Meet Our Team

Our educators are passionate professionals. They bring heart, expertise and knowledge from continuous training to every classroom. 

Our Credentials

  • Lead Teachers hold a minimum of an Associate Degree. 

  • All team members are credentialed with a National CDA (Child Development Associate) 

  • Staff participate in pre-service and ongoing in-service training throughout the year.

Our Values

  • Respect for the individual child 

  • Consistent, warm communication with families 

  • Commitment to lifelong learning

Message from the Director

Dear Families, 

It is with warmth and excitement that I welcome you to Circle of Hope School, an extraordinary new early learning community born from the heart and expertise of Lutheran Services Florida. While our school may be new in name, our commitment to children and families draws from over 40 years of rich, hands-on experience delivering impactful Early Head Start and Head Start services right here in Duval County. 

At Circle of Hope, we believe deeply that every child matters, not in spite of their differences, but because of them. In our nurturing environment, each child’s unique qualities are not only celebrated, but they are also essential to the vibrant learning community we are building. We value emotional growth, brain development, early literacy and above all, helping every child feel seen, heard and supported. 

Our approach is comprehensive by design. Drawing from evidence-based curriculum and innovative educational tools, our highly trained team of educators and child development professionals attend to every dimension of your child’s growth, academic, emotional, social and physical. Yet, we also recognize that a child’s experience cannot be separated from the family experience. That is why we intentionally cultivate strong, respectful partnerships with parents and caregivers. When families feel empowered and supported, children thrive even more profoundly. 

In joining Circle of Hope School, you are entrusting us with perhaps the most precious part of your world. Your child. We do not take this responsibility lightly. Together, we will create an environment where your child’s potential is nurtured, and your family’s journey feels honored and guided at every turn. 

Thank you for considering Circle of Hope School. I look forward to walking this journey with you. 

Maria McNair, Circle of Hope School Director