Now Open in Riverview - Brandon

Mariposa

Amazing Explorers Academy at Mariposa, FL fosters a nurturing environment where little minds open up to develop lifelong learning skills designed to inspire, connect and engage the great minds of the 21st century.

Are you open for adventure?

Amazing Explorers Mariposa
Address: 10308 Cardera Drive, Riverview, FL 33578

Phone: (813) 896-0002

Age: 6 weeks – 12 yrs old

Open: Enrolling Now

Contact us to learn more about Amazing Explorers Academy Mariposa

The Amazing Director

Ms. Candi Saphore

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!!

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As an educator, AEA has become my second home. It is a lovely place to work. The curriculum, the facility, the resources, and the administration are the best. They are always willing to help and support our Team. I feel so blessed to be able to inspire children and teach them with all my heart and a big smile  
-Ana Gomez (Teacher Assistant)