top of page

About  

Ashley S.

With over ten years of experience in child education, my journey began as an early childhood educator, working with children from preschool through elementary school. Before that, I was a nursing student and a golf coach for an afterschool program. Each of these experiences taught me invaluable lessons, and I discovered that my true passion lay in working with children. It was not only enjoyable but also incredibly rewarding. Motivated by this realization, I pursued my dream by enrolling in early childhood education courses to help children build the foundational skills they need to thrive.Growing up in a close-knit family, I spent much of my childhood helping my parents run our family-owned business, Lonnie’s Shishkabob, which had three restaurants in the Bay Area during the ‘90s. This experience not only deepened our family bonds but also gave me a firsthand look at the entrepreneurial journey.With my background in early childhood education and the entrepreneurial spirit I gained from my family, I recognized an opportunity to make a meaningful impact by supporting families. In 2019, we opened Bright Bears Child Care, a play-based daycare where children engage in a curriculum designed to promote early learning through play-based activities.Beyond the fun activities we offer, we also collaborate with therapists to support children with special needs. This approach allows children to enjoy stimulating experiences while parents see positive improvements in their speech and mobility.Over the years, we have cultivated a nurturing environment where parents can feel confident leaving their children in our care. We prioritize building trust and maintaining open communication, keeping parents regularly updated about their child’s progress. As I continue my studies in child development, I am excited about the bright future ahead for Bright Bears Child Care and the families we serve.

​

Meet Miss Kristen Kristen Martin is a San Jose native who attended San Jose State University, where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Theatre Arts with an emphasis in performance. One production that was especially meaningful to her was She Kills Monsters, which became a memorable highlight of her theatrical journey. Kristen loves working with children and finds great joy in watching them grow, learn, and develop. She has completed 18 units in Early Childhood Development and is CPR certified and a mandated reporter. She brings patience, creativity, and an outgoing personality to her work each day. Children can expect a leader who is fair, structured, and supportive, while maintaining clear expectations. A fun fact about Kristen is that she enjoys singing, dancing, and creating miniature art in her free time. Her long-term goal is to continue working with children and making a positive impact in their lives.

bottom of page