Meet Our Staff
Maria Soter
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Maria Soter has immersed herself in the world of Early Childhood for over 25 years, from the inception of Salt Lake City's first Preschool for Homeless children in 1998 to, more recently, the creation of the Coaching Model and program for Head Start. Maria has always had a passion to serve children and their families, especially where a need is unmet.
Her vision for The Sammy Center became a reality in 2018 when she heard the CEO of a local program speak on behalf of the Early Childhood mental health crisis that was on an uprising. She has made a commitment to herself, the community, and the children of Salt Lake City to give them an added level of support through The Sammy Center.
alicia christ
ASSISTANT DIRECTOR
Alicia has lived in Utah since 1996. She enjoys camping with her family and floating local rivers. Alicia has worked with children her entire adult life, starting out at a local daycare while still in high school. She took an interest in helping children with special needs and individual concerns and started taking classes to support them. Having worked with Maria previously, she jumped at the chance to be part of The Sammy Center family. As the School Collaborator Alicia works in partnership with teachers, interns/volunteers, administrators, families and community partners to support our children and strengthen the overall school community.
Reina bomberski
TEACHER
Reine is from Steamboat Springs Colorado and is pursuing her bachelors degree in Psychology with a minor in both nutrition and health from the University of Utah. Her hopes are to practice sports psychology. Reina loves being outside, connecting with nature and being around people. She is excited to not only have a lasting effect on the children at The Sammy Center, but also experience and be apart of the very special community at the school.
Grace Chapman
TEACHER
Grace is going to be a sophomore at the University of Utah, majoring in Early Childhood Education. She started at the Sammy Center as an intern and is excited to transition into a teaching role. With a passion for fostering development, Grace is excited to make a positive impact at the Sammy Center.
The Sammy Center
Savannah Kreider
TEACHER
Savannah Kreider, known to many preschoolers as "Miss Savannah," is a third-generation Alaskan, born and raised on the beautiful Kenai Peninsula. She began teaching preschool in January 2019 and has never looked back. Savannah recently earned her A.S. in Early Childhood Education & Development at UVU and is currently pursuing a B.S. in Human Development & Family Studies, a minor in Psychology, along with an Infant & Early Childhood Mental Health certificate at the University of Utah. She is deeply passionate about her work and eager to expand her knowledge through her experiences at The Sammy Center. Savannah’s ultimate goal is to open her own Reggio Emilia-inspired preschool center on Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula.
Noelle MArgetts
TEACHER/RBT
Noelle graduated from the University of Utah with their child psychology and infant and early childhood mental health degree. They have always been drawn to working with infants and young children and felt they have been able to heal their own inner child through this work. They started at The Sammy Center as an intern and fell in love with the kids, the staff, and the mission of the school.
ivy tran
TEACHER
Ivy is currently pursuing a double major in Psychology and Family, Community, and Human Development, along with a certificate in Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health. Her passion has always been centered on working with children and advocating for the mental health of those who may not have a voice. She firmly believes that patience, love, and understanding can make a profound difference, and that every child deserves a safe and supportive space to grow and thrive. Starting as an intern, she discovered a deep sense of purpose at The Sammy Center, and it’s been a privilege to turn that passion into meaningful action
ayla sanchez
CLASSROOM SUPPORT "FLOATER"
Ayla is a dedicated childcare provider with a strong passion for working with children. She began her journey in this field by running her own in-home childcare, where she discovered a deeper calling to support children with different abilities. As a mother of four, including a neurodivergent child, she brings both personal and professional insight, along with patience, empathy, and understanding.
She believes every child deserves to feel safe, supported, and accepted for who they are. Ayla is committed to creating a calm and nurturing environment where children can build confidence, express themselves freely, and grow at their own pace. She enjoys incorporating art, sensory play, and outdoor time into her work to help children learn and connect in natural, engaging ways.