Meet the people
who
love your children.
Our team brings decades of experience, a passion for play-based learning, and genuine warmth to every classroom. With six bilingual teachers, we celebrate and support the diverse languages and cultures of our families.
DIRECTOR
Ms. Kim Love
Founder & Director
I have been so fortunate to spend over 25 years doing work I love in early childhood education — as a teacher, director, and mentor to other educators.In 2011, I opened a small in-home program with just 6 children. That program has grown into the Reggio Emilia-inspired Infant care and Preschool center we have today, and I am grateful every day for the community we have built together.
I am also in the exciting early stages of launching Love in Action Parenting, a parent coaching practice where I get to support families in building deeper, more connected relationships with their children by focusing on their strengths and the vision they have for their family. It is a natural extension of the work that has always been important to me.
Outside of work, my favorite place to be is with the people I love. Whether we’re out exploring, traveling somewhere new, making something, or just hunting for treasures at the thrift store, time with family and friends is what centers and energizes me.
LEADERSHIP & ADMINISTRATION
Mr. Bryan
Site Supervisor
Hello! I was born in Los Angeles, California and raised in Mexico. My family moved to Mexico when I was 3 months old and decided to move back to the United States when I was 12. When I entered school here in the United States, I was only able to compose a simple sentence in English that would allow people to know my name. Overall, it was a difficult process because I could not communicate as well as I wanted to at school. This experience played a major role in why I have an interest in pursuing a career that includes helping children. My interest grew when I began working as a Sunday school teacher at my local church, which I continue to enjoy doing. I also taught at another local preschool before this. I was the first of my entire family to attend college, and obtained an AA in Early Childhood Education. During my free time, I enjoy spending time with my wife, daughter, Eva, and son Santiago traveling, hiking and spending time with our families.
Ms. Leah
Site Supervisor
Hi! I'm Leah Figueroa, and I am so excited to be a part of the Bright Life Playschool family as a co-site supervisor. I've been in the childcare field for over 12 years. From helping my mom prepare crafts for her pre-K classroom to directing programs of my own, my passion for early childhood education has only deepened. I’ve had the opportunity to work in both traditional preschool settings and aftercare programs, always prioritizing safety, empathy, and advocacy for both kids and.Two years ago, my family and I—my husband Jesse, our son Judah, and daughter Elena-moved to SLO County from Orange County. I had the pleasure of directing a local preschool here and am now thrilled about this new opportunity at Bright Life. When I'm not working, you can find us playing at the beach in Morro Bay or enjoying Mexican food at our favorite restaurant. I also love hosting friends, reading, crocheting, and hunting for treasures at thrift stores. I'm excited to get to know the community here at Bright Life and look forward to connecting with you all!
Ms. Amber
Co-Lead Teacher & Admin Support
I have had the privilege of working with young children for the past thirteen years, and it has been an incredibly rewarding journey. After moving to the Central Coast with my husband, I joined Bright Life Playschool and was immediately drawn to its strong foundation in the Reggio Emilia approach. During that time, I developed a deep appreciation for the infant stage and the incredible growth that takes place during those early months. I have now been part of the Bright Life community for 8 years, and I am incredibly grateful for the relationships and opportunities it has provided. Working with both infants and preschool-aged children has allowed me to grow as an educator, develop engaging and meaningful curriculum, and build lasting partnerships with families.
I am thrilled to be teaching Transitional Kindergarten (TK) and supporting the Admin Team in the upcoming school year. I look forward to helping children build the academic, social, and emotional skills and supporting the families within Bright Life Playschool. My goal is to support both parents and students to feel confident and capable. I am excited for the year ahead and look forward to creating meaningful relationships with both my students and their families as we learn, grow, and celebrate together.
We strive to hire passionate teachers with the knowledge and professional commitment to provide enhanced learning experiences for children — using multiple approaches based on the latest research in child development.
