Our StaffAll of our teachers are CPR/First Aid certified and have at least 12 ECE’s with all holding or working toward a CA Child Development Permit.

Ms. Deidre

Executive Director

Ms. Deidre, our preschool's Executive Director and co-owner, has dedicated over four decades to early childhood education and childcare, including obtaining her Master's Degree in Early Childhood Education. Her journey began as a young mother relying on a state-funded childcare program to finish her degree in Physics. This pivotal experience deepened her understanding of the importance of accessible education. This experience enabled her to pursue her education and inspired her lifelong commitment to helping families in need.

Today, she works tirelessly to ensure that most students at our preschool receive free or subsidized care. She knows firsthand how essential this support can be and is dedicated to ensuring families in our community have access to the same opportunities she did. Beyond the classroom, Deidre enjoys gardening, cooking, traveling, and crocheting.

Emily Walton

Director

Ms. Rebecca

Office Manager

"I love my role at Launch Pad Learning because I get to meet all of our new families and help get them ready to come to school. The best thing about each day is seeing all of our families and children and seeing how they learn and grow. I'm still a big kid at heart." Words that describe Ms. Rebecca are: creative, organized, charismatic, well spoken, positive, tenacious, caring, goal oriented, and problem solver.

Ms. Lydia

Assistant Director

Ms. Astrid

Teacher, Unity

Ms. Marely

Teacher, Unity

Ms. Marely Davila is a passionate and nurturing teacher at our preschool, nearing the completion of her Bachelor of Social Work and a Teaching Credential. With over two years of experience as a Teacher's Aide, Marely has a holistic view of child development and emphasizes the importance of adapting to the individual needs of each child in her care. Her educational philosophy centers on creating a motivating and secure environment that allows children to thrive and absorb knowledge effectively. Marely deeply values her role in helping children navigate their formative years, especially in developing their social and emotional skills. Her favorite part of the job is witnessing the unique ways children learn and grow.

Beyond the classroom, Marely is an avid dog lover, enjoying activities with her five French bulldogs, and remains deeply involved in her community through church groups and Rotaract. Her dedication to education and community service is highlighted by her Dean's List status and several community service awards. Inspired by Richard P. Feynman, Marely aspires to be a joyful and inspiring presence in her students' lives, continually striving for personal and professional growth.

Ms. Eleana

Teacher, Unity

Ms. Eleana, a dedicated Teacher with a Bachelor's in Early Child Development, has two years of valuable experience in early childhood education, having served as both a teacher and a tutor. Her educational approach focuses on art, using creative activities to enhance learning and development. Ms. Eleana is deeply committed to creating a nurturing environment where every child feels accepted and loved, ensuring they have the confidence to learn and grow daily. Her favorite teaching aspect is building lasting relationships with her students and witnessing their progress.

Outside the classroom, Ms. Eleana is an avid baseball fan who loves traveling and exploring new destinations. She plays a significant role in her motorcycle club, managing merchandise. Eleana's unique ability to laugh in eight different ways brings joy to those around her. Looking to the future, she aspires to start her own family and dreams of owning a business, continuing her personal and professional growth journey.

Ms. La Tease

Teacher, Unity

Ms. Denise A.

Teacher, Destiny

Denise Avalos is an inspirational Assistant Teacher with three years of valuable experience in early childhood education. She earned her AA degree in Elementary Education and is advancing her education at Cal State University Dominguez Hills. Denise has also contributed as a teacher assistant in a kindergarten class, enriching her understanding and skills in teaching young children. She holds an additional AA degree in Natural Science, reflecting her broad academic interests. Denise's teaching philosophy—"It takes a big heart to teach little minds"—highlights her commitment to nurturing and educating with compassion and dedication. Her favorite aspect of teaching is helping preschool children blossom into successful learners.

Outside of her professional life, Denise is an avid runner and baking enthusiast, and she enjoys exploring new coffee spots. She is actively involved in a university teaching program and eagerly works towards obtaining her teaching credential. With aspirations to one day have her own classroom, Denise continues to inspire and educate, believing that "a good education can change anyone."

Ms. Joyce

Teacher, Destiny

Ms. Joyce Hart-Pope is an imaginative and nurturing Teacher with 17 years of diverse experience in early childhood education, spanning roles from infant care to pre-K. She holds over 28 units in Early Childhood Education from Los Angeles Harbor College and a profound appreciation for the liberal arts. Ms. Joyce's classroom is a haven of creativity and imagination, highlighted by her morning "Sun Salutation" Yoga sessions and a vibrant classroom library that reflects current learning themes. She believes in creating a safe and loving environment where children can explore at their own pace, fostering self-confidence and respect for diversity through a hands-on and playful approach to learning.

Outside the classroom, Ms. Joyce enjoys reading, meditation, and exploring art galleries, bringing a well-rounded passion and enthusiasm to her teaching. Her philosophy is inspired by the encouraging words from "Peter Pan," reminding her and her students to embrace the possibility of soaring high in their endeavors.

Ms. Sarah

Teacher, Destiny

Ms. Denise S.

Teacher, Quest

Ms. Denise is an experienced and compassionate preschool teacher with over 12 years of experience in early childhood education. She holds 12 units in Child Development and an Associate of Arts Degree in Art and Computer Design. Ms. Denise’s teaching philosophy centers on building strong, individual connections with each child, allowing her to tailor her approach to meet their unique needs. She is passionate about fostering creativity and development through art, language, and physical activities, and she creates a nurturing environment where children feel supported and encouraged.

Outside the classroom, Ms. Denise enjoys photography, baking, and outdoor activities like biking and spending time at the beach. She finds inspiration in the quote, “Children are not things to be molded, but people to be unfolded,” which reflects her belief in helping children grow into their own person.

