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We’re a family-centered, New Mexico–licensed learning center

Grounded in clear routines and play-based, teacher-guided exploration, each child’s unique gifts are honored and nurtured holistically with respectful boundaries and cultural responsiveness that build confidence, belonging, and a lifelong love of learning.

Get to know us

At Cri Cri Learning Center, we partner with families to provide a safe, warm, and consistent early-learning environment

Our Mission

At Cri Cri, safety, consistency, and thoughtful challenge come together in a calm, child-centered environment.

Each day follows a predictable rhythm, and learning unfolds through play and hands-on exploration, guided by warm, attentive teachers. We partner with families to nurture belonging and healthy self-esteem in every child.

Our team pursues ongoing professional development so our practice stays current and responsive to the needs of young children and their families.

Our Philosophy

We believe the early years hold extraordinary promise—and that every child’s unique gifts deserve to be seen, celebrated, and nurtured.

At Cri Cri, we help children build a healthy self-image within clear, kind boundaries—firm when needed, never threatening.

We partner with families and our community to offer choice, flexibility, and continuity, and we design services that honor each family’s culture, beliefs, abilities, and circumstances. We reject shaming practices and center dignity, so children can fully participate and feel they belong.

By working together, we help kids navigate school and everyday pressures while growing their strengths with confidence.

Our story started back in 2007...

Cri Cri began as a home daycare in 2007 in the community of Sunland Park, New Mexico, providing childcare to families who needed to go to work or school.

Seeing the need among families in the community and already having a waiting list, Cri Cri decided to expand into a center, opening its doors in 2009. Over time, Cri Cri expanded again with a special after-school center for children, as well as another center in the community of Anthony, NM. Cri Cri was also able to incorporate Early Head Start, Early Pre-K, and Mixed Pre-K programs for children who did not have the opportunity to attend school.

To date, Cri Cri continues to support and assist families in Sunland Park and Anthony, New Mexico... happy to welcome your children in!

Accreditations

5 Start Center by FOCUS program

FOCUS is New Mexico’s tiered Quality Rating & Improvement System (TQRIS) that measures and supports early-learning quality. A 5-Star rating recognizes the highest standards in curriculum, interactions, family engagement, health and safety, and continuous improvement—often aligned with national accreditation.

License by ECECD

Cri Cri operates under a New Mexico ECECD child-care license, meeting required inspections and rules for staff background checks, ratios and group size, health and safety, and facility compliance. Licensing provides ongoing oversight and transparency for families.

CACFP food program

We participate in the USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), which reimburses centers for serving nutritious meals and snacks at no cost to enrolled children, following federally guided meal patterns to support healthy growth.

A word from your child's caregivers

Rocio Ortiz

Director at Sunland Park Center

My responsibility as the executive director of Cri Cri Day Learning Center is creating a safe, enriching environment, designing and implementing educational programs and activities, ensuring curriculum meets learning standards. Communicating with families, addressing concerns and building relationships with the community and partner organizations. Last but not least provide a positive direction and support, fostering a positive and professional atmosphere.

Mercedes Rangel

Founder of Cri Cri and Director at Anthony Center

As the CEO and owner of Cri Cri Learning Center, I’m dedicated to creating a nurturing and stimulating environment where every child can thrive. My responsibility is to overseeing all center operations, developing age appropriate curricula, and ensuring the highest standards of health and safety. Under my leadership the Cri Cri has established a reputation for excellence, fostering strong relationships with families and earning a 5 start state center with FOCUS program.

Mayra Luévano

Director at Sunland Park Center (After School)

My name is Mayra Luevanos, director of Cri Cri Learning Center After School, where I am committed to providing children with a safe space full of opportunities to grow and learn. I work alongside a team of educators and families to promote the academic, social, and emotional development of each student. My vision is for every child to discover their potential through confidence, values, and creativity.

FAQs

01. What are your hours of operation?

We are open Monday through Friday for twelve months a year. Most of our locations are open from 6 am to 7 pm. Please consult each center for specific times.

02. Are meals and snacks provided?

Yes! We serve hot meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner if recquired) and nutritious snacks. Meals are cooked onsite by our school chef.

03. What if my child has a food allergy?

If your child has a diagnosed food allergy, everyone in our team (chef, directors and teachers) will partner with you to ensure your your child’s allergy plan is followed.

04. How often do you sanitize the classrooms?

Our facilities are cleaned and sanitized daily to to curb the spread of germs. Eating surfaces are washed and sanitized before and after each use.

05. How many children are per class?

We believe in keeping class numbers low to maximum learning potential.

06. How can I stay communicated throughout the day so I can see how my child is doing?

Thoughtful and outstanding communication is essential to a family’s experience in our centers. We encourage families to call and speak to your child’s teacher during the day.

07. Are teachers billingual?

Yes! All our staff is fluent both in English and Spanish. It is vital to us that your child feels safe and comfortable speaking their desired language. Although classes are in English, we translate to Spanish for the kids that need it.

08. What are the guidelines for allowing children to go outside?

We go outside twice a day, weather permitting. Children under the age of two can go outside as long as it is above 20 degrees, and children over the age of two can go outside as long as it is above zero.

09. Can my child attend 3 times per week?

Yes—depending on availability and program. Many families choose a 3-days-per-week schedule. For your child’s well-being and classroom planning, we recommend fixed days (e.g., Mon/Wed/Fri). Part-time tuition and included services may vary by campus and age group. If you receive state assistance, please check your plan’s coverage for part-time attendance. We’ll confirm details—days, hours, transportation eligibility, and any fees—during enrollment.

10. Do you offer pick-ups for the before and/or after school program?

Yes. We offer morning drop-off and/or after-school pick-up for enrolled students, depending on your child’s school, bell times, and route availability. We finalize details during enrollment.

Our admission process

The best way to know is to visit: watch how we care and teach, review details, and enroll when you´re ready!

01

Schedule a tour

Choose a time that fits your day; we'll tailor the tour to your child's age

02

Visit Us

See classrooms in action, meet the theam, and review safety, routines, and menus.

03

Enroll

Reserve your spot, complete forms, and set a start date. Remember there´s support available for state assistance if elegible

We are ready to welcome your children with open arms!

Schedule a visit, meet the teachers, and see what a day at Cri Cri is like.

We will answer all your questions and, if you wish, we can orient you with your application for government assistance.