Our COO Begins Graduate Studies at UMES!
Advancing her education to strengthen early childhood leadership and the future of Ready Set Prep!
Ready Set Prep Early Learning Center is proud to celebrate Latesha Reid, Chief Operating Officer (COO), as she returns to school to begin her master’s program in Human Ecology with a focus on Child Development at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES). This exciting milestone reflects her dedication to professional growth, educational excellence, and the children and families who are at the heart of RSP’s mission.
As COO, Latesha plays a vital role in the daily operations and continued development of Ready Set Prep. Her leadership helps ensure that the center maintains a nurturing, organized, and high-quality learning environment where children can thrive and educators have the support they need to succeed. From guiding classroom operations and supporting staff to strengthening family relationships and helping shape organizational priorities, she brings commitment, care, and purpose to every aspect of her work.
A Commitment to Learning and Leadership
Latesha’s decision to pursue graduate studies is an investment not only in her own professional journey, but also in the future of the children and educators she serves. Human Ecology and Child Development explore the many factors that influence how children grow, learn, and develop, including family, environment, relationships, and developmental experiences. Her studies will provide additional opportunities to deepen her knowledge and bring research-informed perspectives into RSP’s educational and operational practices.
At Ready Set Prep, we believe that great educators and leaders never stop learning. Latesha’s pursuit of her master’s degree demonstrates that commitment in action and sets a meaningful example for the RSP team, showing that professional growth and continued education are essential parts of building a strong early childhood organization.
Strengthening the RSP Experience
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit childcare organization, RSP is committed to providing high-quality, developmentally appropriate education that prepares children for school and life. Latesha’s continued education aligns with that mission by strengthening the connection between child development, classroom practice, family engagement, and organizational leadership.
Her graduate journey also complements RSP’s growing focus on innovation, including Digital Literacy, AI & Me, and the RSP Tech Lab. While technology creates new opportunities for learning, a strong understanding of child development ensures that every innovation remains grounded in the needs, abilities, and well-being of young children. Latesha’s expertise and continued learning will help RSP maintain that important balance as the organization grows.
Leading by Example
Returning to school while serving as Chief Operating Officer is a significant commitment, and Latesha’s willingness to take this next step reflects the determination and vision that she brings to RSP every day. Her journey reinforces a powerful message to both the staff and families: learning is lifelong, growth is intentional, and investing in ourselves allows us to better serve others.
“Returning to school is an opportunity to continue growing as a leader and deepen my understanding of how we can best support children and families,” said Reid. “Working with children every day reminds me that no two children learn or grow in exactly the same way. I’m excited to return to school and deepen my understanding of child development so I can continue meeting children where they are and supporting the educators and families who help them thrive. This next chapter is about challenging myself, staying curious, and bringing even more knowledge and heart to the work I love.”
Celebrating the Next Chapter
Latesha’s return to graduate school is another example of the leadership, dedication, and forward-thinking spirit that make Ready Set Prep special. As she begins this new chapter at UMES, the entire RSP community looks forward to supporting her and celebrating the knowledge, accomplishments, and opportunities that will come from her continued education.
Please join us in congratulating Latesha Reid on this exciting academic milestone. Her commitment to learning, leadership, and child development is an inspiration to our team and a meaningful investment in the future of Ready Set Prep.
Ready Set Prep Early Learning Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to high-quality early childhood education, family partnership, and innovative learning experiences that nurture the whole child.
