Meet Our Team
A Letter from
Our Executive Director
I am honored and humbled to be a part of a 100+ year history of early care and education in New Mexico. Christina Kent Early Childhood Center is not only the first licensed child care program in our beautiful state, but one of the first 100 in the country.
The Women’s Club of Albuquerque was so farsighted when they created a safe, nurturing and quality environment for children so families could work in 1919. The importance of quality child care is as important today as it was then.
Today, Christina Kent is a nationally accredited, 5 star licensed early care and education program proudly serving the diverse working families of Downtown Albuquerque. Our hope is to grow and expand so as to continue our legacy of quality care for more of Albuquerque’s children.
We are proud of our past, excited by our future, and are confident in the quality care and education we are providing our future generation.
Sondra Carpenter
![IMG_8646[1].jpg](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/871b84_47e16c6ac0194adbad74a98e48c4c225~mv2.jpg/v1/crop/x_0,y_58,w_3302,h_3925/fill/w_228,h_271,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/IMG_8646%5B1%5D.jpg)
Andrew Martinez
Director
![IMG_8791[1].jpg](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/871b84_3c126dfc70dd447c99c5638ace080417~mv2.jpg/v1/crop/x_0,y_142,w_3230,h_3839/fill/w_228,h_271,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/IMG_8791%5B1%5D.jpg)
Allison Holman
Program Manager & PreK Coordinator
Administration
![IMG_8704[1].jpg](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/871b84_c503193c9986424883f955a91cb51ee5~mv2.jpg/v1/crop/x_0,y_0,w_3316,h_4669/fill/w_228,h_321,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/IMG_8704%5B1%5D.jpg)
Rodchana Kee
Assistant Director
Camilla O'Sullivan
Assistant Director
Sandra La Luz
Bookkeeper
![IMG_8713[1].jpg](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/871b84_96b51640fd194da88e9a2ee25f5cc981~mv2.jpg/v1/crop/x_0,y_0,w_2917,h_3467/fill/w_228,h_271,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/IMG_8713%5B1%5D.jpg)
Beth Benderman
Bookkeeper
Anna Jimenez
Infant Lead Teacher
Anna began working with children in 2016 and holds an AA in Criminology.
"I chose to work at Christina Kent for the smaller classroom so we are able to have more one-on-one with the kids. The classrooms feel more homey and the infant room is the best!"
Mikaella Gonzales
Infant Teacher
Mikaella began working with children in 2019 and we're excited to expand her experience!
"I chose to work at Christina Kent for the rich history of the school and the incorporation of the Reggio Emilia philosophy."
Leslie Albert
Infant Teacher
Leslie began working with children in 2001 and we're honored to continue to add to her experience!
"I chose Christina Kent because of the high quality of safety and standards, like a low teacher to child ratio. With over 25 years in childcare, I wouldn't be anywhere else. This is home."
Cubs Room
![IMG_8688[1]_edited.jpg](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/871b84_2f5c20ff06744b128dcc07a5bf217af5~mv2.jpg/v1/crop/x_0,y_0,w_2000,h_2377/fill/w_228,h_271,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/IMG_8688%5B1%5D_edited.jpg)
Mariah Gomez-Edmands
Lead Toddler Teacher
Mariah began working with children in 2018 years and is working towards a Child Development Certificate.
"When I say that everyone at Christina Kent has a genuine care and regard for the children, I mean EVERYONE! I feel good knowing that all the educators here know their why. When they show up to work I feel at home and I truly love CK."
![IMG_8635[1].jpg](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/871b84_e71847c2b0e94a6eaf1cc08ac09a94cf~mv2.jpg/v1/crop/x_0,y_0,w_3118,h_3706/fill/w_228,h_271,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/IMG_8635%5B1%5D.jpg)
Gloria Rael
Toddler Teacher
Gloria began working with children in 2001 and holds an Child Development Certificate.
"A former employer mentioned Christina Kent was an amazing school and I would fit right in with the great staff. She mentioned the director Sondra and her awesome spirit. I enjoy coming to work each day. All the staff and administration are awesome. This school rocks!"
Ladybugs Room
![IMG_8630[1].jpg](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/871b84_b6e1e719c125479b812f80c1464b9535~mv2.jpg/v1/crop/x_0,y_40,w_3019,h_3589/fill/w_228,h_271,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/IMG_8630%5B1%5D.jpg)
Priscila Maynez
Co-Lead Teacher
Priscila began working with children in 2017 and is working towards an AA in Early Childhood Education.
"I chose to work at Christina Kent because I value being a part of a community where I can support children's growth and build meaningful connections with families."
Destiny Maez
Co-Lead Teacher
Destiny began working children in 2023 and we're excited to help her grow!
"I chose Christina Kent because of the community. It allows us to teach young minds how to achieve a first and watch their little faces as they make those achievements."