PEAPODS
Young Infants (Approximately 3–14 months old)
Ms. Sammi
Lead Teacher
I have lived on the Central Coast my entire life, and I was a nanny for three kids, all under the age of five, for two years. I enjoyed watching them learn through play and exploration, which sparked my passion for teaching in new, innovative ways. I love it here at Bright Life with all the wonderful teachers and families!
Ms. Kacey
Co-Lead Teacher
I'm so excited to be joining the Bright Life team! In my free time, I enjoy going to the gym and spending time with my family!
Two years ago, I discovered my passion for working with young children, and since then, I’ve had the opportunity to work in a variety of settings. I find so much joy in watching children explore, develop new skills, and build confidence in themselves.
I'm currently enrolled at Cuesta College, taking child development classes, and I’m looking forward to continuing to learn and grow alongside the amazing Bright Life team!
Ms. Kimmie
Assistant Teacher
Hello! My name is Kimberly, and I am very excited to be part of Bright Life. I was born in Tennessee, and at the age of two I moved to Mexico, where I grew up until I returned at 16. During my time in Mexico, I discovered a strong passion for caring for children. From a very young age, one of my favorite things to do was spend time with babies. I often visited neighbors who had newborns, and I truly enjoyed helping and observing their growth and development. I am very excited to be part of this school and have the opportunity to work doing something I genuinely love, is a wonderful experience.
SPROUTS
Infants (Approximately 6–14 months old)
Ms. Cecile
Lead Teacher
I live in the Five Cities area with my 3 kids! One of which is off to college! I graduated from Folsom Lake College with my degree in Early Childhood Education in 2005, and I enjoy the creativity and imagination that this role brings every day. I’ve been privileged to work with children across all age groups, from nurturing the youngest infants to guiding school-age students, and to lead an after-school program along the way. I am always learning something new from each child and peer interaction. I am excited to learn and grow with this program and cannot wait to see where each year takes us.
Ms. Anna
Co-Lead Teacher
Hi! My name is Miss Anna. I’m so excited to once again be in the Sprouts classroom at Bright Life Playschool!
I started my journey in early childhood education in 2020, working as a teachers aide while also taking ECE classes. I decided to continue my journey as an educator at BLPS in March. I am beyond happy to be here!
My personal teaching philosophy always begins with play. I love how much bright life embraces this! Children learn so much about the real world exploring through play. I love being able to see the growth and development of each child with every activity.
In this new school year I am really looking forward to making strong connections with each child. One of my favorite parts of this job is knowing I am a safe space for each individual child. I will be bringing this energy into the new school year!
Ms. Sonja
Assistant Teacher
Hello! My name is Sonja Hendry. I was raised in Santa Cruz, CA and have lived in Colorado Springs, CO and San Luis Obispo. I got married in 2023 to my wife who was born and raised in San Luis Obispo. I have worked with children as a babysitter, nanny, After School Care provider, infant daycare provider, and a preschool teacher at a Reggio-Emilia inspired preschool. All together, I have over 10 years of child care experience. I am passionate about play-based learning, as I believe it is an incredible way to work with and teach young children. I am working towards an Associates Degree in Child Development and Family Studies through Cuesta Community College and hope to grow from there. I am so glad to be a part of the Bright Life Playschool community!
POPPYSEEDS
Young Toddlers (Approximately 12-24 months old)
Ms. Daisy
Co-Lead Teacher
Hello everyone! I am from Guadalupe, a small townalong the California coast. I grew up alongside three older brothers and my mom and dad. As I reflect back, I always enjoyed learning, and as I grew older, I found myself helping in the classroom and guiding young ones. As a teenager, I volunteered in after-school programs and realized I was meant to be in a classroom helping children explore in a safe, supportive environment. I knew that there was absolutely nothing else I wanted to do. I decided to obtain my B.A In Early Childhood Studies from California State University Channel Islands. This was a huge accomplishment for me since I was the first one in my family to attend college and get mydegree. My main goal is to provide an environment where children feel safe to explore, observe, play, make a mess, laugh, and learn! I strive to let our children know that they are capable of somuch, and can do anything that they set their minds to. I am bilingual in Spanish and English and love to bring it into our daily classroom life! In my free time, I enjoy reading, knitting, baking, going to new places, and spending time with my family.
