The grown-ups who make the magic

Melissa Mendoza, M.Ed.

Founder & Director

Melissa Mendoza is an early childhood educator, entrepreneur and advocate for innovative learning experiences. With more than 20 years in education, she holds a Master’s Degree in Education with an emphasis in Curriculum and Instruction from Notre Dame de Namur University, where her research focused on second language acquisition in young children, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Liberal Studies from San Francisco State University.

In 2008, Melissa founded Step by Step, Paso a Paso, creating a nurturing, hands-on learning environment where children develop a love of learning through exploration, creativity and meaningful experiences. Her passion reaches beyond our community: she collaborated with the University of Notre Dame on curriculum for the Early Childhood Development Center at Saint Bakhita’s in Kalongo, Uganda, and serves as President of the Saint Bakhita’s Innovation Foundation.

Melissa believes that education has the power to transform lives and communities. Whether she is developing curriculum, creating new learning spaces or supporting schools across the globe, her work is driven by a commitment to helping children thrive.

Darden Marx

Director

Darden Marx holds degrees in Early Childhood Education and English and brings a deep appreciation for child-led learning to Step by Step, Paso a Paso. Her teaching philosophy is inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, which sees children as capable, curious and active participants in their own learning. She believes the most meaningful education happens when children are free to explore, ask questions and engage with the world around them.

For Darden, the farm school is the perfect place for discovery and growth. Surrounded by nature, animals and endless chances for hands-on learning, she encourages children to grow confidence, creativity and a lifelong love of learning. Her goal is for each child to leave the classroom a thoughtful, capable and curious young scholar.

Rubi Nuño

Head Teacher

Rubi Nuño holds a degree in Psychology and brings over 10 years of early childhood education experience to Step by Step, Paso a Paso. She is passionate about creating nurturing environments where children feel safe, supported and inspired to learn, and believes children thrive when they are free to explore, create and discover at their own pace.

Drawing on her education and classroom experience, Rubi thoughtfully supports each child’s social, emotional, artistic and academic journey. She values strong relationships with children and families, and the meaningful experiences that build curiosity, confidence and a lifelong love of learning.

Leah Pulido

Head Teacher

Leah Pulido brings over 28 years of early childhood education experience to Step by Step, Paso a Paso. She holds an Early Childhood Education (ECE) certification and has taught in Montessori, play-based, preparatory and private preschools, as well as transitional kindergarten and afterschool programs, so she draws on many teaching approaches to meet each child’s needs.

Leah loves creating a warm, engaging classroom where children feel valued, supported and encouraged to learn through exploration and meaningful experiences. She believes strong relationships, hands-on learning and a nurturing atmosphere are the foundation for confidence, independence and a lifelong love of learning.