Founder & Director
Ronald Mitchell
Founder and Director focused on the daily operations and compliance of the center, ensuring every child learns, discovers, and thrives in a safe, enriching environment while supporting the needs of every family.
Our people
Meet the People Behind Discovering Minds
Our dedicated team of educators and caregivers works together to create a safe, nurturing, and enriching environment where every child can learn, grow, and discover their potential.
Co-Founder & Assistant Director
Mercedes Appling
Assistant Director who assists with daily operations, staff, and families while helping create a positive and nurturing environment for every child.
Administrator
Briana Newton
Oversees administrative operations, family communication, records, and compliance while helping ensure the center runs smoothly and efficiently each day.
Assistant Director & Lead Toddler Teacher
Aisha Fountain
Supports center leadership while providing toddlers with a structured, loving classroom focused on learning, development, independence, and positive behavior.
Assistant Infant Teacher
Carolyn Phillips
Provides gentle, attentive care to our youngest learners while supporting feeding, safe sleep, developmental milestones, and a nurturing daily routine.
Assistant Infant Teacher
Nasia Freeman
Supports our youngest learners with warm, attentive care — helping with feeding, safe sleep, early milestones, and a calm, nurturing daily routine.
Toddler 1 & 2 Teacher
Samantha Parson
Leads our Toddler 1 & 2 classrooms with patience and creativity — guiding curious toddlers through hands-on learning, early language, social skills, and joyful daily play.
Lead School Age Teacher
Paige Pruitt
Leads our school-age classroom with energy and structure — supporting older children with engaging activities, homework help, and enrichment that keeps curious minds growing before and after school and during the summer.
Committed to Safety, Training & Quality Care
- Background-checked and fingerprinted for all staff
- CPR & First Aid certification for designated caregivers
- Ongoing early-childhood training hours
- Child abuse prevention & mandated reporter training
- Communicable disease and safe sleep training where applicable
- Warm, consistent faces your child sees every day
Want to join our team?
Interested in joining the Discovering Minds team? Explore our current opportunities and learn more about working with us.
Apply now