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Stephanie Raleigh

Owner / Director

Stephanie Raleigh, M.A. is a Child Development Specialist who has worked with children for the past 15 years. She obtained a Master’s Degree in Educational Psychology with an emphasis on Early Childhood Education from California State University, Northridge. In addition, she earned her Bachelor ‘s Degree in Child and Adolescent Development Summa Cum Laude – also from California State University, Northridge. After a fulfilling career in publishing in Germany, Stephanie moved to Cape Town, South Africa where she became involved in a charitable organization helping families and children – setting up preschools and daycare centers for abandoned children and helping women establishing an income source through arts and crafts. This ignited a passion for young children and their families and led to the opening of her own preschool in Los Angeles, CA in 2012. Since then, Stephanie continuously strives to improve the field of Early Childhood Education and has become an advocate for young children. Stephanie and her husband moved to Tennessee in December of last year to be closer to their family. Now she is opening a preschool in beautiful Spring Hill. Stephanie is an outdoor enthusiast and dog lover, spending most of her weekends hiking, cycling, rock climbing or fly fishing.

Stephanie Raleigh

Owner / Director

Stephanie Raleigh, M.A. is a Child Development Specialist who has worked with children for the past two decades.  She obtained a Master’s Degree in Educational Psychology with an emphasis on Early Childhood Education from California State University, Northridge.  In addition, she earned her Bachelor ‘s Degree in Child and Adolescent Development Summa Cum Laude – also from California State University, Northridge.  After a fulfilling career in publishing in Germany, Stephanie moved to Cape Town, South Africa where she became involved in a charitable organization helping families and children – setting up preschools and daycare centers for abandoned children and helping women establishing an income source through arts and crafts. This ignited a passion for young children and their families and led to the opening of her own preschool in Los Angeles, CA in 2012.  Since then, Stephanie continuously strives to improve the field of Early Childhood Education and has become an advocate for young children.  Stephanie and her husband moved to Tennessee in 2020 to be closer to their family.  In 2021, she opened lilac – little learning academy in beautiful Spring Hill.  Stephanie is an outdoor enthusiast and dog lover, spending most of her weekends hiking, cycling, and rock climbing.

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Ms. Isis

Assistant Director

Ms. Isis

My name is Ms. Isis, and I was born and raised in Honduras, Central America. I have been teaching young children for over 16 years, first in my hometown in Honduras, and later in Dallas, Texas.  I have worked with children of all ages, but my favorite level is preschool children, due to their endless curiosity and pure excitement about learning. Their brains are incredibly flexible and open to absorb languages and new information so quickly. Teaching and caring for children is my true passion.  I am very excited to be on this beautiful journey with lilac – little learning academy, and to have the opportunity to teach the language I grew up with to children and families here in Spring Hill, TN.
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Ms. Mariana

Spanish Teacher

Ms. Mariana

My name is Ms. Mariana. I am happy to be your teacher at this stage of your life and to accompany you as you grow safe, happy, and confident. To tell you a little about myself, I was born in Colombia, my native language is Spanish, and I have been in Spring Hill for six years. I love this diminutive, quiet place. I am currently a nursing student, and my goal is to be a pediatrician because of my love for children; for this reason, my job allows me to be close to them, which is the best learning experience. I hope to share many adventures with you, get to know you, and have the best time.
Suzy Rico

Ms. Suzy

Spanish Teacher

Ms. Suzy

Ms. Suzy was born in Colombia and has lived in the United States for the past 27 years. She is a dedicated mother of four and brings both personal strength and professional passion into her work with children. Suzy studied Education and has extensive experience working in special education, kindergarten, and preschool settings. Her background has given her a deep understanding of children’s individual needs, learning styles, and developmental milestones. She is especially known for her patience, nurturing approach, and commitment to creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment. Suzy is passionate about helping children feel safe, confident, and excited to learn, and she values strong relationships with both children and families.
Thanuja

Ms. Thanuja

Teacher

Ms. Thanuja

My name is Ms. Thanuja. I am so excited to guide your children through this beautiful season of preschool. My goal every day is to make sure each little one feels joyful, deeply loved, and ready to grow. I am originally from India, where I earned my Master’s degree. I used to work in the technology field, but my heart led me to early education because I have a special love for little kids and adore seeing the pure wonder and excitement on their faces when they learn. I live right here in our beautiful Spring Hill community with my husband, our two wonderful children, and our sweet dog, Leo. When I am not in the classroom, I love spending time with my family or working in my garden. I cannot wait to get to know all of our amazing families and share a wonderful year of growing together!
Laura

Ms. Laura

Teacher

Ms. Laura

Ms. Laura is an early childhood education certified teacher from Southern California who has worked in childcare and early childhood education for the past fifteen years. Laura has worked with children of all ages and thoroughly enjoys working with preschool age children as they find wonder, curiosity, and learning in everything they experience. Ms. Laura is excited to be working with the children and families of lilac - little learning academy and share in the journey of learning!