Champions Provider Highlight: Starling International Childcare and Learning Complex Henrico, VA
In the heart of Henrico County, the Starling Learning Complex has been a cornerstone of early childhood education for nearly three decades. At the center of this vibrant learning community are several long-term leaders. I had the pleasure of speaking with Assistant Principal, Kiran Mehra, whose dedication to the staff and families is as unwavering as it is inspiring.
Under the leadership of Ms. Donna Goff—who has owned and operated the school since it’s inception-Starling Learning Complex is committed to ensuring that every child, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status, has access to the same high-quality learning experiences. Extracurricular and specialty programs are embedded into the day, removing barriers for families and creating equity from the earliest years. Starling Learning Complex is home to a variety of enriching programs, including a swimming program. With an indoor pool and a lifeguard on-site, even school-age children have the opportunity to swim during the school year. Past events have included family swim nights, adding to the center’s strong sense of community.
For Kiran Mehra, this work is also deeply personal. Growing up in India, she was inspired by her aunt who ran a school. That planted the first seeds of her passion for education. After earning a Master’s in Economics, Kiran moved into the world of early childhood education, first joining Children’s World in 1990. She met Donna Goff—by chance—at a grocery store in 1991, and their shared vision led to a partnership that’s now spanned 34 years. She’s been with Starling since it opened its doors in 1995.
At Starling, preparing children for the future is not just a goal—it’s a daily practice. Teachers take education seriously, and it shows in the learning environment. Staff members are supported in their growth through access to Child Development Associate (CDA) programs. These educational pursuits are funded by the center. Management staff believes investing in professional development ensures that the educators at Starling are continuously growing, which in turn benefits the children in their care.
Starling Learning Complex has had a longstanding relationship with ChildSavers’ Child Development Services (CDS). Their ongoing professional development support includes participation in CPR/First Aid training, virtual and in-person trainings, and coaching/technical assistance. Kiran notes that the MAT (Medication Administration Training), while no longer available, had also been a valuable resource.
One of the proudest moments for the Starling team has been earning the Best Childcare award from the Richmond Times-Dispatch for several consecutive years, including 2024. They’re once again in the running this year. The center has also been named a Best Workplace, a testament to its supportive and nurturing culture—not only for children but for staff as well. With six Pre-K classrooms and an average of 60–70 children graduating annually, the impact of their work is substantial.
When asked what advice she’d offer to other childcare providers, Kiran doesn’t hesitate: “Take care of your employees, and they will take great care of your children.” At Starling, this philosophy is more than a slogan—it’s part of the culture. Staff enjoy professional development days filled with team-building activities, chef-prepared meals, games, and prizes. Birthdays are celebrated with gift cards, and the staff are treated like family.
For those considering a career in early childhood education, Kiran offers this honest advice: “You need to have passion for it. Not everyone is fit for this job.” It’s clear that passion is what drives her—and the entire team at Starling—to provide exceptional care and education to every child who walks through their doors.
The Child Development Services program at ChildSavers supports the childcare and early education sectors with a broad range of training and professional development opportunities that include credentialing, mentoring, and nutrition education. To learn more about these programs and trainings, visit here!
