David Allen-Hughes is a world traveler, philanthropist, and entrepreneur. He has an impressive pedigree, and an even stronger love and respect for children.

David, who started his career around the corner on Shady Lane as a five-year-old lemonade-stand “entrepreneur,” is known as a friend to our community. He is the founder of several businesses, including multi-location day camps (Camp Doodles), an overnight summer camp (Marin Ranch Camp), and The Marin Camp Fair. Additionally, David purchased the once-struggling Swirl (FroYo) in San Anselmo in 2017 and quickly turned it into a thriving business. David has since sold all of the aforementioned businesses. Thanks to these experiences, his family follows two guiding rules: “If we see a lemonade stand, we must stop and support,” and “If we can help, we do.” (Thanks, Sydney, for the tips!)

David is an educator who holds a Multiple Subjects Teaching Credential and a Master of Education from Dominican University, and has worked as both an elementary school teacher and principal. He also holds multiple Child Development Permits from the State of California, including a "Master Teacher" Permit and the highest preschool credential available, the Program Director Permit. Beyond formal credentials, David is a lifelong learner who has participated in extensive professional development, including international study at the Green School in Bali, Indonesia, and immersive training in Reggio Emilia, Italy, where he became deeply “Reggio Inspired.”

At The Ross Preschool, David serves in a high-level leadership and support role, helping to guide vision, values, and long-term direction while partnering closely with the school’s leadership team. The day-to-day operations of the preschool are led by a highly capable team, allowing David to focus on mentorship, strategic support, community connection, and ensuring the school’s mission and culture remain strong and consistent. David is an active presence in the life of the school and deeply engaged in supporting the people and programs that make TRP thrive.

While education and experience speak volumes, it is often the intangibles that shape leadership most. David was born in Africa to a Swiss mother and a British father, attended preschool in France, and later grew up in Ross. He attended Ross School, then Mill Valley schools, before heading east to prep and boarding school. As an adult, David spent several years abroad working and studying in Europe, including time as a bartender in Aix-en-Provence and later as an English teacher at Lycée Michel Montaigne in Bordeaux, France.

David is a former EMT (Emergency Medical Technician) and Red Cross CPR and First Aid instructor, and previously worked on medical response teams for special events and concerts. He is also certified through the ServSafe Food Safety Manager Program and has completed California’s Child Care Preventive Health and Safety certification. It is no surprise that the #1 rule at The Ross Preschool is “Be Safe” (followed by “Be Kind,” “Be Responsible,” “Keep Trying,” and “Have Fun!”).

Beyond the preschool, David remains deeply involved in the Ross community. He and his wife, Lily (also from Ross), are often seen enjoying pickleball at Lagunitas Country Club, spending time at Pixie Park (where both Lily and David serve on the board), and exploring Ross and San Anselmo with their daughter Annabelle (born November 2017) and son August (born January 2022). David is committed to giving back and is frequently involved in raising guide-dog puppies for Guide Dogs for the Blind, volunteering with the Make-A-Wish Foundation, and supporting local community events whenever possible.