Providing Childcare with a Passion

We’re pleased to introduce Alexis Hughes, Site Supervisor at South Lake Tahoe Catalyst Kids! This week, we learned about Alexis’ passions and what it looks like to be a Site Supervisor amid a pandemic in a scenic city that is a major tourist attraction.

How long have you been with Catalyst? Have you had any other roles/titles with us?   

I have been with Catalyst since April 2018. I started off with the agency when it was formally known as Child Development Centers Inc as an Assistant Site Supervisor at the South Lake Tahoe center. 

Tell me about your career and educational background. What roles were you in prior to coming to Catalyst?   

I’ve had experience working with children and families since 2008. I started my career working as a teacher’s aide and fell in love with teaching. Began the career path into teaching by starting off as Associate Teacher, moving into Lead Teacher/Mentor, and later, After-school Program Coordinator. I obtained my Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Sacramento State along with my Site Supervisor Permit. I strive to provide children and families the support and knowledge that they need to support overall development and reach developmental milestones. 

Is there a particular experience/memorable moment that stands out to you in your time here at Catalyst?    

I have a lot of great memories here at Catalyst. My most memorable moment would be from last winter. I was outside with our school-agers and we were having a snowman battle.

The children had made over 70 small snowmen all over the playground by working in teams. It was awesome to see and I loved seeing how the children all worked together.

At the end, it didn’t even feel like a competition.  

What do you enjoy most about being a Site Supervisor or working here at Catalyst?   

 I enjoy being able to support others in being able to reach their potential. I love seeing my staff thrive and grow in their careers. I enjoy being able to make a positive impact in the community by providing childcare needs for the community members.

Being a Site Supervisor is a fulfillment that I have always dreamed of because it is my passion to work with children and their families. As a Site Supervisor, I get to create change in a positive way, and I enjoy being able to create an environment where my staff and the children can flourish, come together, and build relationships.  

What does a typical day look like in the role as a Site Supervisor?  

If I could describe it in one word, it would be “busy”.  Having a 7-day center has its challenges, but I wouldn’t trade it. I enjoy starting my day by checking in with all of my staff and stopping by to say hi to all the kiddos. I love being involved in the classrooms and providing support to the teachers. You will often find me engaging the children in play. I try to find a good balance between completing admin items and being in the classrooms when needed.  

Tell me something that you think makes our organization unique.   

I love how diverse the company is. We serve so many families and it feels so good to be a part of a company that strives for quality in childcare. Our company might have a lot of departments and centers, but we all have the same goal.