Meet Mrs. Brandy Merriman
Team Lead & Pre-K 2 & 3 Lead Teacher
For the past six years, Mrs. Brandy Merriman has been a dedicated and valued member of the Bright Beginning team. Her commitment to early childhood education is evident not only in her daily classroom leadership but also in her professional development. She holds a Positive Psychology Certification along with her 90-Hour Preschool/Infant/School Age Certification. She is also certified in Medication Administration, CPR, and First Aid.
Ms. Brandy brings warmth, intentionality, and joy into every classroom she leads. She believes deeply in creating an environment where children feel safe, supported, and excited to learn. Her approach centers around connection, fostering meaningful relationships with her students while building strong partnerships with families.
She understands that children truly flourish when educators and families work together. By cultivating open communication and collaboration, she strives to create a unified support system that empowers every child to shine with confidence.
Outside of the classroom, Mrs. Brandy lives in Crownsville with her husband, son, and daughter. Family time is her greatest joy. Whether traveling or spending time outdoors, she treasures making memories with her loved ones.
Meet Mrs. Heather Behe
Assistant Director & Pre-K 4 & 5 Lead Teacher
For five years, Mrs. Heather Behe has been an integral part of the Bright Beginning family, and she truly can’t imagine doing anything else. Her passion for working with children began long before joining our team. While raising her own children, she spent 11 years serving as an assistant in elementary education, gaining invaluable classroom experience.
Since joining Bright Beginning, Ms. B has continued to grow professionally, earning her Child Development Associate (CDA), 90-Hour Preschool Certification, 45-Hour Maryland Directors Course Certification, as well as certifications in Medication Administration and CPR/First Aid.
Ms. B believes that every child is valuable, precious, and deserving of care, respect, and protection. Her classroom reflects that belief daily. She is known for creating engaging, hands-on learning experiences and can often be found building, crafting, or designing something new to spark curiosity and creativity in her students.
When she’s not teaching or leading, Ms. B enjoys spending time outdoors. especially on the water, running with her dog, caring for her flowers, and making memories with her family.
Leading with Heart
Both Ms. Brandy and Ms. B exemplify the heart of Bright Beginning. Their dedication to professional growth, commitment to family partnerships, and passion for creating joyful learning environments make them exceptional leaders within our centers.
We are incredibly grateful for the experience, compassion, and energy they bring to our community every single day.
