MEET OUR LEADERSHIP
Meet the people behind Early Start Preschool & Childcare Center. With a shared passion for early childhood education, our leadership team is dedicated to providing high-quality care, supporting our teachers, and building meaningful relationships with the children and families we serve.
Herlin Alvarez ~ Founder & Owner
Herlin Alvarez is the Founder and Owner of Early Start Preschool & Childcare Center, bringing over 10 years of experience in early childhood education. As an educator, entrepreneur, author, and speaker, she is passionate about education, leadership, and making a positive impact in her community. Her journey began with a dream of spending more time with her children while providing a safe, nurturing, and high-quality learning environment for other families.
In 2016, that dream became Early Start, a small home-based childcare program serving just 10 children. Herlin's dedication to children and families inspired her to expand the program alongside her daughter, Mildred. Together, they opened their first childcare center in 2023 and celebrated Early Start's 10th anniversary in 2026 with the grand opening of their brand-new facility.
Herlin holds an Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education and believes that learning is a lifelong journey. She is passionate about creating meaningful learning experiences that encourage children to explore, build confidence, and discover their unique abilities. She believes every child deserves to feel valued, respected, and supported as they grow and reach their fullest potential.
Beyond Early Start, Herlin is the author of the bilingual children's book Let Me Be Me / Déjame Ser Yo and Sin Permiso para Soñar, inspired by her journey of perseverance and determination. Through her work, she hopes to inspire others to pursue their dreams while continuing to guide Early Start with the same dedication and family-centered values that inspired its beginning.
Mildred Lopez ~ Co-Founder & Director
Mildred Lopez is the Director and Co-Founder of Early Start Preschool & Childcare Center. Her journey in early childhood education began at age 14, when she started volunteering at a childcare center and discovered her passion for working with young children. When her mother, Herlin, founded Early Start in 2016, Mildred had the opportunity to grow alongside the program and gain firsthand experience supporting children and families.
In 2019, Mildred officially began working in early childhood education while continuing to strengthen her knowledge through professional development. Her role grew from working directly with children to helping lead the program. In 2022, Mildred and Herlin decided to expand Early Start into a childcare center, opening their first center in 2023 and their brand-new center in 2026 as Early Start celebrated 10 years.
Today, with more than nine years of experience in early childhood education, Mildred serves as Director while continuing her education in the field. She is passionate about providing high-quality care and education, supporting teachers, and creating a place where families feel welcomed and connected. Beyond Early Start, she serves on the Board of Directors of Feria del Libro, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting literacy, celebrating cultural diversity, and connecting communities through books and educational opportunities.
As Co-Founder and Director, Mildred is proud to help lead Early Start into its next chapter while preserving the warm, personal, and family-centered environment that has been at the heart of the program since 2016.
MEET OUR TEACHERS
Our teachers are at the heart of each child's experience at Early Start. Our team is dedicated to creating a warm, welcoming environment where children feel safe, supported, and excited to learn. Through meaningful relationships, play, and everyday experiences, our teachers help each child build confidence, independence, and a love for learning.
Melissa Lara
Lead Teacher & Alternate Director ~ Preschool Classroom A | Ages 4–5
Melissa has six years of experience in early childhood education and has been part of the Early Start team for two years. She earned her Bachelor's Degree in Child Development in Mexico, bringing a strong educational background and valuable experience to her work. Melissa also takes on additional leadership responsibilities, helping support the center's daily operations and ensuring a positive environment for children, families, and staff.
Inspired by her father, who dedicated his life to teaching, Melissa developed a passion for making a positive difference in children's lives. She enjoys watching children learn, grow, and discover new things each day. She believes that children thrive when they feel loved, safe, valued, and encouraged to explore the world around them.
Melissa especially enjoys creative activities and free play, where she can connect with children, listen to their stories, and celebrate their unique personalities. Outside of Early Start, she enjoys spending time with her family, watching movies, and listening to music. One of her favorite children's books is The Three Little Pigs.
Yadira Perez
Teacher Assistant / Teacher ~ Preschool Classroom A | Ages 4–5
Yadira joined the Early Start team in 2026, bringing nine years of experience in early childhood education. She holds an Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Education and Family Studies, along with a certificate in the same field.
Yadira's passion for early childhood education comes from the opportunity to be part of children's earliest learning experiences and watch them discover the world around them. She especially enjoys seeing children develop their unique personalities, express their ideas, and celebrate their accomplishments. She believes every child deserves to feel safe, loved, and heard while having opportunities to explore, play, and develop their imagination.
