Mr. Erin
Mr. Erin is the Director of New Discoveries Preschool and has been part of the team since 2022. With over 25 years of experience in Early Childhood Education, Erin has dedicated his career to creating supportive, nurturing environments where children can thrive. He is passionate about building strong relationships with families, fostering leadership within his staff, and believes in the power of early learning to set the foundation for lifelong success.
Erin is also a proud father to his daughter, Lanie. When he’s not at leading our center, he enjoys spending quality time with his family and friends, staying connected to the community, and making lasting memories. His dedication, warmth, and leadership continue to make New Discoveries Preschool a place where children feel safe, loved, and inspired to grow.
Ms. Yarisma
Ms. Yarisma is one of our Assistant Directors at New Discoveries Preschool and has been part of our team since 2020. She began her journey in the Two’s classroom, where she gained valuable experience meeting children’s needs and connecting with them on a personal level. With an Associate degree in Elementary Education, Yarisma has always had a strong passion for working with children and helping them grow in a loving, supportive environment.
She is fluent in both English and Spanish, which allows her to connect with families and children in meaningful ways. Outside of school, Yarisma enjoys spending time with her friends, watching movies, trying out new restaurants, and searching for the best coffee spots around town. Her warmth, dedication, and leadership make her an important part of the New Discoveries community.
Ashley Cruz
Mrs. Ashley Cruz is the Managing Director of Bright Star Preschool and has been part of our preschool family since 2009. She began her journey with us as a summer staff member at our sister school and quickly discovered her passion for early childhood education. In 2012, she stepped into the role of Assistant Director, and soon after served as the Director of Bright Star Preschool for six years, where she made a lasting impact on children, families, and staff alike.
Today, Ashley oversees Bright Star Preschool while also lending her leadership and expertise to our sister schools, New Discoveries Preschool and Creative Kids Preschool. She holds a degree in Early Childhood Education and brings with her extensive experience, including valuable time working with children with special needs. Ashley is deeply committed to ensuring that every child is supported as an individual and given the opportunity to thrive.
Her dedication, experience, and genuine love for children make Ashley an exceptional leader and a trusted guide for families in our community. We are proud to have her leading with care, knowledge, and heart.
Rachel Paquette
Ms. Rachel Paquette is the Executive Director and School Nurse for Creative Kids Preschool, New Discoveries Preschool, and Bright Star Preschool. Her journey in childcare began in high school when her family opened a small home childcare program. During those years, Rachel worked as both an assistant and lead teacher, and later continued at Creative Kids Preschool while pursuing her nursing degree.
Rachel earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Arizona, graduating summa cum laude. She is a licensed Registered Nurse (RN) and an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). Her professional background includes experience in labor and delivery, home visiting programs that supported young families, and several years serving as a school nurse for elementary and middle school students.
Today, Rachel combines her healthcare expertise, leadership, and passion for education to guide all three preschools. Her unique blend of skills allows her to create safe, nurturing environments where children can thrive, while also supporting families and staff in meaningful ways.
Her dedication, strong leadership, and heart for children and families make Rachel an invaluable part of the preschool community.