Ms. Carlie
Co-Lead Teacher
Hi my name is Carlie Foster and I am so excited to be a part of the Bright Life Playschool team! I started teaching in 2021 as a substitute teacher in Washington State. I was able to work my way up to gain experience working with infants all the way to 5th graders! I am currently pursuing my degree in Elementary Education at Cuesta College after relocating from Washington. I have absolutely loved growing and learning with my students and I can’t wait to continue growing with Bright Life!
MUDPIES
Toddlers (Approximately 2 - 3 years old)
Ms. Ivy
Lead Teacher
Greetings! I am thrilled to join the amazing team of teachers here at Bright Life Playschool. I studied Spanish and Education in college, and have had the privilege of working with and nurturing children of all ages throughout my life. After working as a middle and high school teacher in Tennessee for several years, I am now very grateful for the opportunity to return to my passion of working with younger children here in the beautiful San Luis Obispo. I love the curiosity, awe, and playfulness of young minds, and I whole-heartedly embrace the opportunity to explore and learn alongside these precious young children placed in our care.
Ms. Tyra
Co-Teacher
So happy to be joining the Bright Life Playschool community! I’ve worked with kids in both classroom and after-school settings, and I love creating spaces where children feel safe, supported, and free to explore who they are.I’ve spent the past few years helping young learners grow socially and emotionally, including supporting students with special needs. What really drew me to Bright Life is the focus on play-based learning, connection, and seeing each child as capable and full of potential. Outside of the classroom, I love spending time outdoors, playing with my dog, and being with my family. I’m looking forward to getting to know your kiddos and growing alongside them this year!
RAINBOWS
Preschool (Approximately 2 - 4 years old)
Ms. Sarah
Lead Teacher
I am so excited to be part of the Bright Life family! Before joining Bright Life, I worked as a respite care worker while attending school. I graduated in June 2024 with my bachelor's in Child Development from Cal Poly SLO. I am passionate about creating a welcoming environment where all children feel respected and cared for. Outside of the classroom, I like to read, embroider, and spend time with friends and family. I am honored to have the opportunity to grow and learn alongside your child!
Ms. Diana
Co-Lead Teacher
Hello, I’m Ms. Diana. I have been a part of the Bright Life team for almost a year now and I am enjoying every moment of it. I am currently enrolled in community college pursuing a degree in Liberal Studies. One thing I enjoy about Bright Life is the community we have built and how caring everyone is towards one another. I look forward to supporting your children this upcoming school year by providing a safe and comfortable learning environment. I am looking forward to growing with your kiddos!
RAINDROPS
Transitional Kindergarten (Approximately 3.5 - 5 years old)
Ms. Kenna
Co-Lead Teacher
Hello! My name is Ms. Kenna, and I am thrilled to introduce myself as a preschool teacher. Over the past year and a half, I’ve had the joy of working with Preschool age children, and prior to that, I spent six years working closely with children in various capacities and ages. I recently graduated from Cuesta College in May 2024, earning my Associate's degree in Early Childhood Education. My ultimate aspiration is to become an elementary teacher, where I can foster a safe and nurturing environment that inspires children to be curious and eager learners. Teaching has been my dream since I was just five years old, and I am incredibly excited to continue pursuing this passion at Bright life. I look forward to continuing to know each child in my class and helping them learn and grow in a safe place. Outside of the classroom, I enjoy gardening, cooking, and baking—activities that not only bring me joy but also allow me to cultivate creativity and share experiences with friends and family. I can't wait to get to know you all and make lasting memories with your wonderful children!
