With certification in early childhood education, infant and toddler development, child abuse and case practice, Montessori education, leadership training, and whole school management, Charaine Lucas brings a lot to the table in the college’s department of education. Her experience as program coordinator, family services coordinator, teacher, manager, early childhood director, and more mean she is beyond qualified to teach the next generation of early childhood educators, which she does with pleasure. Introducing: Professor Charaine Lucas!

Name: Charaine Lucas
Title: Associate Professor of Education & Director of the Early Childhood Education Program
Email: chlucas@puc.edu
Faculty since: July 2011

Classes taught: All early childhood courses and some education ones, as well.

Education: Bachelor’s degree in early childhood education, University of West Indies; bachelor’s degree in elementary education, Andrews University; master’s degree in Montessori education, from Barry University; doctoral degree in educational leadership, Jones International University.

What made you decide to be a teacher?
I am the oldest of six children and lost my father to a heart attack when I was fourteen. My mother went out to work so I had a lot of responsibility in taking care of my siblings and the youngest was two years old. In high school, I decided to become a teacher at that time in my life so as to provide a good foundation for young children.

What are some of your hobbies?
Reading, playing music, teaching.

What’s something people might be surprised to know about you?
I worked on both Disney and Royal Caribbean cruise lines as a youth counselor.

What’s your favorite thing about PUC?
The warm community and the nature trails.

What’s your favorite spot on campus?
The library.

What’s your favorite movie?
The “Star Wars” trilogy, “The Hobbit” movies, and “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy.

What advice would you give to an incoming freshman?
Plan, schedule, and organize your classes and events from your very first year.

Professional activities: Several early childhood presentations and newsletter articles at early childhood conventions, conferences, and preschools.