I am Wendy Clack, and I am beyond excited to embark on this wonderful journey with you all. With over two decades of childcare experience under my belt, I bring a wealth of knowledge and passion to our community. My educational background includes a degree from the University of Houston Clear Lake, where I earned both an Associate of Applied Science in Child Development and a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education EC-6. Nestled in the warm embrace of Deer Park, my home is a haven shared with my beloved family. Since March 2015, I've had the pleasure of being part of the vibrant Raising Stars Academy community, and now, I am thrilled to take the helm at Raising Stars STEM Center. Guiding young minds and witnessing the spark of discovery light up their faces fills me with profound joy and fulfillment. Beyond my dedication to nurturing young learners, I find solace and inspiration in spending quality time with my loved ones. Fun fact: Disney's Stitch and the delightful world of sloths hold a special place in my heart! As we embark on this exciting journey together, I eagerly anticipate extending our family to include you. Let's create a nurturing environment where your child can flourish and explore, fostering a love for learning that will last a lifetime.
My name is Monica Owens, and I bring 24 years of experience in education, specializing in special education within GISD, CCISD, and DPISD. Throughout my career, I have been passionate about supporting students with diverse needs. I hold a degree in Behavioral Science from the University of Ashford, and I studied Psychology at the University of Phoenix. In addition, I have earned my Child Development Associate (CDA) credential and have received training in toddler and preschool education, Infant/Toddler Early Learning Guidelines, and Prekindergarten Guidelines. Beyond my professional work, I am a devoted mother and grandmother, which is one of the most fulfilling parts of my life. My family is my greatest priority. At Raising Stars STEM Center, I am eager to continue expanding my knowledge in child growth and development while contributing in a nurturing and positive manner to the center’s community.
Hello, I’m Sharonda. I would like to take this opportunity to welcome your family to Raising Stars Academy and to thank you for choosing our childcare facility for your child’s early childhood education needs. With over 18 years of experience in childcare and 5 years of experience in education, I am here to ensure that your child has a positive, safe, and loving experience. Whether you are a first-time parent or one with a few years of experience behind you, we are aware that choosing a daycare can be a very difficult decision. For this reason, we strive to do all we can to help make this choice as easy as possible. My goal is to provide the very best childcare experience for your family so that you may leave with peace of mind knowing your child is receiving unconditional education and care. As a new family to our center, we know that any type of change involving your child can create a variety of different feelings. Please know that we are here to help make this transition as smooth as possible. Thank you for choosing Raising Stars Academy and we look forward to working with you for years to come!
Hello, I'm Kaylee Barnes, the Assistant Director here at Raising Stars Academy. With nearly 11 years of experience in early childhood education, I've always been passionate about working with children. There's nothing more rewarding than seeing their bright smiles each day. I'm also a proud mom of two—Donna, who is 5, and Zeus, who is 4. My husband, Alex, and I have been together for 10 wonderful years. We understand the importance of finding a childcare center that feels like an extension of your family. That's why I'm committed to creating a warm, nurturing environment where your children can thrive. I look forward to getting to know you and your little ones and ensuring they receive the best care at our center.
I'm Kellie Bess, and I bring over four decades of experience in childcare to the table. My journey began when my sons were just babies, and I've had the privilege of teaching in various classes. Over the years, I pursued further education and transitioned into a leadership role, serving as a director for the past two decades. One of the most heartwarming aspects of my job is the daily joy of children running into my office, sharing their hugs as they leave. My family consists of my husband, Tony, and our two grown sons. While I have just one grandchild, she's already well into her third year at Baylor University. You might recognize her from her five summers working here at Kandiland. Outside of work, I find solace in fishing and spending time on the water and being a passionate ASTROS fan. I'm excited to embark on this journey with you and your family, being a part of the incredible learning and growth that happens here. As we get to know one another, please don't hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns you may have. Together with the dedicated Kandiland team, we are committed to providing you with top-quality childcare.
Hello! My name is Jennifer Helton and I originally started with Kandiland in 2010. Through the years I have experienced working in other child related fields but my love of Kandiland always brings me back. I am the proud mother of two college aged sons, so I understand how essential quality childcare is today. We have lived in League City for 21 years and love all that this area has to offer. Kandiland has had my heart for many years, and I am so excited for this new opportunity! I'm looking forward to getting to know you and your family, and being a part of all the learning and growing that goes on here! As we get to know each other, please feel free to contact me at any time with any questions or concerns that you might have! Together with the Kandiland team we will strive to provide you with quality childcare!
