a busy week in the classroom.
MS. TE’AIRA, Teacher’s Aide
Te’Aira has been teaching for three years, with the past two devoted to working closely with infants and toddlers. She finds endless joy in supporting young children’s growth and cherishes the laughter and lighthearted moments they bring each day. With a true passion for early childhood education, Te’Aira dreams of one day establishing her own childcare program. Her warm, joyful presence and genuine love for children make her a valued part of our team and a wonderful guide in their early learning journeys.
EDUCATION:
Ms. Te’Aira is a lifelong learner currently earning her credentials to become a certified infant teacher. She is passionate about continuing her education in early childhood development and growing her expertise in the field.
INTERESTS:
Te’Aira enjoys spending her free time reading and relaxing with her family. Her favorite color, yellow, reflects her bright and cheerful personality, and she never passes up the chance to share a good laugh—or a plate of french fries.
MS. MILEYBI, Teacher’s Aide
Mileybi is newer to the field of early childhood education but brings an inspiring enthusiasm and eagerness to learn and grow as an educator. She is passionate about awakening children’s curiosity and creativity through meaningful, hands-on experiences. For her, being part of each child’s growth and discovery is a truly special privilege. Mileybi’s gentle guidance and joyful spirit help create an environment where exploration and learning flourish every day.
EDUCATION:
Mileybi is on her way to becoming a certified infant teacher, with just a few units left to complete her coursework. She is eager to continue learning and applying new skills to support children’s growth and development.
INTERESTS:
Outside of the classroom, Mileybi enjoys running, reading, and exploring all that the Bay Area has to offer. Her favorite food is pasta, and her love for learning and exploration mirrors the curiosity she encourages in her students.
MS. JULIANA, Teacher’s Aide
Juliana has been teaching infants and toddlers for two years and brings warmth, creativity, and cultural pride to everything she does. Originally from Guatemala, she loves sharing her language and heritage with the children in her care, creating a rich and inclusive learning environment. Juliana is passionate about continuing to grow her skills as an educator to provide the very best care possible. One of her favorite parts of the day is doing arts and crafts—especially introducing little ones to painting and self-expression through art.
EDUCATION:
Juliana is new to the field of early childhood education and is excited to continue growing through hands-on experience and future coursework in ECE. She looks forward to expanding her knowledge and developing her skills as she continues her journey as an early childhood educator.
FUN FACT:
Juliana enjoys painting, arts and crafts, and spending time outdoors. She especially loves guiding little ones through their first art experiences and watching their creativity take shape.
MS. MARIA, Teacher’s Aide
Ms. Maria joined the Seedlings team with nearly a year of experience caring for young children, including time spent supporting families through in-home childcare. She brings a calm, nurturing energy to the toddler classroom and takes pride in creating a safe, welcoming environment where children can explore and grow.
EDUCATION:
While Ms. Maria does not yet have formal coursework in early childhood education, she continues to build her skills through hands-on classroom experience. She is eager to pursue future ECE studies to strengthen her understanding of child development and early learning.
INTERESTS:
In her free time, Maria enjoys watching movies and spending quiet moments with family. Her favorite food is chicken, her favorite drink is lemonade, and her favorite color—red—reflects the warmth and care she brings to her work with children each day.
Interested in joining our team?
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