Director
Assistant Director
Lead Teacher
Teacher
Teacher
Teacher’s Aid
Teacher’s Aide
633 Taraval St.
San Francisco, CA 94116
254 Laguna Honda Blvd.
San Francisco, CA 94116
Meaningful Beginnings Daycare Center
Director
Assistant Director
Becoming a teacher was not only part of the plan for Rebecca Wang; it was the unequivocal dream – a dream that involved the passionate, never-ending pursuit of knowledge that would also enable her to impart her years of experience into the budding lives of children. This dream, now fully realized, continues to grow with each passing day as she seizes every new opportunity to help children flourish. Beyond instilling a lifelong love of learning into her students, she relishes the ability to infuse happiness into every stage of their unique learning journeys. Harnessing Meaningful Beginnings as a springboard for learning and creating a community that extends beyond a shared geographical location. She especially appreciates when our learners simply surprise themselves – and their parents and teachers, too – with the levels of learning they have accomplished. For her, that’s the greatest reward there is. A graduate of San Francisco State University, she holds a bachelor’s degree in Child and Adolescent Development specializing in Early Childhood Education and can read and write fluent Mandarin.
Lead Infant Teacher
Born and raised in San Francisco, Sandy has always held a profound love of caring for babies and kids. A daycare worker since 2011, she cherishes every opportunity to see them grow and thrive while also encouraging them to think freely, embrace creativity, and be themselves. Hard-working by nature, she studied child development and CNA at City College of San Francisco. When she isn’t busy taking care of children at Meaningful Beginnings, you can find her out and about with family and friends.
Lead Teacher
For Thereza Cerna, her journey began with a deep-seated love for babysitting during her formative years, which swiftly blossomed into an unwavering dedication to nurturing children on a full-time basis. Now immersed in her role for six years at Meaningful Beginnings, Thereza finds immense joy in her work, particularly in witnessing the sheer delight that lights up children’s faces each morning. Beyond the daily routines, she sees her role as integral to shaping the early development and milestones of her students. Every interaction is an opportunity for Thereza to forge meaningful connections with each child under her care.
Currently enrolled in the early childhood education program at Skyline/Cañada College, Thereza is committed not only to enhancing her professional skills but also to cultivating a profound impact on children’s lives. Her passion extends beyond the classroom; she sees herself on a lifelong mission to help young minds explore and embrace their unique passions and interests.
Outside of her professional pursuits, Thereza treasures moments spent with her family, cherishing quality time together. She also finds relaxation and creativity in crafting, a hobby that allows her to unwind and recharge.
Teacher
Described by others as friendly, silly, and funny, Sadaf Shahid joined the Meaningful Beginnings team a year ago and has since made a lasting impression on her students and colleagues alike. For Sadaf, it’s not just the team she works with, it’s the vibrant environment that the daycare fosters and the smiles on her kids’ faces that make the entire experience so incredibly special and worthwhile. A Muslim immigrant originally from Pakistan and a self-described family person who now calls San Francisco home, she attended San Francisco City College as part of her training and is ecstatic to put all her years of experience to good use and the benefit of a growing group of knowledge-hungry students. Deeply passionate about expanding every child’s horizon, she makes it her daily mission to elevate the learning experience by encouraging endless discovery through interactive exploration.
Teacher’s Aide
Ana knew she wanted to work with kids when she started taking care of her sister’s 3-month-old daughter. This initial desire has since transformed into a rewarding career where she spends most of her time helping kids cultivate concentration, motivation, self-discipline, and a genuine love of learning. Hardworking, reliable, and caring, she makes it her personal responsibility to help instill critical thinking skills, resilience, and respect for others, giving children a strong foundation for learning that will stay with them throughout their lifetime. Embracing the Meaningful Beginnings approach, she cherishes every opportunity to prepare children for life in our ever-changing world and is proud to play a formative role in the lives of children as they learn, grow, and become well-rounded individuals.
Teacher’s Aide
Drawing deep inspiration from the loving guidance of her parents, grandparents, and dedicated teachers throughout her upbringing, Shenna Cabrera views her role as a daycare provider as an invaluable opportunity to impart knowledge and nurture the budding minds of tomorrow. Each day she steps into her workplace, Shenna eagerly anticipates witnessing the unfolding adventures of each child and eagerly listens to their captivating stories. She cherishes those magical moments when the children arrive at the center, their faces beaming with smiles, eagerly giving hugs, and brimming with excitement as they engage with their teachers and friends.
Originally from the Philippines, Shenna now calls California her home. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Nursing from Our Lady of Fatima University before shifting her focus to Early Child Education, currently pursuing further studies at Skyline College. This educational journey reflects her deep commitment to providing the best possible care and educational foundation for young children.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Shenna finds solace and joy in spending quality time with her beloved family and cherished friends. Whether exploring new adventures together or simply enjoying leisurely moments, these connections bring her immense happiness and fulfillment. Shenna Cabrera’s journey as a daycare provider is deeply rooted in her passion for nurturing young minds, supported by a rich educational background and a strong sense of community and family ties.
Infant Teacher
My name is Emily and I am an infant teacher. My aim with this position is to learn how children develop as unique individuals and learn how to support their holistic growth. I am currently a student at San Francisco
State University majoring in Child and Adolescent Development. With this experience, I am hoping to get a sense on whether I want to continue to work in the classroom or if I want to learn the administrative side of education. The experience of working directly with children is gratifying and I wish to create a safe space for children to explore with all of their senses as they develop their own personalities. I hope to be able to help build a strong foundation so that the children can have the confidence and ability to express themselves.