Staff
Meet the dedicated YLA AT SMYRNA staff, committed to fostering a nurturing and supportive learning environment. Our experienced educators and staff provide a high-quality, bilingual preschool experience for every child. Learn more about the team shaping your child’s future.
Project Director
“My mission in life is to make sure every child I have the opportunity of teaching has the best early education possible”
Aquita Johnson
Site Director
Native of the Dominican Republic. Ms. Issa holds an Associates Degree in Child Development. Prior to her current role as Director, she started at YLA as the lead teacher for Pre-K 2 & 3. She is certified with her Director’s credentials and Medical Assistant Certification.
“I believe in creating a beautiful learning environment that allows children to experience freedom and autonomy and have ample opportunity to move their bodies, take risks, and play”
Site Assistant
Native of New York, Ms. Shari has 35 years of experience in Early Child Care Education. She is a licensed foster care parent as well as a Girls Scout Troop leader. She is responsible for the P.A.L city program for underprivileged and at risk children. Ms. Shari has her Medical Assistant Certification.
“I love the joy & magic in this environment. I feel so lucky to be able to go to work with the kiddos each day & join in the wonder of discovery & the joy of play”
Guadalupe Zamora
JR Pre-K Teacher
Native to Smyrna GA, but her family hails from the state of Tamaulipas in Mexico. Ms. Zamora graduated from Kennesaw State University with a Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education. She has over 4 years of experience in the Early Childhood Education field.
“I love working with kids and I believe each child has a mind and creativity of their own that’s why I involve sensory play to help them learn”
Taijhonea Hunter
GA Pre-K Teacher
Native to Louisiana, Ms. Tai has over 9 years of experience in Education. She holds a Doctorate in Education and has experience working with kids up to 8th grade. She is not only a teacher but also a fellow YLA parent.
“I am focused on your child’s education and assure you that I would strive to be the best teacher for your child. I plan to use what I learn about your kids to assist them with any struggles and to build up their strengths”
Khyri Thornton
GA Pre-K assistant
Native to Florida, Mr. Khyri graduated from The University of Southern Mississippi with a Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies. He is a former NFL player and loves to help the kids get active. He has prior experience volunteering in Elementary Schools.
“I like to help children develop the confidence to try new things, take on reasonable challenges, and master new skills”
Alexa Vargas
Pre-K 2 Teacher
Native to Venezuela, she has over 5 years of experience in Early Childcare Education. Ms. Alexa is currently earning her Child Development Associate Portfolio. She was formerly the Toddler lead teacher at YLA. Alexa is also a fellow YLA Parent.
“I love to have the opportunity to foster their independence and give them real life opportunities to learn skills they will use for the rest of their lives”
Yajaira Parra
Infants Teacher
Native to Venezuela, she has over 20 years of experience in Early Childhood Education. She has worked with Toddlers and Pre-K 2 in the past at YLA but her expertise is with infants. Ms. Yajaira holds an Associates in Child Development.
“It makes my heart happy to see babies’ development and experiences in their early stage of life”.
Daysi Blanco
Infants Assistant
Native to Cuba, she has over 14 years of experience in Childhood Education. She has worked with children of all ages throughout the years, but specializes in the care of younger kids. She is currently earning her Child Development Associate Portfolio.
“Caring for the younger babies fills my heart with joy”.