Roly-Polies Room
![IMG_8764[1].jpg](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/871b84_f113355904bd471597bc5ace17ca84ef~mv2.jpg/v1/crop/x_0,y_195,w_3173,h_3772/fill/w_228,h_271,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/IMG_8764%5B1%5D.jpg)
Cheyenne Sanchez
Co-Teacher
Cheyenne began working with children in 2020 and is working towards an AA in Early Childhood Education.
"I chose Christina Kent because I was a nanny for a family that had a child enrolled here, and I truly appreciated the emphasis on community."
![IMG_8753[1].jpg](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/871b84_a8605e5f84394084b51e30a868d055bd~mv2.jpg/v1/crop/x_0,y_0,w_3043,h_3617/fill/w_228,h_271,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/IMG_8753%5B1%5D.jpg)
Erika Hamby
Co-Lead Teacher
Erika holds a BA in Clinical Counseling Psychology and we're excited to help her with her classroom experience!
"Christina Kent was the right fit for me as a former marriage and family therapist. Christina Kent’s educational paradigm resonated with me as someone driven by compassion for children, science, and appreciation for the arts."
![IMG_8641[1].jpg](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/871b84_4e7fcaeb23b14233973099f05a0a9b48~mv2.jpg/v1/crop/x_0,y_219,w_3124,h_3713/fill/w_228,h_271,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/IMG_8641%5B1%5D.jpg)
Hayden Guerrero
Teacher
Hayden began working with children in 2024 and we're excited to help her grow!
"I chose Christina Kent because of the positive environment and the way the teachers are truly appreciated. Its clear that the staff have strong, supportive relationships with one another and they also build caring and positive connection with the children."
Lobos Room
Jolene Gonzales
Early PreK Teacher
Jolene began working with children in 2011 and holds a BA in Family Studies.
"Christina Kent gives me a positive environment to continue to grow in a field I love."
![IMG_8682[1].jpg](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/871b84_e684752bd5364c58b6ca26fcb1d72e4a~mv2.jpg/v1/crop/x_0,y_87,w_3303,h_3926/fill/w_228,h_271,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/IMG_8682%5B1%5D.jpg)
Dominique Romero
Early PreK Lead Teacher
Dominique began working with children in 2020 and holds a BA in Nutrition and a Child Development Certificate.
"I chose Christina Kent because I love the Reggio Emilia approach and helping the kids learn through a more natural and authentic way."
![IMG_8654[1].jpg](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/871b84_23a4d36fda5c40adb029677237e255b8~mv2.jpg/v1/crop/x_0,y_95,w_3098,h_3682/fill/w_228,h_271,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/IMG_8654%5B1%5D.jpg)
Delaila Rivas
Early PreK Teacher
Delaila began working with children in 2004 and is working towards an AA in Early Childhood Education.
"I love working with the kids and in an environment like Christina Kent I can make a lasting impact on young lives while continuing to grow as an educator."
Gila Monsters Room
Cybil Hott-Clark
Mixed PreK Teacher
Cybil has began working with children in 2021 and is working towards a degree in Speech Pathology.
"I love the close knitted environment they foster. Everyone works as a team. I quickly observed that they were all for the children and what is vest for them above all else, which is something I personally value. I feel like Christina Kent aligns with my morals when it comes to caring for children."
![IMG_8731[2].jpg](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/871b84_bf50a572294147598f46e12c8459feee~mv2.jpg/v1/crop/x_0,y_109,w_3095,h_3678/fill/w_228,h_271,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/IMG_8731%5B2%5D.jpg)
Teslin Vigil
Mixed PreK Lead Teacher
Teslin began working with children 1993 and holds an AA in Early Childhood Education.
"I love the freedom Christina Kent gives me to be creative and encourage imagination in the classroom."
![IMG_8769[1].jpg](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/871b84_acf15f694b2a467ba45029fabf6e7504~mv2.jpg/v1/crop/x_0,y_116,w_3293,h_3914/fill/w_228,h_271,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/IMG_8769%5B1%5D.jpg)
Nicholas Volpato
Mixed PreK Teacher
Nick began working with children in 2023 and is working towards an AA in Early Childhood Education.
"I volunteered here in the past and remembered the work they were doing the community. Learning more about the Reggio approach and the philosophies involving the kids helped me realize I had found a program I could take pride in being a part of."
Hummingbirds Room
![IMG_8725[1].jpg](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/871b84_7e8f95484c0b426da0cec7126267632f~mv2.jpg/v1/crop/x_0,y_70,w_3181,h_3781/fill/w_228,h_271,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/IMG_8725%5B1%5D.jpg)
Samantha Bishop
Mixed PreK Teacher
Samantha began working with children in 2020 and is working towards an AA in Early Childhood Education.
