Our Mission
At Courageous Minds Learning Center, our mission is to empower neurodivergent children with unique abilities by providing a nurturing, inclusive, individualized educational environment.
We are dedicated to fostering each child’s strengths through evidence-based teaching, theraputic support, and a whole-child approach that promotes confidence, independence, and lifelong learning.
Together with families and professionals, we champion a future where every courageous mind can thrive.
Meet the Team
Meet the passionate team behind Courageous Minds Learning Center—educators, therapists, and leaders dedicated to creating a supportive, individualized, and empowering environment for every child. Together, we combine expertise, compassion, and a shared belief that every learner deserves to shine.
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Lisa Gonzalez is the Co-Founder and Director of CMLC and Super Hero Speech. As a speech therapist, educator, and mom, Lisa brings compassion, creativity, and a deep understanding of neurodiversity to everything she does. She believes in meeting every child exactly where they are and helping them grow with confidence.
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Ariel Sakowitz is the Co-Founder of Courageous Minds Learning Center and Co-Owner of Super Hero Speech. As a speech-language pathologist and business owner, Ariel combines clinical expertise with a deep passion for helping neurodivergent children reach their full potential. She believes in creating supportive spaces where every child feels valued, capable, and inspired to grow.
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Lisa Samaroo Rivera is the Co-Owner of The Children’s First Preschool Early Learning Center and has been a dedicated leader in early childhood education for over 20 years. With decades of hands-on experience, Lisa is deeply committed to creating a warm, nurturing environment where young children feel safe, supported, and excited to learn. She believes in building strong foundations during the earliest years and works closely with families and staff to ensure every child receives individualized attention and care. Her long-standing dedication and heart for children are at the core of the preschool’s welcoming community.
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Gerard Samaroo was a devoted leader and cherished presence at The Children’s First Preschool Early Learning Center. His dedication to the school and its families was evident in everything he did. Gerard believed deeply in the power of early childhood education and worked tirelessly to ensure every child felt safe, supported, and valued. His steady leadership, kindness, and commitment helped shape the strong foundation and close-knit community the preschool is known for today. Though he is deeply missed, his legacy continues to live on in the heart of the school and in the countless lives he touched.
Contact us
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