Her Story
About Stephanie
Stephanie Jones-Crossland is an experienced early childhood education professional and the owner of Amazing Grace Child Care & Preschool in Antioch, California. She has served as a preschool owner since 2020 and has developed a career centered on creating supportive, developmentally appropriate learning environments for young children. Her professional experience includes roles as a special education teacher, center director, lead preschool teacher, and development team leader, giving her a broad perspective on education, child development, and school leadership.
Stephanie specializes in early childhood development, teacher mentoring, parent partnerships, community outreach, and culturally responsive education. She is passionate about helping educators strengthen their classroom practices through effective lesson planning, observation, coaching, and individualized support. Her work also includes accommodating the developmental needs of young children, including those with special needs, while collaborating with community organizations to connect students and families with valuable services and resources.
Stephanie's educational background includes a bachelor's degree in Human Services Management and a master's degree in Adult Education and Training from the University of Phoenix, as well as training in Early Childhood Development from Compton Community College. Her career reflects a strong commitment to children, families, educators, and the broader community. Through her leadership at Amazing Grace Child Care & Preschool and her continued involvement in education and child advocacy, Stephanie strives to promote high-quality early learning and help young children establish a strong foundation for future success.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Stephanie
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the experiences and challenges that shaped my journey. With 27 years in childcare and as the owner of Amazing Grace Preschool and Childcare since 2020, I have focused on supporting families, especially single mothers. My own experience with homelessness inspired me to provide resources beyond childcare, including laundry services, grocery assistance, housing support, and community giveaways. Earning my master’s degree in Adult Education and Training and completing an early childhood development guide for Contra Costa County are among my proudest achievements.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received came from my mentors, Dr. Anthony Jackson and Sheree Haygood, who inspired me to lead with purpose and serve others. Their guidance, along with the recognition I’ve received throughout my career, including a top childcare award from Yelp and my 2026 induction into Who’s Who in America, has reinforced my commitment to making a difference. I believe success is about using your talents to support families, reduce stress for parents, and help children thrive, while staying grounded in my faith and Bible teaching ministry.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the childcare industry is to always trust in the Lord and seek His guidance through every challenge. This work can be difficult, but the rewards are far greater when you know you are making a positive difference in the lives of children and families. Stay committed, keep your faith, and trust that God will guide you through every challenge.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is securing consistent donations and increasing community awareness. These resources and greater exposure are essential for allowing me to continue providing meaningful support and services to the families who need them most.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are service, compassion, and making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. I am passionate about supporting children and families in my community through my work with the Contra Costa County Board of Education, early childhood education, bilingual teaching, coaching, and respite services for families of children with special needs. I value using my experience and education to advocate for families, create opportunities, and ensure that those who need support the most are not overlooked.
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