"Christina Kent allows children to be independent and creative in their learning and play by allowing them to be the leader in their explorations. This is something that makes CK unique and beautiful.
Sandra Parra
Mixed PreK Lead Teacher
Sandra began working with children in 1996 and is working towards an AA in Early Childhood Education.
"I value the opportunity to be a learner alongside children, discovering new perspectives through their eyes while supporting their development. In those shared moments of curiosity and creativity, we build a space where both teacher and child are constantly learning and evolving."
![IMG_8761[2].jpg](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/871b84_165c9b38cf9f46a2ba386939cf304edd~mv2.jpg/v1/crop/x_0,y_184,w_3227,h_3835/fill/w_228,h_271,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/IMG_8761%5B2%5D.jpg)
Morgan Skeets
Mixed PreK Teacher
Morgan is working towards her BA in Elementary Education and we're excited to help her with her classroom experience!
"I chose Christina Kent because of the community and the approach they have on education. I have truly learned a lot from this school and I'm glad they chose me!"
Teddies Room
Cierra Vajellos
PreK Teacher
Cierra began working with children in 2023 and is working towards a Child Development Certificate.
"I have always loved working with children, especially being part of their imagination, creativity, and everyday joy. Being in a space where learning is hands-on, expressive, and child-centered means a lot to me. It aligns with the kind of teacher I want to become."
![IMG_8776[2].jpg](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/871b84_afe11e01b32d4f8d8f76538df2835314~mv2.jpg/v1/crop/x_0,y_167,w_3456,h_4108/fill/w_228,h_271,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/IMG_8776%5B2%5D.jpg)
Theresa Soto
PreK Lead Teacher
Theresa began working with children in 2014 and is working towards an AA in Early Childhood Education.
"The moment I walked through the doors, I was greeted by the joyful sounds of children’s voices and saw teachers fully engaged with them. Everything felt warm, welcoming, and full of genuine care. In that moment, I knew this was a place where children are truly supported, encouraged, and able to thrive—and a place I was proud to become a part of."
![IMG_8742[1].jpg](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/871b84_43286724dc2a4f99976989722e7107c5~mv2.jpg/v1/crop/x_0,y_153,w_3177,h_3776/fill/w_228,h_271,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/IMG_8742%5B1%5D.jpg)
Shiloh Simonson
PreK Teacher
Shiloh began working with children in 2024 and holds an AA in Early Childhood Education.
"Christina Kent is an amazing place for little ones and their teacher to learn, grow, and thrive!"
Busy Bees Room
Support Staff
Eieomana Zunie-Campbell
Educational Assistant
Eieomana began working with children in 2024 and is working towards her degree in Speech Pathology.
"At Christina Kent, I have the opportunity to change the trajectory of children's lives as I assist them in hitting key milestones. The community at Christina Kent helps me thrive as a teacher."
![IMG_8927[1].jpg](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/871b84_cbca269ef23946c5a1b1401207fdf193~mv2.jpg/v1/crop/x_0,y_121,w_3456,h_4108/fill/w_228,h_271,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/IMG_8927%5B1%5D.jpg)
Malka Samuels
Educational Assistant
Malka was a High School Intern from our neighbor Amy Biehl and joined our team after completing her internship. She's been with us since 2024 and we're honored to help her grow!
"I experienced volunteering for my senior project at Amy Biehl and now I have a career with child care. I am now taking classes at CNM with child care to imporve my education."
Mya Roberts
Educational Assistant
(Summer)
Mya has been working with children for 2 years and is working towards an AA in Kinesiology & Psychology for Pediatric Occupational Therapy.
"I felt the family and connection right away. Everyone is beyond welcoming and has always had both mine and the children's best interest at heart."
Yanira Marrufo
Educational Assistant
Yanira began working with children in 2021 and holds an AA in Psychology.
"I felt can contribute to the growth of more children. After looking into the Reggio Emilia approach, I am excited to help these children explore their interests and develop into independent little people."
Ashley Vance
Educational Assistant
Ashley was an intern from YDI who volunteered with us to gain some early education experience. After she finished her internship, she joined our team in 2026.
![IMG_8625[1].jpg](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/871b84_08b3f9c4f68749619c6c87d52c3cde26~mv2.jpg/v1/crop/x_0,y_394,w_3456,h_4108/fill/w_228,h_271,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/IMG_8625%5B1%5D.jpg)
Maureen Montoya
Assistant Chef
Edith Huizar
Head Chef
![IMG_8750[1].jpg](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/871b84_b70673497e4c41eeb26be5f891780ac9~mv2.jpg/v1/crop/x_0,y_0,w_3071,h_3651/fill/w_228,h_271,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/IMG_8750%5B1%5D.jpg)
Micaela Hernandez
Assistant Chef
Kitchen
