Our Staff

Lorraine Duran, Director

Lorraine is so excited to be joining the team! She 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 the Reggio Emilia philosophy, multicultural/inclusive curriculum, as well as cooking and woodworking with the children.

Lorraine is currently pursuing her Master's degree at the University of La Verne. Having grown up in Los Angeles by Dodger Stadium, she still spends much of her time there visiting grandparents and going to Dodger games. When she is not working, she enjoys exploring the outdoors, spending time with family, 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

Jarely Martinez, Teacher

Jarely has been an educator for about five years and brings a wealth of experience, including a background in the Reggio Emilia approach from a local preschool. She recently obtained an associate degree in communications and has also completed several units in early childhood education. Jarely is passionate about seeing children grow and flourish, nurturing their imagination and creativity with their brilliant minds. She finds it incredibly rewarding to watch them progress, learn, and have fun during this exciting time in their lives. In her spare time, Jarely loves to explore the outdoors, whether it's hiking, visiting amusement parks, or discovering new favorite spots. She believes that exploration is the key to learning and brings this spirit of adventure into her teaching.

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.

Angeles Martinez, Teacher