Hours of operation: Monday - Friday 7:30 A.M. to 5:30 P.M
Meet The Team
Desiree
Executive Director
Desiree has 16 years of experience in Early Childhood Education. She began her career to be closer to her children, only to discover a passion and calling in early childhood development. Desiree started as a float with Head Start and worked her way up to Director, gaining experience with many age groups and in a variety of roles along the way. Her encouraging leadership, combined with a deep understanding of child development and the importance of building strong relationships, has helped foster a nurturing, supportive team at Bright Start. Desiree is dedicated to continuing Bright Start’s growth in the community to provide even more high-quality care for children and families in the years to come.
Butterfly Teachers
Jenni
Butterfly Classroom
Jenni joined Bright Start Learning Center in May 2024. She is a married mother of five who truly enjoys working with children. Jenni is currently furthering her education by taking Early Childhood Education courses at Colorado Mountain College to continue growing in the field. Outside of work, she loves making memories with her children and spending quality time with friends.
Maria
Butterfly Classroom
Maria has been a preschool teacher for five years and has been part of the Bright Start team for the past three. Originally from San Fernando Valley, California, she moved to Leadville in 2014 and has loved calling it home. Maria is a wife and mother of three. She is currently furthering her education by taking Early Childhood Education courses at Colorado Mountain College. In her free time, Maria enjoys spending time with her family, playing bingo at the Elks on Thursday nights, shopping, listening to music, baking, and cooking.
Dulce
Butterfly Classroom
Dulce was born in Chihuahua, Mexico, and has lived in Leadville for the past three years. She is married and a mother of four. Dulce joined Bright Start in August 2024 and is currently studying Introduction to Early Childhood. In her free time, she loves spending time with her family—no matter where, as long as they are together. They enjoy outdoor activities, and Dulce’s favorite season is summer.
Caterpillar Teachers
Justyne
Caterpillar Classroom
Justyne was raised in Leadville and graduated from LCHS. During her senior year, she completed her internship and community service hours at Bright Start, which sparked her interest in early childhood education. Justyne is currently enrolled at Colorado Mountain College, studying Education and Early Childhood Education. She has worked at Bright Start since May 2023, sharing her passion for creating first educational experiences that are filled with joy, wonder, and a sense of accomplishment—laying a strong foundation for lifelong learning.
Brisa
Caterpillar Classroom
Brisa joined Bright Start during her senior year of high school to complete community service hours. After graduating from CCHS here in Leadville, she began working at Bright Start. Brisa is currently enrolled at Colorado Mountain College, taking Early Childhood Education courses and continuing her professional development. She believes in creating a safe classroom environment filled with curiosity and fun, allowing children’s interests to guide their learning through play. Brisa incorporates hands-on activities with developmentally appropriate practices to foster independence, empathy, and a love of exploration. She recognizes that each child has unique talents and learns at their own pace, which she nurtures with patience and personalized attention.
Selena
Caterpillar Classroom
Selena is a Leadville native and graduated from LCHS. She worked at LCIS for five years before joining Bright Start in August 2024. You may also see Selena at the local Casa Blanca restaurant, where she works part-time. A familiar and friendly face in the community, Selena has been a warm and caring presence for our youngest learners since day one, with children naturally drawn to her. She believes that every child is unique and learns at their own pace and in their own style. Selena creates a welcoming, inclusive classroom environment where children feel safe to explore, learn, and have fun.
