Dedicated to Nurturing Care

---

Co-founder & Executive Director 

Cary is an accomplished Early Childhood Administrator and Co-Founder of Rise and Shine Child Care Centers, bringing more than 35 years of experience in early childhood education. She is dedicated to creating exceptional early learning environments that foster child development and nurture the healthy growth of infants, toddlers, and preschoolers through responsive relationships, intentional teaching, and developmentally appropriate practices. As a passionate advocate for the Program for Infant/Toddler Care (PITC) philosophy and the Continuity of Care model, Cary has guided Rise and Shine's growth from a single center to three thriving locations serving families throughout Sonoma County. Under her leadership, Rise and Shine has expanded its continuum of care to include a preschool program, allowing children to continue their learning and personal growth within the same trusted, relationship-centered environment that exemplifies nurturing care. As a PITC Certified Trainer and ECE Program Director Certified, Cary combines strategic leadership with deep expertise in child development, curriculum design, educator mentoring, and ensuring program quality. Her unwavering commitment to excellence continues to shape Rise and Shine as a respected leader in early childhood education, where children, families, and educators thrive together.

Co-founder & Health and Safety Director 

Josiah is a key figure at Rise and Shine Child Care Centers, bringing over 35 years of experience in early childhood education. As the Director of the JC District facility, he supports the daily implementation of teacher-facilitated routines while ensuring nurturing care that is consistent, responsive, and of high quality for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. In his role, Josiah also leads the health and safety component of the organization as Rise and Shine’s Certified Health & Safety Instructor and Certified First Aid/CPR/AED Training Instructor. Through comprehensive staff training, program oversight, and practical leadership, he maintains safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate learning environments across the organization. His commitment to operational excellence, staff preparedness, and the well-being of children and families plays a vital role in upholding the high standards that define the Rise and Shine program, ensuring optimal child development for all.

HR Coordinator 

Lorielle has proudly served as Rise and Shine's HR Coordinator since 2023, playing a vital role in fostering child development through the organization’s early childhood education initiatives. In this capacity, she supports the recruitment, onboarding, employee relations, and personnel systems essential for nurturing care within the Rise & Shine team. Her attention to detail, professionalism, and commitment to fostering a positive environment for staff and organizational excellence make her an integral part of the administrative foundation that drives Rise and Shine's continued growth and success.

Executive Assistant 

Amanda has been an integral part of the Rise and Shine team for more than three years, serving in various roles within early childhood education, including teaching, leadership, and developmental support. She began her journey as a teacher before being promoted to Assistant Director, and later taking on the role of the organization's Early Intervention and Child Development Specialist. In this capacity, she supported developmental observation, individualized planning, and child-centered practices across the centers. Today, Amanda serves as Executive Assistant and Acting Director of our Montgomery Village Center, where she provides leadership in daily operations, staff support, organizational systems, and program quality, partnering closely with executive leadership. Her hands-on experience working with infants, toddlers, and preschoolers gives her a comprehensive understanding of the developmental needs of children at every stage of early childhood. Amanda's versatility, servant leadership, and unwavering commitment to children, families, and educators make her an invaluable member of the Rise and Shine leadership team. Through her dedication to operational excellence and nurturing care, she helps ensure every child experiences a safe, engaging, and supportive environment where they can learn, grow, and thrive.

HSI Certified Instructor & Lead Teacher  

Ian has been a valued member of the Rise and Shine team since 2022, bringing with him exceptional qualities that enhance early childhood education at the Montgomery Village facility. His warm, 'big brother' influence creates an environment of nurturing care, naturally attracting children with his positive energy, engagement, and enthusiasm each day. In addition to his contributions in the classroom, Ian serves as a Certified Health & Safety Instructor, facilitating Rise and Shine's First Aid/CPR/AED community trainings. This role extends the organization's commitment to child development and safety beyond the classroom. His dynamic leadership and innate connection with children make him an essential part of the Rise and Shine team.

Aide 

 Rachelle is a valued member of our Montgomery Village team, where she supports classroom operations and daily care routines as an Aide. Her positive attitude, dependable presence, and commitment to nurturing care contribute to the warm and supportive environment we provide for children each day.

