Staff

Tara Gray
School Director

Hello, my name is Tara Gray, and I am the Director at Cornerstone Children’s Center. I have over 27 years of experience in the field of Early Childhood Education as a teacher, lead teacher, program coordinator, and program director. I have a BA in Human Development with an option in Early Childhood, an AA in Liberal Arts, and hold an Early Childhood Directors Permit with the California Teacher Credentialing Department. I was also recognized in 2013 as a Mentor Teacher for the California Early Childhood Mentor Program. In 2023, I start a new adventure as a lifelong learner and begin my Master’s in Education program for Early Childhood Development. As a newly chosen Mentor Director for the State California Early Childhood Mentor Program, I also work with new leadership members of the Early Childhood Education field.

I believe that children learn best through open exploration of their environment and fun, hands-on activities. A strong home-school connection is a foundation for fostering a positive relationship with all families. Providing a nurturing and supportive environment in both enables children to reach for the stars, and their development has no end! In working with young children, I love being able to experience the joys of childhood all over by seeing things through their eyes.

Fey Saeteurn
Assistant School Director

With over 24 years of experience in Early Childhood Education, I have held various roles at Cornerstone Children’s Center, including lead teacher, program coordinator, and now Assistant Director. Each position has allowed me to cultivate a deep understanding of child development and the nuances of fostering a nurturing educational environment. My commitment to quality education is reflected in my professional growth and in the relationships I’ve built with students, families, and staff.

My educational background features an Associate of Science Degree in Early Childhood Development, complemented by a Master Teacher Credential and completion of Site Director courses. I am a proud alumnus of Contra Costa College, where I actively contribute as a volunteer mentor to the ECHD program. Supporting Early Childhood students is a role I cherish deeply, as it allows me to give back to the community that shaped my own educational journey and guide the next generation of educators.

I believe that every child can reach their fullest potential in learning. When parents and teachers collaborate, we create a thriving environment that nurtures curiosity, creativity, and a love for learning. I strive to foster this partnership at Cornerstone, ensuring that each child feels valued and inspired to grow, explore, and succeed.

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Teachers

Along with having a passion for children and years of experience working in this field, all our teachers have completed coursework in Early Childhood Development. This coursework consists of classes in in the general areas of Child Growth & Development, Child/ Family and Community, and Program & Curriculum. Our Nursery teachers are also required to complete coursework in Infant & Toddler Development. All Cornerstone Teachers meet the  requirements mandated by Community Care licensing for working in the field of Early Childhood Education.

To ensure that our teachers are always ready and able to provide the best possible care to the children at our center, we require that they maintain certification in First Aid/CPR and offer both on-site and off-site opportunities for professional growth through workshops and training conferences.