Valerie Iraheta

Valerie Iraheta is a San Francisco native and Lead Teacher who brings a warm, thoughtful, and deeply individualized approach to early childhood education. With an AA emphasizing Early Childhood Education, Valerie is passionate about recognizing each child as a whole person, honoring their unique needs, interests, and developmental pace.

At JCCSF Preschool, Valerie focuses on building strong, trusting relationships with children and families alike. She believes that meaningful learning grows from connection, consistency, and collaboration between home and school. Her relationship-based practice helps create an inclusive classroom where children feel understood and confident, and where families feel truly seen and valued.

Valerie’s path to teaching was shaped by witnessing the power of patient, responsive care, especially while supporting a child with developmental differences. That experience continues to guide her work today, grounding her commitment to equity, belonging, and individualized support for every learner.

When she’s not in the classroom, you might find Valerie exploring the city on long dog walks with her mixed shepherd or enjoying one of her favorite local spots, the Visitacion Valley Greenway.