We believe the strength of our program comes from the dedication of our teaching staff.

Extensive Educational Qualifications
  • All Classroom Teachers possess college degrees and/or Child Development Associate Credential
  • All staff members receive annual continuing education to develop and strengthen their skills and to stay current on developing research and techniques in Early Childhood Education
  • All staff members have completed or are in the process of completing the following courses:

    • Brain Research
    Emergent Literacy
    Child Growth and Development
    Preschool Appropriate Practices
    Health, Safety, and Nutrition
    Child Care Facility Rules and Regulations
    Behavior Observation
    Identifying and Reporting Child Abuse and Neglect

  • All Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten Teachers have completed the Standards Training Course
Quality, Caring Staff
  • Each staff member is chosen carefully not only for their education and experience, but for the special qualities they possess as individuals.
  • Our teachers create a caring and nurturing atmosphere and help foster each child's creativity and a positive self-image.
  • Staff members treat each child with respect and kindness.
Keeping Your Child Safe
  • All staff members have been trained to follow the School Emergency Preparedness Plan in the event of an incident or threatening weather.
  • All staff members have passed the screening and fingerprinting process through the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and have undergone an employment history check as part of our employment process.
  • Staff members with CPR and First Aid Training credentials are always present during operating hours.
  • Administrators ensure that the school and playground equipment is safe and well maintained.
  • Attendance records are maintained by all staff at all times ensuring that each child is under the direct supervision of staff and only released to authorized adults.
We're Here For You
  • Formal and informal methods ensure ongoing communication about each child.
  • All staff are committed to forming a direct partnership with parents in working together to support each child's growth and development.
  • A parent involvement program provides opportunities for parents to get involved and even keep up on parenting tips and training.
 
meet our administrators

Terri Franklin
Director of Azalea Gingerbread School

Mrs. Franklin has been in the field of Early Childhood for over twenty eight years, twenty four of those years with Gingerbread Schools. She holds a Directors Credential and a BA in Human Development from Eckerd College. She is currently attending the University of Phoenix where she is working on her MA in Education, Administration and Supervision.

"I feel that this is the most fun and rewarding job there is. Children are always full of surprises and spontaneous actions. Just looking at their little faces makes you smile!"
   

Vicki Bunday
Director of Bardmoor Gingerbread School

Mrs. Bunday has been in the field of Early Childhood for over fifteen years, twelve as an Administrator for Gingerbread School. She holds a Directors Credential and Child Development Associate and is currently attending St. Petersburg College working toward a degree in Early Childhood Education. Mrs. Bunday currently holds the position of Vice President of Programs with the Pinellas Early Childhood Association after serving as Treasurer for four years.

"I love living in the same community with all of the children and families that attend our school. I am rewarded with so many opportunities to interact with my family and theirs."
   

Liz Craig
Assistant Director of Bardmoor Gingerbread School

Mrs. Craig has been with Gingerbread School for over eleven years. She holds a Directors Credential and Child Development Associate. She attended Maryville College in Tennessee and is currently attending St. Petersburg College working toward a degree in Early Childhood Education.

"I feel fortunate to work with people who also believe that helping to shape the children of today will help make a better tomorrow."
   

Michelle Espaillat
Director of Carillon Gingerbread School

Mrs. Espaillat has been in the field of Early Childhood for over fourteen years. She began working at Gingerbread eleven years ago after moving to Florida from New York. Mrs. Espaillat holds an Advanced Level Director Credential, a Child Development Associate Credential and a BA in Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University in Teaneck, New Jersey.

"I chose the field of Early Childhood because 0-5 are the most critical years of a child's life. Providing a safe and stimulating environment where children flourish is extremely rewarding. AndÉworking with children keeps her young at heart!"
   

Ruth Seid
Assistant Director of Carillon Gingerbread School

Mrs. Seid has been in the field of Early Childhood for over thirty years, eleven of those years as an administrator at Gingerbread Schools. She holds a Directors Credential and Child Development Associate. She attended Harrisburg Community College and Bloomsburg University. She is a true advocate for Early Childhood Education and is an active member of the Child Care Apprenticeship Committee of Pinellas County.

"Nothing is closer to heaven than the love of a child."
 
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