-Jeremiah 29:11

229-924-5419

tiffany@fumcamericus.com

My name is Tiffany Turner. I am ecstatic to be interacting with each and every child as your assistant director. I am from our small town, Americus and I have 2 wonderful little girls. I look forward to meeting all the sweet little faces.

My name is Laurie Barker, and I am from Montezuma, GA. I have been married for 26 years, and I have two sons, ages 24 and 15. My faith, family, and job are the three most important things in my life. I truly love and enjoy working with children; it has always been my passion and it is close to my heart.

My name is Pamela Dowdell. I've lived in Americus my entire life. I have two children. I have over 30 years of experience working with children.

I earned a diploma in early childhood education in June 2008. I worked at First United Methodist Church for over 25 years in the nursery and preschool. I left for a brief moment, but now I've returned.

I'm looking forward to working with you and your child!

My name is Valerie Skipper, and I am 27 years old. I am so excited to teach your child this year!

I'm from Americus, GA. My favorite color is blue, I love the smell of vanilla, and Christmas is my favorite time of year!

I graduated from Americus-Sumter Co. High in 2012, and I've taken some education courses at Georgia Southwestern. I've been babysitting since I was 10 years old, and I'm on nursery staff at Central Baptist. This is my second year working at Bright Beginnings. I'm looking forward to starting a new year with you and your child!

Hi! My name is Holli Brunson, and I am so excited to have your child this year for 2K. I was born and raised here in Americus, GA. I have three amazing kids, Emily Rose, Wyatt, and Samuel. A motto I live by is "You're allowed to scream, You're allowed to cry, but you are NEVER allowed to give up."

I graduated from Americus-Sumter High School in 2006. I went on to study at Darton College and South Georgia Technical College. I have studies in the medical field and early childhood education. I received my technical certificate in early childhood care and education.

I have been blessed to be with Bright Beginnings since 2012. I began as a one-year-old teacher, but I found my "spot" with twos a year later.

My name is Carmen Henderson. I am from Blakely, GA. I graduated from Early County High School in 2019. During my 11th and 12th grade years, I worked with Pre-K. I currently attend Georgia Southwestern as a student in elementary education. I am a sophomore this year, and I love it. 

I specialize in work with infants, and I enjoy creating crafts for the classroom, and for the parents to take home.

"Don't struggle to be a better teacher than everybody else. Simply be a better teacher than you ever thought you could be"

-Robert John Meehan

My name is Amanda Goodin. I have lived in Americus, GA my whole life. My days are typically spent hanging out with my 2 year old niece and reading a book.

I graduated from Schley County High School. I am currently working towards getting my Bachelor's degree in Sociology at GSW. I spent a year volunteering at a church nursery that consisted of children 6 months-3 years of age.

"Do not fear. for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your god."

Isaiah 4:10

After teaching school for 33 years, I retired in 2020. I graduated from Texas Tech University and acquired my masters and specialist degrees from Georgia Southwestern College. I worked with students age PK-9th grade. I am very much looking forward to spending time again with this age group. As a member of FUMC, I had the pleasure of working with the 2 & 3 year old Sunday school class for over 10 years.

My husband Eddie and I have two daughters, Rylee and Baylee, and we enjoy all things outdoors. I'm looking forward to this next chapter at Bright Beginnings.

"Do not let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do."

-John Wooden

I am new to this career path, but I love kids! I are up in Americus, GA with my husband and my son. I graduated from SGTC with a degree in criminal justice. I have been a stay-at-home mom since my son was born in 2019, and I have been honored to be part of the family here at Bright Beginnings. I cannot way to see where this path takes me.

I have always been a nurturer and felt the need to help people. In my free time, I love to be with my family, playing in the yard, movie days, fishing, and family dinners.

"You are...BRAVER than you believe, STRONGER than you seem, SMARTER than you think."

-Winnie the Pooh

Hello! My name is Jade Sellars, soon to be Sims! I am from Americus, Georgia! I love spending time with my family on the weekends. 

I graduated from Schley county high school in 2021, and currently am going to GSW to pursue a degree in early childhood education! I have been baby sitting since I was 15, from newborns to 10 year olds. I have baby cousins, and toddler twin siblings who I baby sit the most. I love all things children with my whole heart! My favorite Bible verse is Philippians 4:13 “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” 

Hello! My name is Melanie Wooden and I am 18 years old. I live in Andersonville, Georgia. Some of my favorite interests include tennis, volleyball, church, and being around my family.

I graduated from Sumter County high school. I took early childhood education for 3 years, and in 9th grade, I was able to help out in a kindergarten class. I learned a credential in early childhood education and Care-Basic. I will be attending Georgia Southwestern to major in education.

My name is Haley Underwood, and I am originally from Americus, GA. I am 26 years old and I have three children. I am a mom of twins and I love every minute of it! I have several nieces and nephews that I have helped raise as well. I love spending time with my kids and husband.

I have lots of experience in babysitting for many years. I also have previous experience working in retirement facilities as a caregiver and assistant activities coordinator. I am very excited to start this journey with Bright Beginnings!

"We love because He first loved us."

1 John 4:19

My name is Gloria Fountain and I am from Ellaville, Ga. I moved to Florida for two years, and graduated from high school there in Chipley. I currently go to South Georgia Tech where I am studying for Early Childhood Education. I enjoy working with kids and I have babysitting experience. I have six siblings, and out of all of them I am the youngest. I enjoy going freshwater fishing and going to church! I am excited to be at Bright Beginnings! 

“Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”

Matthew 6:34

Hi, my name is Madelyn English, and I am from Ellaville, GA. I live at home with my parents, little brother, and my dog daughter Daisy. I graduated from Schley County high School in 2022. I am currently enrolled at GSW in early childhood education. I grew up taking care of kids in my church nursery and babysitting. I was part of my high school's teaching apprenticeship. I am looking forward to getting to know all the children at Bright Beginnings!

"You're off to great places! Today is your Day! Your mountain is waiting."

-Dr. Seuss

My name is Curtianna Johnson. My family and I grew up in Ellaville, GA. Things that interest me are watching the sunset, painting, babysitting, and mostly doing things that are therapeutic.

I attended Schley County Middle hight School. During my time there I was in senior beta where I earned a certificate in ServSafe. I graduated in 2021. I'm now attending GSW in pursuit of a bachelor's degree in accounting.

A Bible verse that inspires me is James 3:13, "Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom."

My name is Katelynn Donley, and I am from Americus, GA. My family is my everything, and they are the sweetest people you could ever meet. Some of my interests are watching football games, being outside with my animals, and taking pictures. I graduated from Americus-Sumter High in 2021. I participated in FFA, Skills USA, and chorus. I took early childhood classes, and gained experience working with pre-k students. I enjoyed my time working with the children!

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

Isaiah 41:10

My name is Bailee McGuffin. I am currently a junior at Georgia Southwestern State University. I am pursuing a degree in elementary education with a minor in psychology. I am from Pensacola, FL, and I have two younger brothers. We all love going to the beach to enjoy the water and sun.

I worked as a babysitter for many years, so I am excited to take my childcare experience to the next level.

"You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself in any direction you choose."

Dr. Seuss