Check Out Anthony Flores’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Anthony Flores.

Hi Anthony, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I began my career in early childhood education over five years ago, working with preschool and kindergarten children. From the very beginning, I felt called to this field because of the way young children approach learning with such curiosity, joy, and honesty. Over time, I grew from being a classroom teacher into roles where I could support both children and educators, including coaching colleagues, leading family engagement projects, and creating learning environments that truly nurture the whole child.

My journey has been shaped not only by the classrooms I have taught in but also by the professional communities I have been blessed to be part of. Serving on the Arizona Association for the Education of Young Children’s governing board has allowed me to connect with leaders across the state and advocate for quality programs that support families. Today, as the Director of Chandler Presbyterian Day School, I carry forward that same passion and commitment to building something from the ground up. We are creating a place where children feel safe, loved, and inspired, and where families know they are true partners in their child’s growth.

Every step has been about saying yes to opportunities that align with my purpose and using those experiences to help shape the future of early childhood education in my community.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has not always been a smooth road. Like many people in education, I faced challenges that tested my resilience and commitment. Early on, I had to learn how to balance the emotional demands of teaching young children while also continuing to grow professionally. There were moments when resources were limited, and I had to find creative ways to bring learning to life for my students.

Another challenge has been stepping into leadership roles while still pursuing my own education. Juggling school, work, and service in professional organizations taught me the importance of time management and staying rooted in my purpose. There were times when it felt overwhelming, but those experiences pushed me to develop stronger systems of support and lean on mentors and colleagues who believed in me.

Each obstacle has shaped me into the educator and leader I am today. The struggles reminded me that perseverance, faith, and community are what carry you forward, even when the path is not easy.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
My work centers on building strong, developmentally appropriate programs for young children while also supporting families and educators. I specialize in early childhood education with a focus on social emotional learning, family engagement, and creating classrooms that spark curiosity and joy. Over the years, I have become known for my ability to connect deeply with children and families while also leading with vision and organization at the program level.

What I am most proud of is the trust families place in me. Whether it was in my years as a classroom teacher or now as a director, I have always made it a priority to see each child as an individual and celebrate their unique strengths. Families often tell me that I create spaces where their children feel safe, loved, and eager to learn, and that is the highest compliment I could ever receive.

What sets me apart is my ability to blend strong leadership with compassion. I am equally comfortable designing a curriculum, mentoring teachers, or sitting on the floor reading with a group of preschoolers. I believe in meeting people where they are, whether that is a child learning how to express emotions, a teacher looking for guidance, or a parent navigating their child’s first school experience. My approach combines professionalism with a genuine heart for children and families, and that is what continues to guide me in every role I take on.

How do you think about luck?
I believe that luck has played a role, but I also see it as being prepared for the opportunities that come my way. There have been moments of good luck, such as meeting mentors at just the right time or being connected to organizations that opened doors for leadership and growth. Those encounters often felt like blessings that came when I needed them most.

There have also been challenges that some might call bad luck, whether it was navigating transitions in schools, working through limited resources, or facing unexpected setbacks. Yet each of those moments taught me something important about resilience and creativity.

In many ways, luck set the stage, but it has always been hard work, faith, and the support of my community that have carried me forward. I try to see both the highs and the lows as opportunities that shaped me into the educator and leader I am today.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://chandlerpres.org/cpds
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chandlerpres_dayschool/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61568572365499
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/chandler-presbyterian-day-school-chandler?utm_campaign=www_business_share_popup&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=(direct)