Ms. Catherine

Teacher, Quest

Ms. Catherine is a dedicated and creative teacher in the Quest classroom. She has nine years of experience as a teaching assistant. She holds a certification in early childhood education and specializes in using art to help children explore their creativity. Ms. Catherine is guided by the belief that "It takes a big heart to shape little minds," and she approaches each day intending to make a meaningful difference in her students' lives.

One of Ms. Catherine's favorite aspects of teaching is seeing the joy on children's faces as they learn, grow, and develop new skills. These small moments of happiness make her role so fulfilling. Outside of work, Ms. Catherine loves to shop and is known for her lively sense of humor, which brings joy to those around her.

Inspired by the quote, "The influence of a good teacher can never be erased," Ms. Catherine strives to leave a lasting, positive impact on each child she teaches. Although she is currently focused on her role in early childhood education, she dreams of one day returning to school to obtain her cosmetology license, blending her love for creativity and care into a new venture.

Ms. Claudia

Teacher, Quest

Ms. Leidy

Teacher, Harmony

Ms. Leidy is a passionate and highly experienced teacher in the Harmony classroom, bringing 15 years of dedication to early childhood education. With a rich educational background that includes a Bachelor's in Biology, Associate's degrees in Spanish and Child Development, and a certification as a Pharmacy Technician, Ms. Leidy approaches teaching with a holistic perspective that blends academic knowledge with practical experience.

Having previously worked as a sports coach for Amazing Athletes, Ms. Leidy understands the importance of physical activity and play in fostering young children's development. She firmly believes play is a fundamental key to learning and actively incorporates small group activities in her classroom to help children grow socially and academically.

Outside the classroom, Ms. Leidy is an avid outdoors enthusiast who finds peace and satisfaction in hiking and swimming. She particularly loves the challenge of climbing high mountains, feeling a deep sense of accomplishment upon reaching the top. This mirrors her philosophy of continual personal growth—Ms. Leidy believes that just as there is always another peak to conquer, there is always room for learning and self-improvement.

Ms. Leidy is continually inspired by the rapid development of young minds and the remarkable things children can learn at such an early age. Her goal is to keep learning and evolving, both as a teacher and as an individual, so that she can continue providing the best possible care and education for the children in her classroom.

Ms. Jazmia

Teacher, Harmony

Ms. Jazmia is a compassionate teacher in the Harmony classroom. She holds an Associate of Science degree in Early Childhood Education and an early childhood education certificate from El Camino College. With three years of experience, including her previous role as a toddler teacher, she is passionate about fostering growth in young children through play-based learning in a safe and nurturing environment. Ms. Jazmia emphasizes communication with parents to ensure they are informed and involved in their child's development.

Her favorite part of teaching is seeing children's faces light up as they discover new things and achieve milestones. In her free time, Ms. Jazmia enjoys listening to music and babysitting professionally and is currently learning American Sign Language (ASL) to enhance her communication skills. Inspired by Maya Angelou's quote, "People will never forget how you made them feel," she aims to create positive and meaningful connections with children and their families.

Ms. Jazmia takes pride in the trust and positive feedback she receives from families and looks forward to continually growing personally and professionally, always striving to provide the best care possible.

Ms. Stephanie

Teacher, Harmony

Ms. Stephanie is a dedicated and creative teacher in the Harmony classroom, holding a BA in Child Development from California State University, Dominguez Hills. With five years of valuable volunteer experience, including roles where she assisted lead teachers, Ms. Stephanie has developed a passion for early childhood education. She specializes in arts, crafts, and physical education. She believes in fostering a safe classroom environment that is nurturing and fun—where students feel excited to learn and return each day.

Ms. Stephanie’s favorite aspect of working with preschool children is seeing the world from their unique perspectives. She loves how each child views the world differently, and by paying attention to their interpretations, she learns something new daily. Her teaching philosophy is inspired by the belief that “Play is the work of the child,” a quote by Maria Montessori that reflects her approach to hands-on, play-based learning.

In addition to her work in the classroom, Ms. Stephanie stays active by playing soccer, painting, baking, and reading. She also occasionally teaches a dance class on Saturday mornings at her elementary school. A fun fact about Ms. Stephanie is that Christmas is her favorite holiday, a time she enjoys celebrating with family and friends.

In the future, Ms. Stephanie will focus on continuous personal and professional growth. She aspires to return to school to pursue her master’s degree, further expanding her knowledge and skills in early childhood education.

Ms. Hannah

Teacher, Floater

Mr. Kirk

Chef

Mr. Kirk is a skilled and enthusiastic chef with over five years of professional culinary experience. He has worked in renowned establishments such as Cili's @ Bali Hai in Las Vegas and as a Catering Chef at The Music Center, Disney Concert Hall Cafe, and Mullins Wine Bar. Now focusing on children's nutrition, Mr. Kirk's philosophy emphasizes creating colorful, balanced meals that incorporate all the primary food groups, ensuring the children have a nutritious and enjoyable dining experience. He takes great pride in his work, driven by his desire to create "Happy Palates" with every dish he prepares.

Mr. Kirk's favorite dish for the preschoolers is Chicken Alfredo, a crowd-pleaser that the children look forward to. He also excels at accommodating various dietary needs, carefully considering allergies and protein requests to ensure every child is served a meal that suits their needs. His approach to teaching children about healthy eating is both fun and educational—he loves being jovial and friendly and making mealtime an opportunity for learning about nutrition.

Although this is Mr. Kirk's first experience focusing on children's nutrition, his passion and dedication are evident in his daily work. Outside of preschool, he enjoys spending quality time with his family and outdoor activities like camping and beach outings. Mr. Kirk brings his culinary expertise and love of food to the preschool kitchen, ensuring every child is nourished and happy.