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STAFF
MEET OUR TEAM
At Hungry Caterpillars Early Education Center, our teachers do more than educate—they inspire, nurture, and build deep connections that help every child thrive. With warmth, passion, and expertise, they create a place where children feel safe, celebrated, and excited to learn.
Each member of our team brings:
✔️ Extensive experience in early childhood education
✔️ A passion for nurturing young minds
✔️ A deep commitment to building strong, meaningful connections with every child
We believe that learning happens best when children feel safe, celebrated, and encouraged to explore. That’s why our teachers create an environment where curiosity flourishes, creativity is embraced, and every child feels at home.
DIRECTOR
Mia Acuna
Mia Acuna, a Bay Area native, brings over a decade of experience in education to her role as Director of The Hungry Caterpillars. She began her career as a preschool teacher while studying Early Childhood Development in Washington State. This foundation gave her a deep respect for educators and a strong understanding of child development.
Mentors and internships over the years have given Mia invaluable guidance, opening her eyes to the possibilities of the Montessori and Reggio Emilia approaches, as well as the importance of early intervention. As a former Montessori student herself, she brings a deep, firsthand understanding of the philosophy from a student’s perspective.
Mia's journey led her to administration, where she discovered her niche in coaching staff and working closely with families. She has worked with children from infancy through preschool in various programs, ranging from Montessori to the Reggio Emilia approach, as well as other traditional settings. Mia has developed an eye for curating academic spaces that leave room for wonderment and create a platform for students to follow their own interests.
She firmly believes that the environment serves as a "third teacher." She is elated to be able to continue consulting and curating spaces here in the city that encourage children to engage with concepts like provocation, self-directed learning, and the lessons of care and respect for all that surrounds us.
Mia is looking forward to starting a new chapter with The Hungry Caterpillar team and community!
HEAD TEACHER
Lesly Monzón
Lesly is originally from La Antigua Guatemala and moved to San Francisco in 2017. A mother of three, she understands firsthand the joys and challenges of parenting. Lesly trained in early childhood development at Theoria Technical College and has over three years of experience as a Spanish immersion preschool teacher, working at Lenguaje in Action and Holakids.
Believing that children learn best through play in a safe and motivating environment, Lesly is committed to nurturing both their social and cognitive development. She strives to support their growth by encouraging empathy, sharing, and problem-solving.
In her free time, Lesly enjoys exploring the outdoors with her family and is thrilled to be a part of the Hungry Caterpillars team and community!
TEACHER AIDE
Yanissy Damian
Born and raised in San Francisco, Yanissy Damian has been working in child care for five years, gaining experience with children of all ages throughout the city. Her calm demeanor, patience, and deep understanding of child development allow her to create a secure and enjoyable learning environment where children feel supported and encouraged to explore.
Currently pursuing an Associate’s Degree in Child Development at City College, Yani is committed to learning new strategies and techniques that enhance each child’s experience.
Yani is excited to build meaningful connections with your little ones and be part of the Hungry Caterpillars family!