One of Yadira's favorite activities with children is reading stories and connecting with them through meaningful conversations. Outside of the classroom, she enjoys exploring nature and creating content for social media. Her favorite children's book is The Very Hungry Caterpillar.
Monica Ramirez
Teacher ~ Preschool Classroom C | Ages 3–4
Monica has approximately three years of experience in early childhood education and has been part of the Early Start team for one year. She holds an Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Education and Family Studies and has completed additional professional training in the field.
For Monica, one of the most rewarding parts of teaching is guiding children through an important stage of their lives. She appreciates the curiosity, spontaneity, and unique perspectives children bring into the classroom. Rather than having one favorite part of the day, she enjoys the unexpected moments that make each day special.
Monica values creating a sense of belonging where children feel respected, included, and comfortable being themselves. She enjoys art, music, and movement activities that encourage creativity and self-expression. Outside of Early Start, she enjoys spending time with her family, listening to music, and practicing yoga. One of her favorite children's books is The Very Hungry Caterpillar.
Estefania Almanza
Teacher Assistant / Teacher ~ Preschool Classroom C | Ages 3–4
Estefanía has three and a half years of experience in early childhood education and has been part of the Early Start team for one year. She is currently pursuing her Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Education and Family Studies.
Estefanía has always enjoyed spending time with children, playing alongside them, and helping them discover new things. What she loves most about teaching is seeing how children learn naturally through laughter, play, and everyday experiences. One of her favorite moments is receiving hugs and sharing laughter with the children, knowing they feel comfortable and happy in her care.
She especially enjoys watching children gain confidence and accomplish things they once thought they couldn't do. Singing and dancing are among her favorite activities to share with children. Outside of Early Start, Estefanía enjoys hiking and spending time with her family. One of her favorite children's stories is The Three Little Pigs.
Kariana Hernandez
Teacher ~ Infant & Toddler Classroom | Ages 1–3
Kariana has two years of experience in early childhood education and has been part of the Early Start team for a year and a half. She continues her education through professional development and training focused on child development and early learning.
Kariana has always enjoyed being around young children and being part of their earliest learning experiences. She finds it especially rewarding to watch each child develop their own personality, discover new abilities, and accomplish things that once seemed difficult. She loves witnessing those little moments of excitement and knowing she played a part in their progress.
Kariana believes in recognizing each child as an individual and respecting their unique pace of development. She enjoys creating opportunities for children to explore, express themselves, and build independence through play. Some of her favorite activities include singing, art, and sensory experiences. Outside of Early Start, Kariana enjoys cooking for her family. One of her favorite children's books is If You Give a Mouse a Cookie.
Miriam Sandoval
Teacher Assistant / Teacher ~ Infant & Toddler Classroom | Ages 1–3
Miriam joined the Early Start team in 2026 with certifications in Preschool Education and Infant & Toddler Care, along with additional training in child development. Her experience began through teaching practice and volunteer work, where she developed her passion for early childhood education.
Miriam was inspired to become a teacher by her own kindergarten teacher, whose kindness and patience left a lasting impression on her. Since childhood, she has dreamed of making the same positive difference in children's lives. She especially enjoys celebrating children's accomplishments and discoveries.
One of Miriam's favorite parts of the day is circle time, when children come together to sing, read stories, and connect. She strives to help every child feel loved, respected, and valued. Outside of Early Start, Miriam enjoys spending time with her family and relaxing with a cup of coffee. One of her favorite children's books is A Chair for My Mother.
Soledad Morales
Housekeeper & Classroom Assistant ~ Center-Wide Support
Soledad has been a valued member of the Early Start team for three and a half years. She helps prepare meals, maintain a clean and welcoming environment, and support teachers across classrooms. She also continues her education through early childhood education courses and professional development.
Soledad's passion for working with children comes from the joy of being part of their earliest discoveries and milestones. She especially appreciates children's honesty, curiosity, and excitement as they experience the world around them. Some of her favorite moments are welcoming children in the morning, sharing stories, and seeing their smiles throughout the day.
She enjoys creative activities, reading stories, and helping children express their emotions. Outside of Early Start, Soledad loves cooking, dancing, and spending time with her family. As a proud mother and grandmother, family holds a special place in her heart. One of her favorite children's books is The Three Little Pigs.