Saint Albert's Child Development Center

Our Teachers

Kristin Mareno, Director Kristin graduated from California State University Northridge in 1986 with a BA in Child Development. Kristin began her ECE journey by developing children’s programming on board cruise ships traveling from the Los Angeles port. Kristin enjoyed her love of travel while developing vast children’s programming which is seen on our cruise ships today. Kristin moved to Reno in 1990 and worked in a well-established center for several years. Kristin helped open St. Albert’s Child Development Center in 1997. The CDC is a direct reflection of Kristin’s Meet Kristin Mareno, an inspiring Director of a child development center. Kristin’s passion for Early Childhood Education began when she developed children’s programs on board cruise ships, which are still being used today. With her extensive experience and knowledge, Kristin has helped to shape the lives of countless children and families. She graduated from California State University Northridge in 1986 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Child Development. In 1990, Kristin moved to Reno, where she worked in an established center for several years. In 1997, Kristin helped open St. Albert’s Child Development Center, which directly reflects her dedication to Early Childhood Education. By choosing Kristin’s center, you can be confident that your child will receive the highest quality care and education, guided by Kristin’s expertise and passion.

Debbie Hamon: Asst. Director My name is Debbie Hamon and I have been a part of the St. Albert’s family since 2000. I started here running the summer camp program then came over to the CDC to work in the Bumblebee room. I spent 5 years teaching the Bumblebees, and running summer camp in the summers. In 2005 I became the Assistant Director of the CDC. I am married with 5 children, 2 of which attended the CDC. I have 2 grandchildren that also attended the CDC. I have been in the child development field since 1982. My goal is to go back to school to complete my degree. I love my career, and I love coming to work everyday.

Jennifer Peapealalo: Program Facilitator My name is Jen Peapealalo. I started working at the CDC in 1999. When I graduated in 2000 I moved to Snohomish, Washington with my family for 3 years, where I earned my Associates Degree in Early Childhood. When I returned to Reno I came back to the CDC. Then in 2014 I accepted a position working for Washoe County School District as an assistant in a Kindergarten classroom, but continued to work per diem at the CDC. In January 2017 I decided to come back to the CDC full time as an Program Facilitator. I have 2 daughters, Abigail and Ava, that both attended the CDC from the time they were 6 weeks old. I love working with children. I am currently working on my Bachelors degree in Early Childhood. In my free time, I enjoy reading, scrapbooking and spending time with my daughters and fiancé. We love to go camping, play games, and watch football!

Miss Shari: Infant Classroom Hi everyone! My name is Shari McCrillis. I joined the St. Albert’s family in September 2005. My passion and calling is with the babies in the baby room, but I enjoy being in all the rooms with all the kids. I am originally from Centerville, Ohio. My family (my hubby and 3 kids) moved here in 1996. We love it here. Reno is our home!!

Miss Yuri: Infant Classroom

Miss Kelley: Pony Classroom I am Kelley Dinkins and I started working at St. Albert’s CDC in May of 2010 after I received my degree in Elementary and Special Education from the University of Nevada Reno. I had planned to teach in the school district but I enjoyed the CDC so much I didn’t want to leave. I was born and raised in Nevada and I live in the neighborhood with my husband and two daughters. Prior to working at St. Albert’s I was a substitute for Washoe County School District for nine years and a Girl Scout leader. I now care for the children of some of my former scouts. I enjoy sewing, knitting and reading.

Miss Natalia: Pony Classroom :

Miss Zara: Teddy Bear Classroom Hello, I am Zara. I have been working at St. Albert’s Child Development Center since 2010. I came from the Philippines and I have been in the USA for 34 years. I have one son and he is my pride and joy! I enjoy being with children from babies to young adults. I love my job and look forward to coming here everyday. The CDC is a great place to work and they are all like family to me.

Miss Silvia, Teddy Bear Classroom My name is Silvia. I have been married for 27 years and have 3 sons. I have been working at St. Albert’s CDC since 2011.

Miss Martha: Teddy Bear Classroom My name is Martha Gularte. I am the oldest of five children. I was raised Catholic and am active in St. Albert’s Parish Life. I have two sons and five grandchildren. I have lived in Nevada since 1986. I worked in food and beverage for 58 years. I worked at the Hilton, Peppermill, and Marriott. My hobbies include crafts, drawing, reading, gardening, fixing things, and dancing. I have been in childcare for the last five years and find it the most rewarding of any of the jobs I have done. My grandchildren are the most important part of my life. Side jobs I have had over the years. Hand Dipped Candle Maker, Silk Screen Press Operator, Motel Maid, Home Repairman, and Bartender at a Biker Bar.

Miss Amanda: Teddy Bear Classroom

Miss Michele: Kangaroo Classroom

Miss Janine: Kangaroo Classroom - Hi, my name is Janine. I earned my college degree and worked in Journalism for many years, but have always loved the education field and caring for children. I have been so blessed to teach children since 2008, and began caring for young children at St. Alberts Child Development Center starting in 2021. I enjoy the arts, music, nature, reading, and having fun with my husband and daughter. It is my honor and privilege to care for your greatest gift, your amazing children!

Miss Patti: Bumblebee Classroom In the beginning, I was in the classroom working with communicatively handicapped children and connecting and supporting their families. My first invitation to the ministry to share our faith was that of a catechist, teaching and supporting children and their families in their faith. My second invitation to my ministry was that of the Director of Education in Truckee, Incline Village, and Sparks. I should have read the fine print: you will fall in love with these children and their families, support them…did from 2000 to 2020. Four +/- years ago, there was a two-page invitation, my third; in actuality, it was probably only about four by five inches (it seemed a lot larger and louder invitation); that invitation was to play the part of Mary Poppins at St. Albert’s Child Development Center; and again I should have read the fine print…you will fall in love with these children and their families, support them…I pray I do. I am blessed to be a mother of three and Nana of five bright, beautiful, and sometimes spicy granddaughters. I am Ms. Patti.

Miss Sienna: Bumblebee Classroom My name is Sienna Most and I graduated college in 2022 with a Bachelor’s degree in Public Health. However, I fell in love with childcare and would love to eventually go back to school and earn my degree. I have no children of my own but I do have two dogs. I am excited to get to know the children and their families. Thank you for entrusting them to me.

Miss Beth: Bumblebee Classroom

Philosophy

In our center, we strive to create a safe, caring family-friendly environment. We believe children learn best through hands-on experiences. We provide opportunities for self-discovery which allow children to gain a deeper understanding of their world. If it’s not in the hand it’s not in the brain! We believe that when children are truly engaged with their environment, magic happens. Our team of experienced and innovative teachers do this by creating a space driven by the interests and ideas of the children who inhabit it.

Location

Our program is located on the corner of the St. Albert Campus. We are located in a quiet well established Northwest Reno Neighborhood. The CDC is just steps away from our companion school St. Albert the Great Elementary / Jr. High School. There is a circular driveway directly in front of our center for easy drop-off and pick-up.

About our program

At St. Albert’s Child Development Center in Reno, children receive personalized care from dedicated educators in a supportive setting. Our hands-on approach sets us apart, providing unique experiential learning opportunities. Specializing in nurturing early childhood growth, we offer top-quality education.

Admissions

We work off a waiting list. Please email us at [email protected] and we will email you the wait list application along with instructions on how to complete wait list process.