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Build A Career That Shapes
Young Lives
Join A Community-Trusted Center Where Your Passion Makes A Difference
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Preschool & Childcare Center Serving Federal Way, WA

Click Here To See Open Positions

Meet Our Team

At Smart Start, our team is made up of experienced childcare and early learning professionals serving families in the Federal Way community. Many of our educators and leaders have chosen to build long-term careers with our centersome for decades – and even our newest team members bring multiple years of experience. This exceptional longevity and consistency result in very low staff turnover and create a stable, nurturing environment where children and families feel safe, supported, and truly known.
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Karen H.

Director

Bio
Karen has led Smart Start for over 36 years and brings extensive experience in early childhood education. She holds a CDA credential and ECE certification and is committed to creating a warm, supportive environment where children and families fee valued and supported.
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Jeff C.

Operations Director

Bio

Jeff has supported Smart Start in leadership and operational roles since 2001 and currently serves as the Operations Director. He oversees facilities, compliance, and day-to-day operations to ensure the center runs smoothly and safely. Jeff is a hands-on problem solver and a steady presence behind the scenes.

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Sarah C.

Admin Director

Bio
Sarah C. serves as the Administrative Director and has supported the center for over 20 years. She brings 19 years of experience as an educator, holds a Master’s degree in Teaching from Seattle University, and is a National Board Certified Teacher. Sarah supports administrative systems, communication, and family engagement.
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Tammy M.

PM Supervisor, School Age Teacher

Bio
Tammy C. brings over 30 years of experience in childcare and youth development, including 18 years at Smart Start. She is CPR and First Aid certified, holds ECE credits, and has completed STARS training. Tammy is known for balancing warmth with clear expectations tations while treating every child with respect and care.
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Mikaela C.

Preschool

Bio
Mikaela C. has been part of the Smart Start team for over 7 years and works in the preschool classroom. She is CPR and First Aid certified, has completed STARS training, and holds EQEL Level 1 and 2 certifications. Mikaela enjoys creating art projects with her students and supporting their learning and growth each day.
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Martha M.

Preschool

Bio
Martha M. has been part of the Smart Start team for over 2 years and works in the preschool classroom. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed STARS training. Martha is known for being patient, creative, for and deeply caring about children’s well-being.
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Jade M.

Toddler Room

Bio
Jade M. has been a dedicated member of the Smart Start team tor over 10 years and brings a caring, organized, and energetic presence to the toddler classroom. She holds EQEL Level 1 and 2 certifications and is known for being dependable, fun, and attentive to children’s needs. She is also bilingual, speaking both English and Palauan.
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Ivallany K.

Infants/Toddlers

Bio
Ivallany K. has been part of the Smart Start team for 3 years and brings over 5 years of experience in childcare. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed STARS training. Ivallany is bilingual in English and Palauan and is dedicated to providing a nurturing, supportive environment for young children.
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Laura R.

Infants/Toddlers

Bio
Laura R. has been part of the Smart Start team for over 14 years and brings warmth, patience, and experience to the infant and toddler room. She is CPR and First Aid certified, trained in Safe Sleep, and supports children’s growth in a nurturing, caring environment.
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Pursue A Career You’re Truly Passionate About

Every day, you have the opportunity to nurture curiosity, build confidence, and guide meaningful early experiences. Here, your creativity, compassion, and professionalism are valued as you help children build foundations for lifelong learning.

Learn From A Director With Over Three Decades Of Experience

Director Karen Howard has led Smart Start for more than 35 years, bringing deep knowledge of early childhood education and a steady, supportive presence. With experienced leadership guiding the way, you’ll receive mentorship, encouragement, and practical insight that helps you grow in your career.

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Be Part Of A Supportive Team That Has Your Back

We believe strong relationships aren’t just for children — they’re for teachers, too. Our team works collaboratively, communicates openly, and supports one another through the busy, joyful moments of each day. You’ll never feel like you’re doing this important work alone.

Partner With Families Who Value What You Do

At Smart Start, we’ve built lasting relationships with families who respect and appreciate the role educators play in their children’s lives. Open communication and mutual trust create a positive, professional environment where your work is recognized and valued.

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Make A Meaningful Impact In Your Community

As one of Federal Way’s longest-trusted childcare centers, we are proud to be a cornerstone for local families. When you join our team, you become part of a legacy of care, helping shape not only young learners but the future of our community.

Take The Next Step In A Career Where Your Heart, Talent, & Dedication Truly Matter

Open Positions

Are you a passionate educator looking to make a lasting, positive impact on the lives of young students? We’re looking for teachers to join our team of long-serving, dedicated professionals who spend their days sparking learning and creating joy! 

If you’re ready to move into a career that makes a difference, and you:

  • Consider yourself a natural, empathetic leader
  • Have work experience and an educational background in ECE
  • Are a strong verbal and written communicator who is somewhat tech-savvy
  • Can physically complete the tasks necessary to care for small children and
  • Agree with and can deliver on our mission to provide exceptional care and learning 

then please apply today! We can’t wait to meet you. 

Are you a compassionate, motivated person who adores children and wants to break into the field of early childhood education? We’re looking for people like you who want to begin or advance a career providing classroom support to teachers and brightening the lives of the littlest learners.

If you’re ready to move into a career that makes a difference, and you:

  • Are friendly, dependable, and willing to work as an integral part of a classroom team
  • Desire ECE work experience and professional development opportunities
  • Can communicate respectfully with students, colleagues, parents, and administrators
  • Are physically able to complete the tasks necessary to care for small children and 
  • Agree with and can deliver on our mission to provide exceptional care and learning 

then please apply today! We can’t wait to meet you. 

Are you an adaptable, compassionate person who loves working with young children? Do you have a flexible schedule and a positive can-do attitude? We’re looking for caring people like you to be Floaters on our dedicated team of early childhood educators!

If you’re ready to move into a position that brings something new every day, and you:

  • Are dependable, motivated, and willing to work in a variety of classroom settings
  • Have or desire work experience in early childhood education
  • Are a team player with excellent communication and comprehension skills
  • Are physically able to complete the tasks necessary to care for small children and
  •  Agree with and can deliver on our mission to provide exceptional care and learning

then please apply today! We can’t wait to meet you.

Apply Now

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