Daycare & Preschool in
Tampa Westchase, FL

Welcoming all

Welcome to Lightbridge Academy of Tampa Westchase, FL! We're thrilled that you are considering our center for your child’s early learning journey. Our brand-new facility is currently under construction, & we can't wait to open our doors to provide a nurturing & enriching environment for your little one. As the Solution for Working Families®, we're more than a daycare. We're actively enrolling for our Infant, Toddler, Preschool, & Pre-K programs & would love to share more about our center!

A Message From Us

Meet the Owner - Hetal Shah
We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Lightbridge Academy to Tampa Westchase, guided with heart and vision by local mom and entrepreneur Hetal Shah!

Hetal is a proud mother of twin boys and, with the support of her husband, has turned her passion for family and community into a mission: creating a place where parents feel supported and children thrive. Family is at the heart of everything Hetal does. Her husband and boys are her daily inspiration, reminding her why nurturing environments matter so much.

Why Lightbridge Academy?
Hetal chose Lightbridge Academy because its Circle of Care philosophy perfectly reflects her own values. As a working mom, she knows how important it is to have a trusted partner who supports not just children, but parents and the entire family. Lightbridge Academy’s commitment to being The Solution for Working Families® resonated deeply with her personal journey, making it the ideal way to give back to her community.

And after work? Hetal loves spending quality time with her family enjoying cozy movie nights, cooking together, or exploring Tampa’s beaches. These moments fuel her passion to help other families find balance and joy in their everyday lives.

Meet the Director - Sunna Clark

With over a decade of leadership in early childhood education, I specialize in building exceptional learning programs and supportive school communities. I have led new school openings, maintained licensing and accreditation, and guided teams to excellence in both education and care.

My experience includes implementing high-quality curriculum while fostering strong partnerships with families and the community.

I’m passionate about mentoring teachers, maintaining open communication with families, and creating safe, inspiring environments where children develop curiosity, confidence, and a love of learning.

Outside of work, I enjoy painting, nature walks, paddleboarding, traveling, and spending time with my husband of 25+ years and our two adult children.

Schedule a Tour

From the first hello, to the last goodbye, we want you and your child to feel safe, nurtured and excited to learn!

Please fill out the information to the right and we will be in touch.

CONTACT INFORMATION

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Upcoming Events

Events in March 2026

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday
February 23, 2026
February 24, 2026
February 25, 2026(1 event)


February 25, 2026

🎉 Visit us at the WOW Summer Camp Expo!

Stop by tonight from 5–7 p.m. at the Westchase Recreation Center (next to Westchase Elementary). Discover exciting activities, meet our staff, and see why this summer will be unforgettable!

February 26, 2026
February 27, 2026
February 28, 2026
March 1, 2026
March 2, 2026
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March 5, 2026
March 6, 2026(1 event)

March 6, 2026

🦷✨ Happy National Dentist Day – March 6! ✨🦷

Today we celebrate the amazing dentists who keep our smiles bright and healthy! 😁💙 Their care, patience, and dedication make a lasting difference in the lives of children and families every single day.

At Lightbridge Academy of Westchase, we’re grateful for the dental professionals in our community who help teach the importance of healthy habits and confident smiles. From brushing basics to regular checkups, you help set our little learners up for lifelong success! 🪥🦷

Join us in saying THANK YOU to the dentists who make our community shine a little brighter! 🌟

March 7, 2026
March 8, 2026(1 event)

March 8, 2026

It’s 🌷 Spring Forward time! 🌷

Don’t forget to set your clocks forward one hour on March 8th! ⏰✨

We may lose an hour of sleep, but we gain longer, brighter evenings and more sunshine to enjoy with our families. ☀️🌼

Here’s to lighter days and the start of a beautiful spring season! 🌸

March 9, 2026
March 10, 2026
March 11, 2026
March 12, 2026
March 13, 2026
March 14, 2026(1 event)

March 14, 2026

🥧✨ Happy National Pi Day! ✨🥧

At Lightbridge Academy of Westchase, we believe the best lessons happen when learning is hands-on — and sometimes a little sweet! 💛

Today is the perfect opportunity to create special memories in the kitchen with your little ones. Baking together builds math skills, strengthens fine motor development, encourages teamwork, and most importantly… creates moments your family will cherish.

Whether you're measuring ingredients, mixing apples, or cutting out a fun π symbol, every step is a chance to learn and laugh together.

March 15, 2026
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March 18, 2026
March 19, 2026
March 20, 2026(1 event)

March 20, 2026

Happy 1st Day of Spring to all our wonderful families and friends at Lightbridge Academy of Westchase! 🌸🌷

We’ve loved all the cozy moments this winter brought, but we’re so excited to welcome the beautiful spring weather, blooming flowers, and brighter days ahead! ☀️🌼

Here’s to a season filled with growth, sunshine, laughter, and new adventures for our amazing children and families. 💛🌈

Happy Spring! 🌺

March 21, 2026
March 22, 2026
March 23, 2026
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March 25, 2026
March 26, 2026
March 27, 2026
March 28, 2026(1 event)

March 28, 2026

Stop by our table as we support the Kids Run This Hood event on March 28th!

We’ll be handing out water bottles and sharing information about our school. We look forward to connecting with and supporting the Westchase community.

March 29, 2026(1 event)

March 29, 2026

We’re excited to be part of the Westchase Egg Hunt this year! 🐣🌷

Be sure to stop by our table to learn more about Lightbridge Academy of Westchase and what sets us apart. From our nurturing environment to our innovative early childhood education programs, we’re proud to serve families in our community.

We’re looking forward to seeing you, meeting new friends, and celebrating with the wonderful Westchase community. Hop on over and say hello! 💛🥚✨

March 30, 2026
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April 5, 2026

Our Next Event

Available Programs

AT LIGHTBRIDGE ACADEMY IN Tampa, FL
INFANT

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TODDLER

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PRESCHOOL

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PRE-K

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KINDERGARTEN

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SUMMER CAMP

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BACK-UP CARE

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Can I enroll my child in Lightbridge Academy at any time?

Yes. Enrollment at all Lightbridge Academy locations is ongoing as long as space is available.

Is there a minimum or maximum number of days per week my child can attend Lightbridge Academy?

All Lightbridge Academy locations are open Monday through Friday. Most programs are available from 2 to 5 days per week. Back-up care is available on a daily and space available basis.

How will I be informed about my child's progress at Lightbridge Academy?
Effective communication happens on an ongoing and daily basis through our parent eCommunication app. You will receive ongoing and daily reports detailing important classroom announcements, reminders, photos, and videos so you won’t miss a thing! It is also a great tool for doctor visits helping to keep track of important information such as what your child ate, how they slept and even potty details. In addition, teachers will track your child’s development by taking observation notes based on our curriculum. We review this information with you twice a year at our Parent Teacher conferences. Of course, directors and teachers are always available to speak with you at any time.
What is the average adult to child ratio at most Lightbridge Academy locations?
Each Lightbridge Academy center meets or exceeds state regulations regarding adult to child ratios. You can rest assured that your child will receive an abundance of attention from trained and caring early childhood professionals.
9660 W Waters Ave
Tampa, FL 33635
P 813-397-6247
F 813-656-5775
Monday – Friday
7:00 AM – 6:00 PM