Mariposa

My name is Candi Saphore and I am the center Director here at Mariposa.  Let me tell you a bit about myself.  I am married to my Best friend, 18 crazy years together.  We have two amazing little people, Caleb (13) and Charlotte (9).  I am local here in Riverview, but my hometown is Pennsylvania.  

At a very young age I knew I was highly interested in the education of children. I began in my church’s youth ministry, soon after, I enrolled in college and earned my Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood and Elementary (primary) Education. I have been in the field ever since, it’s been almost 20 years. During those years I have had the chance to work with a wide variety of children ages 1-17. I have also had my own center, working with many children on the Spectrum. 

September 2016 I earned my MA in Curriculum from Grand Canyon University. Soon after we moved here to Beautiful Florida for my husband’s job, He is a Master Electrician.  
My philosophy has grown out of my experience as an educator, and as a child care provider.  Children are little humans and deserve as much as we can hand them. They have a whole world to navigate. I am actively involved in guiding, stimulating, and encouraging growth in young children, even down to the absolute basics.  

Through-out the years I have learned that Child Care needs to go beyond learning. Before a child can learn they must feel comfortable in a safe and healthy environment. When the child feels safe and healthy it positively fosters children’s social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development. I feel that a positive environment is needed in order for children to fully understand love, encouragement, and respect. Although it is important to teach them curriculum; we owe it to the children to understand them as an individual, the whole child.  

Currently I hold a BS and an MA in education, accompanied by a Director credential with a VPK endorsement. I am also a member of Naeyc, and a GCU facilitator for student teachers.  In the few years to come I will also hold a PHD in Educational leadership. I look forward to meeting each family here at AEA, and building relationships that foster our mission!!