Our Team
Carol Smith | Director
I am the Director of Precious Angels Childcare and Learning Center, with over 35 years of experience in early childhood education. Before stepping into this role, I served as a family day home provider, where my passion for nurturing and educating young children truly began.
Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working in several prestigious childcare centers that helped shape and guide me into the educator I am today. In 2003, I made the decision to return to college, a step that allowed me to make significant progress toward my professional and personal goals.
Continuing my education through college courses and professional workshops has been both rewarding and inspiring, fueling my commitment to growth as an educator. My ultimate goal is to obtain a Bachelor of Science degree in Early Childhood Education to further support the success of children and families.
It is both an honor and a joy to serve children, and I remain dedicated to creating environments where they can learn, thrive, and reach their fullest potential.
Ashley Smith | Family Engagement Specialist
Ms. Ashley was born and raised in Memphis, TN. She is not only one of Ms. Carol’s very first students from her in-home daycare, but also her daughter. Over the years, she has served in many roles at Precious Angels, with her most rewarding time spent as a longtime Preschool Teacher.
She earned her Bachelor of Science in Social Work from LeMoyne-Owen College and later obtained a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Union University. In addition to her work in healthcare, Ms. Ashley has dedicated her time to Precious Angels as the Family Engagement Specialist.
Passionate about partnering with her mother, she remains committed to providing safe, nurturing, and high-quality care for children—creating a true “home away from home.”
Xochitl Sanchez | Educator
Hello, my name is Xochitl Sanchez. I was born and raised in Memphis, TN, so it felt only right to attend the University of Memphis—go Tigers! I studied there for five years and graduated in May 2024 with a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education and a minor in Child Development.
I have been working with children for about six to seven years, with the past two years dedicated specifically to the field of early childhood education. I chose to begin my career in daycare to gain hands-on experience with children who are just starting school for the first time.
Looking ahead, I plan to further my education and continue helping students succeed while inspiring them to love learning as much as I do.
Glenda J. Valentin | Educator
I have been a part of the Precious Angels Childcare family since 2005. I began my journey as a preschool teacher and now serve as the Infant and Toddler Teacher. Over the years, I have contributed to many aspects of the center’s daily operations, always striving to support the growth and development of every child in my care.
I hold a National CDA, a Basic Early Childhood Technical Certificate, and have completed training with the Tennessee Early Childhood Training Alliance and LENA Grow for Infants and Toddlers. My professional development is ongoing, as I continue to pursue training in Early Childhood Education and leadership.
Although my passion for children is at the heart of my work, I have also been blessed with other talents—one of which is ministering to others through food. This gift has allowed me to provide delicious and memorable meals for Precious Angels events, serving both parents and children with joy and care.
Sharon Brooks | Educator
My name is Sharon Brooks, and I am a proud mother of four and grandmother of seven. I currently serve as a preschool teacher at Precious Angels Daycare, where I am passionate about creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment. I strive to design age-appropriate activities that allow children to thrive, develop essential skills, and foster a love for learning.
My journey in early childhood education began as a teenager, when I worked with the City of Memphis Parks as a camp counselor. From there, I went on to serve as a preschool teacher in various childcare centers, gaining valuable experience and deepening my love for working with children. With over 35 years of experience in the field, I remain committed to encouraging curiosity and supporting social and emotional growth in every child I teach.
In 2023, I earned my Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, and in 2024, I received my Lena Grow Certificate in child development. I am also certified in First Aid and CPR. This profession has brought me tremendous joy, and I am truly grateful for the opportunity to help children discover their interests, grow in confidence, and reach their fullest potential
