Ms.Ingrid
Pacifica School Director
Bachelor's degree in Cognitive Science with Child Development and Abnormal Psychology
I was born in the Bay Area and lived here most of my life. I graduated from South San Francisco High School before moving to Orange County for my undergraduate studies at the University of California, Irvine. I graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Cognitive Science with a concentration in Child Development and Abnormal Psychology.
I believe that children are competent, independent, and creative individuals with a uniqueness that should be nurtured and expressed. I view play as an important vehicle for all areas of development and growth. It is my duty to provide an environment that caters to my students needs and wants to support growth, exploration, creativity, self-learning, and memorable experiences. I want to create a developmentally appropriate program that allows children to be open minded, think for themselves, and have the ability to express themselves while providing an environment that fosters their social, emotional, cognitive, physical, and language development.
When my students move on from my class, I want them to feel confident and secure in themselves and their learning abilities, with excitement and anticipation for their next educational endeavour.
Ms. Mae
Lead Toddler Teacher
Bachelor's degree in Child and Adolescent Development
Hi! My name is Ms. Mae.
As an adolescent, I was asked the question, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” I answered with, “I want to be a nurse like my mom.” At the end of my senior year, I decided that nursing wasn’t for me and I became undecided. I went to school at a community college taking random classes for an undecided major. My sister suggested I go to a Pharmacy Tech program and I did. After proudly completing the program, I was still feeling unfulfilled. While looking through the classified section of a newspaper, I came across a Nanny position but unfortunately I wasn’t qualified for the job because I had no degree in childcare.
Soon after, I went back to the same community college I started in and majored in Early Childhood Education. The random classes I took counted towards my major. A few semesters later I graduated with an AA Degree in Early Childhood Education. With the newfound degree I transferred to San Francisco State University to pursue my Bachelor’s Degree in Child and Adolescent Development with the concentration on the Young Child. Why did I choose the young child? I enjoy the idea of being a part of an age group where they are young enough to be shown valuable lessons and needs the embrace of a caring caregiver and yet old enough to be independent and choice driven but still need the support, validation and the acknowledgement of said caregiver. And who can resist comforting their tears and who can turn away from hugs whose arms reach just right. I know I can’t. Every day is filled with warmth and love and lots of hugs. That’s why I enjoy working with toddlers.
Ms. Avinna
Preschool Teacher
BA in Consumer & Family Sciences
Hello, my name is Avinna Amores and I am one of the preschool teachers here at Kids Konnect. Throughout my life, I have taken part in babysitting, playing, teaching, and caring for my 2 younger brothers and 8 younger cousins. I cherished being part of their childhood as well as contributing to their growth and development. When college came along, the ECE classes I decided to take at SFSU lured my passion towards early childhood education. After 4 years in SFSU, I received my BA in Consumer & Family Sciences, with an emphasis on Child & Family.
One thing I’ve realized is that teaching young children is an ongoing learning experience. I’m learning just as much as they are! Teaching offers me the opportunity to create a meaningful foundation for their lifelong learning. Playing a role in their early education and childhood experiences; and witnessing them go through their developmental stages, is truly gratifying. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your child’s journey. I look forward to playing and learning with them!
Ms. Jasmine
Preschool Teacher
BA in Child Adolescent Development
Hello Kids Konnect friends! My name is Jasmine, I’m a Bay Area native who loves working with children. I received my AS-T in Early Childhood Education at Skyline College and continued my studies at San Francisco State University. In Spring 2017 I graduated with a B.A in Child and Adolescent Development with a concentration in Early Childhood, and a minor in Special Education.
Being the eldest of 15 grandchildren has had a great influence toward my passion for working with young children. I have learned so much by being a roll model for my siblings and cousins, alone. Over the years, I’ve also gained experience by volunteering at local family events, serving in the children’s ministry at church, nannying, working at Urban Sprouts Preschool, and much more.
In the classroom I strive to expand my knowledge and continue learning new things to help me become a better educator. Having the opportunity to teach children is a rewarding experience and I look forward to working with you and your little! When I’m not teaching in the classroom, on my free time I love to cook, spend quality time with loved ones and travel with my husband.
Ms. Jolene
Pre-K Teacher
BA degree in Early Childhood Education (in progress)
Ms. Pauline
Toddler Teacher
AA degree in Early Childhood Education
Hello! My name is Ms. Pauline and I am one of the toddler teachers. I always had an interest in becoming a teacher from an early age, the vivid memory of my kindergarten teacher rhyming our names to dismiss us still remains with me. I started working at Kids Konnect in 2014, while finishing my degree in Early Childhood Education from Skyline College. Watching the growth of our students as they become independent individuals through play and imagination is an amazing experience. Outside of work, I enjoy traveling and preparing for my next half marathon race. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to be part of the growth of your children.
