My name is Paula Polito, I am the Owner/Director of Beary Cherry Tree Child Development Center located in the Greater New Orleans area which serves over 200 families. Holding an MBA from the University of New Orleans, I have been effective at running a 5 star high quality child care center since 1999.

I have worked in the child care field for over 26 years and currently serve as a contract trainer for Teachstone. My advocacy work includes serving as the Advisory Board Chair for the Louisiana Department of Education, a commission member for the Louisiana Early Childhood Care and Education Commission, Core Leadership team for the Jefferson Parish Early Childhood Collaborative, Education Chair for the Jefferson Chamber of Education and most recently Advisory Board member for the Jefferson Ready Start Network.

One of my proudest professional accomplishments includes the many lives I have impacted in my role as Director at Beary Cherry Tree. On a daily basis I run into families we have served and I hear about the many accomplishments their children have achieved. Nothing warms my heart more than knowing I had a little something to do with that.

My values include respect, kindness, truth and hard work. Treating all individuals with respect and kindness is the basis for forming sound relationships. When individuals are true to who they are and maintain truth in all they do, it allows us to be successful in all of our endeavors. Hard work is something that has been modeled for me throughout my life. It is a value I instill in my children and practice each and everyday.

Outside of work I am a fun loving mother of three and wife. I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, exercise, dancing and traveling. I enjoy festivals, sports events and all the excitement our city of New Orleans has to offer!