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Meet The Teachers

Meet the Teachers

Caring leaders, supportive classrooms

Our ECEMS team is made up of educators who love creating a safe, welcoming environment where children can learn through play, build confidence, and grow strong social-emotional skills. Meet our co-directors and owners below.

ECEMS co-directors and owners Mari Palma (left) and Rita Samora (right)

Mrs. Maricela “Mari” Palma

Co-Director / Owner

I have been married for 17 years to my husband Mike. We have three daughters: Daijah, Thalicia, and Angel. I have a grandson named XJ. I have one dog named Oreo, and two box turtles—Squirt (the girl) and Crush (the boy).

Fun Fact

I love to watch the Denver Nuggets, Denver Broncos, Colorado Rockies, and the Colorado Avalanche. I try to go to a live game at least once a year.

Favorite Quote: “Courage is what it takes to stand up and speak; courage is also what it takes to sit down and listen.” — Winston Churchill

Mrs. Rita Samora

Co-Director / Owner

About me: I’ve been in the early childhood field for over 37 years and have held many roles—starting as a teacher’s aide, working up to center director, and now serving as a business owner. I love being in the classroom, and I’ve been at the CSU Pueblo Center since it opened over 30 years ago.

My Education

I went to Pueblo County High School (forever a County Hornet). I graduated from Pueblo Community College with an Associate degree in Early Childhood Education, held my CDA (Child Development Associate) for over 20 years, and have many additional training certificates. I also belong to several associations connected to early childhood education.

My Family

They are the richest treasure I have on this earth. I have been married to my husband Leonard for 39 years. I come from a family of four sisters and one brother—most of whom are in the education field. My mother Josephine was (and is) my biggest educator of faith, life, and unconditional love.

Fun Facts

  • I love cocker spaniel dogs! I have a new baby—“Ruby Red,” an AKC black cocker spaniel.
  • I collect gnomes.
  • I enjoy being outside and planting flowers.
  • I love playing with water and dirt.
Favorite Quote: “Don’t quit.” “Failure is success turned inside out.”

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ECEMS Childcare

Monday-Friday 7:00.am.-5:30.pm.

2200 Bonforte Blvd.
Pueblo, CO 81001
Office: 719.549.2407

Email: maricela.palma@csupueblo.edu
Email: rita.e.samora@csupueblo.edu
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