Hi!! I am Zendre’ Miranda. I have an associate degree in ECED along with over 20 years of experience in Early Childhood Education. I have enjoyed all facets of ECED. I have taught in Infants - School agers classrooms. I believe in teaching the whole child and tapping into the multiple intelligences of each child individually. At Kandiland Day School we believe that the social, emotional, physical, and spiritual areas of learning are just as important as the academic aspects of learning. As your Center Director, I enjoy partnering with families, staff, and children to create an environment that is warm, welcoming and inspiring. I enjoy watching how each child develops and I am inspired to question how I, and the teachers, can play a role in their development. I love to pour the love of God into children of all ages. I desire to see my little ones grow and develop to fulfill God’s plan for their lives. I believe we can make this world a better place, one child at a time.
Hello! I am Yvette Perez, privileged to hold the position of Director at the esteemed Kid Scholars Academy situated in the charming environs of Sugar Land. With a rich tapestry of 25+ years dedicated to the field of education; I have been entrusted with the directorial role at Kid Scholars Academy for a span of slightly over 6 years. Embracing this role with enthusiasm, I find immense gratification in recognizing our institution as a beacon of aspiration and quality in childcare. It's a joy to share that within our center thrives an exceptional team of dedicated staff members, each possessing a remarkable passion and skill set that contributes to the exceptional care and education we offer.
Hello! I'm Alyssa Santos, a Missouri City native who continues to call this community home. I'm an alumna of Elkins High School and hold certifications in both CPR and First Aid. For more than 11 years, I've been dedicated to working with children in the Missouri City/Sugar Land vicinity. Three years ago, I embarked on my journey with Kid Scholars Academy, focusing on the growth and development of our cherished Preschoolers. My extensive background in Early Childhood Education is complemented by my attainment of a Childhood Development Associate credential. Currently serving as the Assistant Director at Kid Scholars Academy, I am committed to providing positive leadership alongside my director to our exceptional team.
I am Charmaine Thomas. I have worked in the Early Childhood Education field since 1997. My journey began as an assistant teacher in a Head Start classroom. I have since been in a range of roles, including center administrator, Parent Support Specialist, lead teacher, Professional Development Advisor and Coach, and higher education professor at National Louis University, specializing in teacher preparation and licensure. Over the years, my passion for human development led me down a path to mental health counseling. I genuinely love all I do. I am now in a place where all my passions meet. I am working in child development as regional director and college professor where I have the opportunity to work with children and families, while guiding, coaching, and mentoring teachers. I am also a mental health therapist, working with individuals of all ages and backgrounds. In 2010, I earned a BA in Early Childhood Education with a dual major in Psychology of Human Development. I followed that with an M.Ed. in Early Childhood Administration in 2015 and later earning a second master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Although, many feel this is not the end of my collegiate experience, I can say that I will find other creative ways to feed my thirst for knowledge. My philosophy of teaching is that every person, regardless of age and ability, has the capacity to learn if they are taught using teaching methods in their individual style of learning. My philosophy of education is that quality care in early childhood mends the achievement gap while giving every child the tools they need to be successful in all other levels of education. Both of these philosophies are maximized with the right tools and dedication of the educator. Creating lifelong learners of all ages is my ultimate career goal.
I'm Candace King, and my journey in Child Care began in 2006. Since 2013, I've been dedicated to teaching at the State of Illinois Child Development Center, armed with a Bachelor's degree in Child Development from Northern Illinois University. My passion for teaching was ignited by my third-grade teacher, and I strive to inspire the same enthusiasm in the children I work with. Throughout my career, I've had the privilege of engaging with children in various roles, each experience reinforcing my commitment to their growth and development. Witnessing their progress and the retention of knowledge is incredibly gratifying. In August 2023, I transitioned into the role of Assistant Director, where I aim to be a welcoming presence for new families, ensuring their transition is as seamless and comfortable as possible. It's a rewarding journey, and I'm excited to continue making a positive impact on the lives of children and families in our community.
2814 Lavon Dr. Garland, TX 75040
241-501-2109
2229 Cypress Ln, Sugar Land, TX 77478
281-436-6014
1504 Winding Dr Friendswood, TX 77546
346-385-1130
180 Westover Park Ave, League City, Texas 77573
281-338-9625
10825 30th Ave N, Texas City, TX 77591
409-986-4320
9300 Emmett F Lowry #70, Texas City, TX 77591
409-440-8528
Grow Your Center 