Gwen Hetrick, Lead Teacher, Site Director

gwen@positivebrightstart.org

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Gwen is Lead Teacher/Site Director with more than 20 years of experience in education, dedicated to creating warm, welcoming spaces where children and families feel truly at home. Since beginning her child caregiving work in 2004, Gwen has been passionate about building nurturing environments that support the whole child — socially, emotionally, and academically. Her approach is grounded in trauma-informed practices and Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS), helping children feel safe, understood, and confident as they grow and learn.  Gwen believes that strong relationships are at the heart of a thriving program. She values connection, kindness, collaboration, and work to create a sense of community where children support one another every day.  Outside of work, Gwen enjoys spending quality time with her small family — husband Jake and daughter Maxine. She also loves crocheting, reading, and find joy in life’s simple, cozy moments.