Meet our Team 

Founder and Executive Director – Dr. Larissa Silfa-Velez
With over 20 years of experience in Early Childhood and Special Education, Dr. Silfa-Velez is a dedicated educator and researcher specializing in inclusive practices. Her work is rooted in a strong commitment to early intervention and play-based learning, supporting young children's growth across academic, social, communication, and behavioral domains.

Driven by a passion to empower educators, Dr. Silfa-Velez is deeply invested in high-quality professional development that equips teachers with the tools and strategies they need to create inclusive, nurturing learning environments.

She leads several impactful initiatives, including the Little Learners Lab, Start Smart Academy, and the Educational Consulting Program, all aimed at promoting equity and excellence in early education.

Educational Specialist - Ms. Annixa

With over a decade of experience in Early Childhood Education, Ms. Annixa brings specialized expertise in working with infants and toddlers. She holds a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential in infant and toddler care and is dedicated to supporting early developmental milestones with intention and care.

Ms. Annixa is passionate about creating nurturing, play-based environments where young children feel safe to explore, grow, and thrive. She plays a vital role in the Little Learners Lab, providing individualized support to our youngest learners during their most critical stages of development.

Office Manager - Ms. Kristie

As our Office Manager, Ms. Kristie is your first point of contact and your guide throughout the process. She provides detailed information about our services, walks you through the enrollment steps for the Little Learners Lab or Start Smart Academy, and helps you schedule your free educational consultation.

Whether you're exploring support options or ready to enroll, Ms. Kristie ensures a smooth and personalized experience—answering your questions, addressing your concerns, and making sure you feel confident every step of the way.