Center Director
Meet Tara Griffin, our dedicated School Director who has been an integral part of our school since the summer of 2023.
Tara is not only a professional in early childhood education but also a loving wife and mother of three wonderful daughters: Madyson, Kyla, and Zoey. With her warm demeanor and passion for children's development, Tara brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to our team.
Tara holds a Bachelor's degree in Social Work, which has equipped her with invaluable skills in understanding and supporting children and families. Additionally, she possesses a Master's degree in Non-profit Administration, reflecting her commitment to organizational excellence and community impact.
Her journey in childcare began in 2020, working in private childcare centers. Tara's dedication and natural aptitude for nurturing young minds quickly led her to the Pre-K classroom, where she spent six months teaching before transitioning into management roles. Since then, she has thrived in managerial positions, leveraging her expertise to create a positive and enriching environment for both children and staff.
Beyond her professional pursuits, Tara enjoys spending quality time with her family and friends. She is an avid cook, delighting in preparing delicious meals for her loved ones. When she's not in the kitchen, you can find her immersed in a captivating true crime novel, feeding her curiosity for mystery and investigation.
One of Tara's favorite aspects of her role is witnessing the joy of learning in children. She cherishes the hugs exchanged at the beginning and end of each day, fostering strong bonds with both children and families. Tara's genuine care and dedication make her an invaluable member of our Children's Lighthouse community.
We are incredibly grateful to have Tara Griffin as part of our team, guiding and nurturing the bright minds of tomorrow with compassion and dedication.
Assistant Director
At the heart of our school is Ana Rodriguez, our Assistant Director, whose passion for education and unwavering dedication to families guides our center every day.
Ana's journey into the world of childcare is as inspiring as it is heartwarming. Having spent over 20 years in the retail sector, where she excelled as a manager at Payless, Ana's life took a beautiful turn when she welcomed her son, Angel, into the world. It was during this transformative period that Ana realized her true calling lay in nurturing young minds and shaping the future generation.
In 2016, Ana embarked on a new career path, transitioning into childcare. From the moment she stepped into the classroom, Ana knew she had found her passion and purpose. Her innate ability to connect with children and create enriching learning environments set her apart, earning her recognition and admiration from colleagues and families alike.
Ana's journey with Children's Lighthouse began in 2020 when she joined our team as an Infant & Toddler Teacher for our Bright Curriculum program. Her dedication to fostering holistic development and providing a nurturing environment for our youngest learners quickly caught the attention of our management team.
In 2022, Ana moved into a management role, becoming the face of our establishment and the cornerstone of our administrative operations.
In 2025, Ana seamlessly transitioned into the role of assistant director. Her warm smile, compassionate demeanor, and tireless work ethic have made her an indispensable asset to our school.
Outside of her professional duties, Ana finds joy in spending quality time with her extended family, soaking up the sun at the pool or park, and indulging in her love for literature. Family time with friends and watching reality TV, particularly "Survivor," are among her favorite pastimes.
When asked about her experience at Children's Lighthouse of WoodCreek Reserve, Ana's face lights up with enthusiasm. For her, the best part of working is being part of our Lighthouse family and witnessing the meaningful relationships that we create with our families and students. Every interaction, whether big or small, is infused with Ana's genuine care and dedication to supporting the growth and development of every child.
In Ana, we are privileged to have a devoted mother, a passionate educator, and a valued member of our team. Her unwavering commitment to excellence and her genuine love for children and families make her an indispensable pillar of our school. As we continue to strive for excellence in early childhood education, Ana's presence ensures that our Lighthouse continues to shine brightly for generations to come.