Dedicated to Nurturing Care

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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.

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.

Assistant

Rachel’s journey with Rise and Shine began in 2023 as a student completing her volunteer and observation hours. Her dedication, enthusiasm, and commitment to early childhood education quickly stood out, leading our leadership team to offer her a position with our Humboldt Street Team.

After two wonderful years, Rachel took a year-long break to travel abroad. We were thrilled to welcome her back, first sharing her expertise in infant care at our Rohnert Park facility and, most recently, returning to her original home with the Humboldt Street Team.

We are so happy to have Rachel back and grateful for the experience, warmth, and dedication she brings to our Rise and Shine family!