Meet Our Leadership Team
Shirley
Owner & Chief Inspiration Officer
Bio
After teaching special education in SAISD for eleven years, my life changed direction. I loved my career however my passion was reaching other families and supporting my own children as a single mother. My mission was clear: To open a center where all kids can succeed and meet the needs of children in today’s environment.
Favorite Children’s Books
What Do You Do With an Idea? by Kobi Yamada
I’ll Always Love You by Hans Wilhelm
The Twelve Gifts of Birth by Charlene Costanzo
Marci
Executive Assistant
Bio
I was raised in San Antonio and have been with the team at Mi Casa for 27 years. My background/education is in Graphic Design and Art Education. Over the years, I have taught Art classes at Mi Casa and also participated in marketing and administrative work. These days, I head up our Yoga and Zumba classes with the kids in addition to working as Ms. Shirley’s assistant. My daughter started her journey here at the age of 2. She graduated from the Pre-K program, and then years later, taught at Mi Casa in the Summer Camp Program.
Favorite Children’s Books
Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak
Bunny Blue by Catherine Stahlmann
10 Little Angels by Andra Simmons & Jone Hallmark
Tamara
Director of Operations
Bio
Prior to working for Mi Casa, I worked for the United States Air Force Child Development Centers, serving on their leadership team and as a teacher for many years. I have 2 children who have gone through the education program at Mi Casa Child. I have been part of the Mi Casa family for 5 years and have a degree in Business Administration. I love being a part of something that sets children up for success and being able to serve the community.
Favorite Children’s Books
Oh The Places You’ll Go by Dr. Seuss
It Looked Like Spilt Milk by Charles G. Shaw
Pete The Cat Rocking In My School Shoes by Eric Litwin
Kaye
Creative Director
Bio
I received my degree in Early Childhood Education from Texas State University and then taught kindergarten and 1st grade in Northeast Independent School District in San Antonio. After 4 years in NEISD, I stepped away from teaching to focus on our family. I started working at Mi Casa in 2014 when my first-born child was enrolled there at the age of 15 months. I have since worked behind the scenes at Mi Casa in curriculum development, marketing, and design. Both my children graduated from the Mi Casa Pre-K program, well prepared and excited to take on elementary school.
Favorite Children’s Books
If You Give A Mouse A Cookie by Laura Numeroff
The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein
The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds
Sheryl
Director of Human Resources
Bio
I have worked with Mi Casa for 30 years. I am currently the Director of Human Resources. I have a degree in Psychology and Criminal Justice from Our Lady of the Lake, and a Master in Curriculum & Instruction in Special Education EC-12 from UTSA. I have raised 2 children, and now I have the pleasure of enjoying 2 grandchildren! I taught Special Education for NISD for 15 years; “I love working with children, not one day is the same, they bring joy to the soul!”
Favorite Children’s Books
The Little Engine That Could by Watty Piper
The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle
Marcus
Horticulturalist
Bio
My name is Marcus and I am from San Antonio, Tx. At Mi Casa Child Center I construct gardens to educate and create a space for the children to participate and learn where our food comes from. This drive led me to pursue a degree in Environmental Science where I concentrated on agriculture and organic growing at Texas State University. After graduation I worked for the United States Department of Agriculture in the Farm Service Agency where I gained valuable experience in the field. However, I wanted to make a more direct impact on the community and share my knowledge with others. With my expertise in agriculture and the environment, I have been successful in spreading the importance of sustainable food systems and empowering the next generation to take charge of their own food sources. Thanks to the passion for childhood development and allowing me to inspire and leave a lasting impact here at Mi Casa Learning Centers. I believe the work we do here is a testament to the positive change that one person can make in the world and will continue to strive towards a more sustainable future.