Meet Our Leadership Team
Erika Haukness
Director |
About Ms. Erika
Ms. Erika joined the Day School team in 2023. She holds a master’s degree in social work, with an emphasis in counseling, from the University of Texas in Arlington. Ms. Erika has many years of experience working with children, both in the private and non-profit sectors. Prior to joining the team at the HPUMC Day School, she worked in the counseling field, counseling children and families at The Family Place (a Dallas, non-profit agency). Ms. Erika has also worked as a Pre-Kindergarten teacher, Education Director, and for five years as a director in 2 private preschools in North Dallas. Ms. Erika and her husband, Tom (who also works in education as an Executive Principle for DISD), have one daughter; Ella. They love to travel, go to movies and explore our Bishop Arts neighborhood. Contact Erika Ms. Erika's Favorites |
Paula Morris
Assistant Director - Childhood Development |
About Ms. Paula:
Ms. Paula joined the Day School team in 2019 after retiring from the Child Care Regulation division of the Texas Department of Health and Human Services. During her tenure with HHS, she worked as a child care inspector, child care inspector supervisor and as a trainer. Ms. Paula earned her Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Texas Woman’s University. She also has a Master’s Degree in Special Education from the University of North Texas. Paula enjoys working with the Day School team who are committed to providing a happy, healthy and safe environment for children to grow. She is a proud auntie to Olivia and Gabrielle. Paula and husband Alex are animal lovers and have two rescue cats. She enjoys reading, painting and vacationing in the Smoky Mountains. Contact Paula Paula's Favorites |
Cece Woods
Assistant Director Curriculum and Instruction |
About Ms. Cece
Ms. Cece came to HPUMC Day School with a certificate in Child Development Associate and completed a BA in Education Studies at Ashford University. She taught infants through school aged children for over 20 years. Ms. Cece joined the Day School staff in 2007 and moved into the Assistant Director role coordinating curriculum, in 2024. She has four adult sons and enjoys watching YouTube, creating delicious recipes, and reading in her free time. Ms. Cece is a huge Dallas Mavericks fan! Contact Cece Cece's Favorites |
Barb Wynn
Relationships & Resources Manager |
About Ms. Barb:
Ms. Barb joined the Day School team in 2014. She earned her Bachelor's degree in Child Development, with a minor in Psychology, from the University of North Texas. Ms. Barb has been in the education field for 30 years, first as a preschool teacher and then as an administrator. Making connections with children on their level and receiving their hugs and smiles are the favorite parts of her job. Ms. Barb and her husband, Paul, have a daughter, Gillian, son-in-love, Drew and a son, Logan. Reading, traveling and spending time with friends and family are just a few ways she likes to spend her free time. Contact Barb Barb's Favorites |
Jessica Frank
Office & Staffing Manager |
About Ms. Jessica:
Ms. Jessica joined the Day School in 2021. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Applied Learning and Development from the University of Texas, received a Master of Science in Special Education from the University of North Texas and has completed all of her coursework towards her PhD in Special Education from the University of North Texas. She has worked in education for the past 15 years, both in the classroom and in administrative roles. Ms. Jessica’s favorite aspect of early childhood education is building long lasting relationships with young children and their families. While not working, Ms. Jessica enjoys traveling, shopping, knitting and spending time with her Golden Doodle, Bentley! Contact Jessica Jessica's Favorites |