Ms. Yarisma
Ms. Yarisma is the Director at New Discoveries Preschool and has been part of our team since 2020. She began her journey in the Two’s classroom, where she built strong connections with children and families while developing a deep understanding of their needs. She served as Assistant Director for over two years before stepping into her current leadership role. With an Associate degree in Elementary Education, Yarisma is passionate about supporting children’s growth and creating a loving, nurturing environment where they can thrive.
Yarisma is known for her dedication, strong leadership, and thoughtful approach to both children and staff. She is fluent in both English and Spanish, allowing her to build meaningful relationships with a diverse community of families.
Outside of school, Yarisma enjoys spending time with her friends, watching movies, trying new restaurants, and searching for the best coffee spots around town. Her warmth, intelligence, and genuine care for others make her an incredible leader and a valued part of the New Discoveries community.
Mrs. Michelle
Mrs. Michelle Anderson is the Assistant Director at New Discoveries Preschool and has been part of our team since 2026. With 28 years of experience in early childhood education, Michelle has worked with children of all ages, with a special passion for preschool-aged learners. She has also served as both an Assistant Director and Director, helping schools grow into nurturing environments where children can learn and thrive.
Michelle is passionate about building strong relationships with children and families and creating a caring, supportive environment for every child. She values partnering with families to ensure each child has a positive and meaningful preschool experience.
Outside of school, Michelle enjoys spending time with her family and is actively involved in her church and community. She has a heart for serving others, including participating in outreach efforts such as feeding the homeless. Her warmth, experience, and dedication make her a valued part of the New Discoveries community.
Mrs. Ashley
Mrs. Ashley Cruz is the Managing Director of New Discoveries 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 New Discoveries Preschool while also lending her leadership and expertise to our sister schools, Bright Star 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.