Samantha Russell , Head Teacher
0-2 yr. old Team Coordinator

Hello, my name is Samantha Jo Russell.  I was born in New Mexico, am Native American from the Navajo Tribe, and have never been on a plane and have yet to see the ocean!

I come from a family of six children….a handful for both of my parents!!!  I have four older sisters and one younger brother who is my best friend and the reason for what I do.  My little brother’s name is Stephen and he was born with Downs Syndrome.  When he started Junior High I was the one who dropped him off everyday to class and became very acquainted with his teacher and school.  It was offered employment there from the Salt Lake City School District.  I started as an assistant teacher for seventh and eighth graders at a junior high in a severe special education class.  I loved it; it was then that I knew what I wanted to become. 

I continued working with the district for four years, but decided that if I wanted to better my career I would need to get familiar with other ages.  So, C Street hired me to teach for them, and since then, I feel like I've been part of the family!  I love being here and working with the Toddlers.

Astrid Martinez , Assistant Teacher

Hi!  My name is Astrid and I am the new teacher aide for the Center!  I love working with kids; my mom was an home provider so I have lots of experience working with them. Children are so much to be around and I love learning from them!

I love to work on color pencil art, oil painting, and sewing.  In the summer time, I love to go hiking and camping with my family and friends.