Rachelle continues to invest in her professional growth in early childhood education as she works toward completing her Early Childhood Education units. Her eagerness to learn, dedication to child development, and commitment to providing attentive, nurturing care make her an important part of the Rise and Shine team.

Lead Teacher 

Maia has been an invaluable member of the Rise and Shine team since 2022. As the Lead Teacher at the JC District facility, she plays a crucial role in implementing high-quality daily care routines while fostering nurturing care and developmentally responsive environments for infants and toddlers. Maia has shown exceptional leadership and dedication to early childhood education, demonstrating significant professional growth throughout her journey with Rise and Shine. Currently, she is training for future advancement into a director role, highlighting her commitment to excellence and her passion for enhancing child development within the organization’s future leadership.

Teacher 

Amy has been a valued member of the Rise and Shine team for over three years. As a dedicated teacher at the JC District facility, she has provided a steady, nurturing, and dependable presence for the children, families, and staff she serves each day. Amy's commitment to high-quality infant and toddler care, combined with her focus on early childhood education and child development, has made her an integral part of the Rise and Shine team and a trusted figure within the Humboldt Street community.

Teacher 

Fryda is a valued member of our Humboldt Street team, where her gentle presence and caring nature contribute to the warm, nurturing environment we strive to provide each day. As she continues to grow in the field of early childhood education, she is gaining valuable hands-on experience and expanding her knowledge of child development.

Her eagerness to learn, dedication to the children in her care, and commitment to providing nurturing, responsive care reflect the high standards and growth-focused values we uphold at Rise and Shine.

Teacher 

Melinda is a seasoned early childhood education professional who brings a wealth of experience to the Rise and Shine team. With many years of experience as both a teacher and center director in preschool education, she provides exceptional leadership, mentorship, and a deep understanding of child development across the early childhood years. As one of our trusted educators, Melinda supports all of our programs by stepping in wherever she is needed, helping ensure continuity, consistency, and nurturing care in our infant, toddler, and preschool classrooms. Her extensive preschool background has become especially valuable as Rise and Shine expands its continuum of care, providing guidance and support as our preschool program grows. Melinda's reliability, professionalism, and commitment to relationship-based early childhood education make her an invaluable member of our team. Her calming presence, collaborative spirit, and dedication to children, families, and fellow educators help uphold the exceptional standards that define the Rise and Shine experience.

Teacher 

Kinza began her journey with Rise and Shine as a volunteer while earning her observation credits at the JC District facility. Since then, she has developed her skills within the organization and now serves as an Associate Teacher at the Rohnert Park facility, focusing on early childhood education while continuing her studies in child development. Kinza's dedication to professional growth, hands-on learning, and nurturing care embodies the values of growth and excellence embraced by the Rise and Shine team.

Teacher

Aubrey is passionate about creating a warm, welcoming, and engaging environment where young children feel safe, supported, and excited to learn. She enjoys getting to know each child individually—their personality, interests, strengths, and unique ways of learning—so she can provide meaningful experiences that support their growth and development.

She especially enjoys encouraging children’s natural curiosity and creativity, helping them build confidence, develop new skills, and celebrating their accomplishments along the way. For Aubrey, being part of a child’s early years and watching them grow, learn, and discover is one of the most rewarding aspects of teaching.

Her goal is to ensure every child in her care feels valued, encouraged, and supported while developing confidence and a lifelong love of learning.

Teacher

Kaylee has a genuine passion for teaching young children and creating a safe, caring, and engaging environment where every child feels comfortable, valued, loved, and confident. She is dedicated to providing meaningful learning experiences that encourage children to explore, discover, and develop essential skills while enjoying the learning process.

Patient, caring, and dedicated, Kaylee finds great purpose in being part of each child’s early learning journey. She enjoys supporting children as they build confidence, develop important life skills, and discover their individual strengths and abilities.

Kaylee is committed to nurturing each child’s growth and development, providing encouragement and support as they learn, grow, and reach their fullest potential.