Samantha Hooper
Samantha Hooper is a seasoned District Manager and multi-unit leader in early childhood education, bringing over 15 years of experience in driving excellence across large, multi-site preschool operations. For more than a decade, she has been a cornerstone of Learning Care Group, where she currently oversees 21 preschools throughout Florida, spanning regions from Tampa to Gainesville. Known for her strategic vision and hands-on leadership, Samantha consistently ensures that each center under her guidance meets the highest standards of educational quality, operational efficiency, and team development.
Samantha’s career began as a preschool teacher, a foundation that has shaped her deep understanding of child development, curriculum implementation, and classroom dynamics. Over the years, she advanced through leadership roles, combining practical classroom experience with strong business acumen. Her expertise encompasses operational and financial management, staff recruitment and development, curriculum oversight, and ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards. Samantha has played an instrumental role in the successful launch of four new preschools, demonstrating her ability to scale operations while maintaining organizational excellence and fostering thriving learning environments.
Committed to professional growth and leadership development, Samantha holds a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential and a Florida Director’s Credential, and she has participated in advanced leadership programs, including those sponsored by Harvard. She is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Business Operations and Education, further strengthening her capacity to lead at scale. Beyond her operational responsibilities, Samantha is dedicated to mentoring and empowering the next generation of early education leaders. Her involvement with initiatives such as the iCare Foundation highlights her passion for giving back to the teaching community, and her contributions have been recognized through multiple internal awards celebrating her leadership, impact, and commitment to excellence. Samantha’s career reflects an unwavering dedication to enriching the lives of children, supporting educators, and advancing the field of early childhood education.
• Child Development Associate (CDA)
• Florida Director’s Credential
• Purdue Global - BS in Early Childhood Administration
• District Peoples Leadership Award 2019
• DM Leadership Program 2024
What do you attribute your success to?
Hard work and dedication. Love for the field of work I chose. Early Education is so important- we are investing in these childrens education and care early on and partnering with families.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Continue to always do your Best, Lead with Empathy, and be the Manager you wish you had when you were in that role.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Its a hard job but its beyond fullfilling! Keep going and remember the lifes you are shaping.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Early Education is not a field known for paying well which means we see a lot of turnover. The teachers you see with 20-30 years of tenure are not here because the pay is good they are here because of the passion they have for the job. I wish I could pay them all so much more then they make. They deserve it!
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Honesty and transparency. I appreciate it from others so I try to always be open, honest, and transparent as well.