About Us
Why Choose Us?
A Legacy of Learning,
A Vision for Tomorrow.
We are open year round so your child can continue to learn in a safe and loving environment. We prioritize your child’s safety and emotional well-being, creating a warm, secure space where they feel protected and cared for every day. Our center celebrates every child’s unique background and identity. With bilingual staff and a culture of respect, we foster a true sense of belonging. We believe parents are a child’s first teachers. Through open communication and family engagement, we work hand-in-hand to support your child’s growth.
New Directions Childcare Center
What Sets Us Apart?
Bilingual, Culturally Responsive Staff-Our team reflects the diverse families we serve, offering bilingual communication and culturally inclusive care that helps every child feel seen and understood. Our center feels like a second home, nurturing and welcoming, while maintaining the highest standards of safety, professionalism, and early childhood education. We offer year-round enrichment, so children continue to grow, explore, and thrive even outside the traditional school calendar.
Meet The Director
Tonya Walls
Director – With over 25 years of experience in childcare and social services, Tonya Walls has dedicated her career to fostering children’s growth and supporting underserved families. As the Director of New Directions Childcare
Center, Tonya works tirelessly to create nurturing and enriching environments where children can flourish. A proud
West Chester native, Tonya discovered her passion for working with children in high school while volunteering at the Melton Center’s Head Start Program, which ignited her lifelong commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families.
Dedicated Staff
New Directions Childcare Center Team
At New Directions Childcare Center, our team is more than just educators we’re caregivers, mentors, and advocates for every child’s well-being and success. Together, we bring a diverse blend of experience, education, and passion to create a nurturing, engaging environment where children can grow, learn, and thrive.
Veronica Penaloza
Assistant Director/ Bilingual Interpreter/ Preschool Teacher
My love for working with children spans over 10 years in which I have held various roles in childcare.
Assistant Director/ Bilingual Interpreter/ Preschool Teacher
With over 10 years of experience in early childhood education, I’m passionate about creating nurturing, inclusive environments where every child can thrive. My work as both a bilingual interpreter and educator allows me to connect deeply with families and students from diverse backgrounds, building trust and supporting strong partnerships between home and school. As Assistant Director, I take pride in guiding our dedicated teaching team, ensuring each classroom fosters curiosity, creativity, and a lifelong love of learning.