Our Faculty

Our Faculty

Sorrento Valley Children's Center is co-owned and directed by Carol Burkhart and Elena Juarez.


Established and Created in 1983.

Carol Burkhart

Carol Burkhart received her master's degree in Child Development from the University of Tennessee in 1976. After moving to San Diego, she directed a pre-school in the North County area for 5 1/2 years. In addition, Carol has instructed courses in Parent-Child Relations at Palomar Community College. She remains active in San Diego County professional organizations and is the past chair of The Week of the Young Child.

A Bunch of Pencils — San Diego, CA — Sorrento Valley Children's Center
A Bunch of Pencils and an Apple — San Diego, CA — Sorrento Valley Children's Center

Elena Juarez

Elena Juarez is a native San Diegan. She received her Life Standard Elementary California Teaching Credential from San Diego State University in 1975. Elena has teaching experience with all grade levels through junior high. She developed several innovative programs for the Escondido Intersession Program before entering the field of Early Childhood Education. Elena taught in the pre-kindergarten and kindergarten levels for 5 years before opening SVCC.

Carol and Elena are proud to acquaint you with a carefully selected staff of qualified and dedicated professionals.

Ms. rachel - Room 8

I feel very fortunate to have taught at S.V.C.C. for 8 years, helping children grow through hands-on experiences and play while having lots of engaging FUN! This school is very

special and close to my heart because I started my education right in the classroom where your child will begin theirs! I strive to create a memorable year and I assure you that I will love, support, and encourage your child as we make our way through the adventures of preschool!

A Bunch of Pencils — San Diego, CA — Sorrento Valley Children's Center
A Bunch of Pencils — San Diego, CA — Sorrento Valley Children's Center

Ms. Linda - Room 3

I enjoy teaching this age group because they are very curious! They are eager to learn about the world around them. They are actively and enthusiastically involved in their learning. I, in turn, learn many new and interesting things from their experiences and observations. We learn and grow together and have fun!

Ms. Bailey - Room 4

I have a passion and deep love for teaching children, building a future generation of kind and independent humans. At Sorrento Valley Children's Center, I get the opportunity to help children grow and learn to foster new skills and create memories that will last a lifetime!

A Bunch of Pencils — San Diego, CA — Sorrento Valley Children's Center
A Bunch of Pencils — San Diego, CA — Sorrento Valley Children's Center

Ms. Margo - Room 1

Watching preschoolers blossom as they prepare for kindergarten fills my heart with pride! They're wide-eyed wonder as they learn about the world around them is truly magical! Whether it's identifying shapes, listening to stories, singing songs, or planting seeds in our butterfly garden, their enthusiam fuels my passion for teaching!

Ms. Amy - Room 2

I enjoy working with 3 to 5 year-olds because of their or the passion and excitement for the world around them. I love interacting with the children and providing a loving and safe environment for them to grow and develop at their own pace. We spend all year exploring and creating fun memories together!

A Bunch of Pencils — San Diego, CA — Sorrento Valley Children's Center
A Bunch of Pencils — San Diego, CA — Sorrento Valley Children's Center

Ms. Laura - Room 5

I have a passion for teaching young minds and helping them be their best selves! I grew up knowing I wanted to be a role model for young children. My goal as a teacher is to provide a space where my students can think, question, and create! What I love best about teaching Pre-K is getting them ready to succeed when they leave our program. I believe it's important to prepare today's children to be tomorrow's leaders!

Ms. Jenna - Room 6

I enjoy teaching Transitional Kindergarten children because they are very curious, and excited about learning! During their year with me, they develop skills that help them to be successful Kindergarteners! I look forward to helping your child become a life-long learner!

A Bunch of Pencils — San Diego, CA — Sorrento Valley Children's Center
A Bunch of Pencils — San Diego, CA — Sorrento Valley Children's Center

Ms. Sheri - Floater

I am proud to be S.V.C.C.'s full time floater teacher for the last 10 years! I strive to make each day a fun and positive one for each child, as well as greeting the parents and supporting our amazing team of teachers in all capacities! Whether you see me at the gate, on the playground, or subbing for one of my outstanding co-teachers, I'll always have a smile on my face and a kind word for you and your child! It is a pleasure and a privilege to be a part of such a professional team of educators!

Ms. Jan - Floater

I love being the afternoon floater teacher at S.V.C.C.!! love sharing joy and laughter with the children. Living a day through a child's eyes keeps me young and teaches me kindness. Being silly is the BEST!

A Bunch of Pencils — San Diego, CA — Sorrento Valley Children's Center
A Bunch of Pencils — San Diego, CA — Sorrento Valley Children's Center

MR. ben - Science Lab Teacher

I enjoy teaching young children science because I get to witness the joy and excitement in them when our science projects unfold. In my class, we get to explore everything from a chemical reaction to engineering, which always makes it a learning adventure! As a past student of S.V.C.C., I feel honored now to be teaching in our Science Lab!

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