Everything We Do… We Do It Together!
Welcome!
At Hilltop, childhood is celebrated, learning is an adventure, and every child’s unique capabilities are nurtured. Our innovative program—rooted in diverse early childhood philosophies—places play, exploration, and collaboration at the heart of education. We strive to create a second home for children: a place where they feel valued, inspired, and ready for the journey of learning.
Children and families at Hilltop are welcomed into learning communities, small villages within our larger center where relationships, connection, and belonging come first. These communities allow children to grow in a consistent, supportive environment while also engaging with a wider circle of peers and educators. In this way, children experience the best of both worlds: the intimacy of a close-knit group and the richness of a broader community.
Here, diversity is cherished, self-directed play is embraced, and every child’s potential is honored. Together with families, we build a community where children grow with confidence, curiosity, and joy.
News and Announcements
Leadership Transition at Hilltop Children’s Center
10/30/2025 — We are announcing an important leadership transition at Hilltop Children’s Center. After six years of dedicated service, Darline Guerrero will be stepping down from her role as Executive Director. Darline’s tenure has been marked by extraordinary vision, resilience, and a deep commitment to early childhood education and the families we serve.
During her time at Hilltop, Darline led transformative changes that strengthened our organization and enriched our community. She expanded access to high-quality early learning by securing state and city tuition assistance programs and enrolling Hilltop in the Seattle Preschool Program (SPP) and Early Achievers. Her leadership also fostered diversity, with faculty and families now representing a rich mix of backgrounds – bringing our community to 50% diversity.
Darline guided Hilltop through some of its most challenging times, including stabilizing the organization during the COVID-19 pandemic. She recovered the organization from a $1 million deficit and rebuilt financial reserves, ensuring long-term stability. At the same time, she championed professional growth and equity for educators—securing partnerships with the Department of Education and Early Learning (DEEL), meaningfully increasing educator wages (on par with public school educators), and expanding access to advanced training opportunities, including international learning experiences.
Her vision extended to program innovation – adding infant care, expanding capacity, and enhancing outdoor play spaces. She introduced new services such as transportation for after-school care and improved meal programs through a kitchen expansion. Darline also strengthened Hilltop’s voice in the broader early childhood education field by building relationships with political leaders and advocating for systemic improvements.
Darline’s leadership leaves an enduring legacy of stability, equity, and excellence. She has positioned Hilltop as a model for what early learning can and should be – a place where children thrive, educators are valued, and families feel supported.
We will soon share details about the search for our next Director. Please join us in expressing our deepest gratitude for her unwavering dedication and transformative leadership.
Warmly,
Hilltop Board of Directors