Our Staff
Lorraine Duran, Director
Lorraine is so excited to be joining the team! Lorraine currently holds her BA in Child Development from Humboldt State University and has been teaching for 9 years. Teaching in Humboldt was truly a magical experience having the Redwood forest as a backyard. She has attended seminars on Loose Parts curriculum, ACES, and outdoor classrooms and is passionate about multicultural/inclusive curriculum as well as cooking and woodworking with the children.. Having grown up in Los Angeles by Dodger’s stadium, she still spends much of her time out there visiting grandparents and going to Dodger games. When she is not working she enjoys exploring outdoors, family time, and trying new restaurants. Lorraine can’t wait to begin incorporating her passions at Discovery Gardens.
Alex Pluma, Environmental Teacher
Alex is currently finishing up her Environmental Science degree at Oregon State University. She is honored to be able to use the knowledge she has gathered over time through activism, school, and research to teach the young environmentalists of the world. Her previous work in childcare allows her to properly engage with and supervise your children while also implementing lessons on the environment. Alex is all about getting outdoors. Whether it be to read, crochet, or take her two pups on a walk, she is thankful for all that mother Earth has to offer
Alexis West, Teacher & Administration Assistant
As an early childhood educator, Alexis brings a wealth of experience and passion to nurturing young minds. Her journey began at Rio Hondo College, where she honed her skills in early childhood education. After laying a strong foundation there, she transferred to Biola University to deepen her understanding of Biblical studies, enriching her educational journey with spiritual growth and exploration. Since 2004, she has been dedicated to fostering learning environments that prioritize the child's innate curiosity and creativity. Beyond the classroom, her heart belongs to her family, which includes two wonderful children, as well as her beloved dogs and bunny. This deep connection to family reinforces her commitment to creating nurturing, inclusive spaces where every child feels valued and empowered to explore their potential. She is deeply honored to be a part of the journey of each child entrusted to her care, guiding them as they embark on their own unique paths of discovery and growth.
Selena Quero, Teacher
Selena is incredibly excited to be joining Discovery Gardens Fullerton. While Selena was attending Fullerton College, I discovered the Reggio-Emilia Philosophy. She had many great professors that motivated her passion and her love for Early Childhood Education. She continued her studies there and graduated with an Associate degree in Early Childhood Education.
The best thing about learning alongside the child is seeing their different strengths, personalities, and perspectives about the world around them. Selena especially appreciates being a witness to the milestones and breakthroughs in each child! In her off time, her favorite things to do are hiking on trails, spending time with her family, and eating out.
Roxana Velasco, Teacher
Roxana is a graduate from Fullerton College and Cal State Fullerton. Her interest and passion for working with preschoolers began when =she took a child development class in high school. In college, she decided to pursue studies in early childhood and adolescent development, which led her to complete my bachelor’s degree. Her previous experience working with children has taught her a lot about their development, and she is eager to continue her learning as she is a co-learning with the children. In her free time, she enjoys being outdoors and working on hobbies that enhance her creativity. She loves going on hikes, painting, and doing photography.