Ms. Amber
Co-Lead Teacher & Admin Support
I have had the privilege of working with young children for the past thirteen years, and it has been an incredibly rewarding journey. After moving to the Central Coast with my husband, I joined Bright Life Playschool and was immediately drawn to its strong foundation in the Reggio Emilia approach. During that time, I developed a deep appreciation for the infant stage and the incredible growth that takes place during those early months. I have now been part of the Bright Life community for 8 years, and I am incredibly grateful for the relationships and opportunities it has provided. Working with both infants and preschool-aged children has allowed me to grow as an educator, develop engaging and meaningful curriculum, and build lasting partnerships with families.
I am thrilled to be teaching Transitional Kindergarten (TK) and supporting the Admin Team in the upcoming school year. I look forward to helping children build the academic, social, and emotional skills and supporting the families within Bright Life Playschool. My goal is to support both parents and students to feel confident and capable. I am excited for the year ahead and look forward to creating meaningful relationships with both my students and their families as we learn, grow, and celebrate together.
FLOATER TEACHERS
Supporting all classroom across the campus
Ms. Camryn
Floater Teacher
Hi! I’m Camryn Christensen and I’m Child Development major at Cal Poly with minors in Linguistics and Dance. I am originally from Fresno, California, where I grew up assisting my mom in her Kindergarten classroom, fueling my passion for working with kids.
Before I started working at Bright Life, I was a dance instructor and coach. I have led classes across a variety of styles, helping students build confidence, discipline, and creativity. I am also the Captain the Cal Poly Dance Team. I’m so grateful I get to continue dancing at a collegiate level.
After I graduate with my bachelor’s, I aspire to become a Speech-Language Pathologist, combining my background in child development, language, and movement to support children’s communication and overall development.
Ms. Dalee
Floater Teacher
I’ve worked with children for over 20 years in a wide range of roles, and I’ve always found meaning in supporting their growth and curiosity. Before moving to this area, I lived in Portland, Oregon, where I studied Graphic Design and Architecture and worked as a supervisor and instructor in a Kids Academy. I’ve moved often throughout my life—including living in a remote Yu’pik village on the Alaskan tundra that was only accessible by bush plane. These experiences shaped my deep appreciation for different cultures, languages, and ways of life. I’ve studied Arabic and French, and I enjoy sharing songs and stories from around the world with the children I work with. As one of seven siblings and a mom to two boys (one now a teenager), I bring a family-centered, creative, and flexible perspective to the classroom. When I’m not at school, you can usually find me longboarding with my kids, creating 3D digital art on my self-built computer, or oil painting in my studio.
Ms. Cindy
Floater Teacher
Hello! I was born and raised here on the Central Coast, but I also spent half my childhood in Mexico. My husband and I are first-time parents to a beautiful little boy. As a family, we love to go on road trips, enjoy the outdoors, and spend time with our families. I have worked with children of many ages as a nanny, Behavioral Therapist, and Preschool Teacher. I have a Bachelor's degree in Child and Adolescent Studies from Cal State Fullerton, with a concentration in Family and Community Contexts. My passion is to support children's creativity, and getting to know each one of them is important to give them the right tools to succeed. My goal has always been to provide a safe, comfortable, and fun environment for children and their families.
Ms. Rebecca
Floater Teacher
Hi! I am Rebecca, I was raised in Paso Robles and live in Los Osos. I am a passionate preschool teacher dedicated to nurturing young minds and creating a joyful learning environment. I am also a student at Chico State (online) striving towards my elementary teaching credentials! Outside the classroom, I thrive in the great outdoors, spending my days by the lake or soaking up the sun at the beach. I love paddle boarding and hiking, always seeking new adventures and a connection with nature. I also enjoy writing poetry, yoga, and baking brownies. I love to be around my big, loving family, who are my greatest supporters. I take pride in being an auntie to 8 wonderful nieces and nephews! I have a warm heart and a zest for life, I bring creativity and enthusiasm both to my students and my personal pursuits.