New leadership takes hold at Hampton Community Christian Daycare

A new face will take over as director of the Hampton Community Christian Daycare as a familiar one says goodbye.

Robyn Kofoot, former Cub Cadet Daycare director in Latimer, will take over director duties from Laura Bradley, who will retire later this month.

Bradley first came to Hampton Community Christian Daycare 16 years ago and has served as the director for the last decade. Bradley said she felt the time was right for retirement but the decision was not an easy one because of the joy she found working with children and the staff.

“What kept me going was the hugs in the morning, the ‘Hi, Miss Laura’s,’ and knowing those kids needed another adult in their lives,” she said. “I’ll miss them the most.”

Bradley’s retirement will become effective Dec. 20 and when it does, she said she plans to spend time sewing and making crafts, as well as providing respite care for her nephew. In the meantime, she will work with Kofoot to ensure the transition between directors goes smoothly and children continue to receive the quality of care for which the center has become known.

“Even after I’m gone, she can come to me for questions,” she said. “This is a big undertaking with the building, the staff and all the families we serve.”

Kofoot, who served with Cub Cadet for 13 years, said she’s excited for the opportunity use her expertise and experience in childcare to bring the center into its next chapter. She said the transition has been smooth so far and has allowed her to begin building relationships with the parents and staff.

“One thing that I’ve always prided myself on is my relationship with the families I have served and I intend to continue building relationships with the families and staff here,” she said. “The families have been really open to helping me bridge that transition and that’s been really positive, I think.”

Kofoot said one of her main goals is simply help the center to continue in the positive direction it headed under Bradley’s leadership so it continues to be an asset to the community.

“My main goal is just to continue the stability that Laura has built up and keep providing the need in the community because we know it is a huge need,” she said.