Laura Ligthart grew up in the Netherlands, where she completed her studies before embarking on an international career in marketing and product development. After university, she moved to France to work in sales and marketing for Les Trois Vallées — the world’s largest ski resort — combining her love of the mountains with her professional ambitions. She later relocated to Munich, Germany, where she served as marketing manager for a cosmetic packaging company. In 2005, Laura and her family moved to the United States, settling in Southern California. There, she continued her career as a product manager for several well-known cosmetic brands before transitioning into the world of education.

Since 2014, Laura has proudly served as the director of the Dutch School in Southern California. Under her leadership, the school has grown significantly — now offering classes at three campus locations (San Diego, Orange County, and North Hollywood), as well as a dynamic worldwide online program that reaches students of all ages and levels worldwide. Laura is passionate about language, culture, and building community. She especially enjoys working closely with teachers, students, and families to create meaningful, engaging educational experiences that help children stay connected to their Dutch roots — wherever they live.

She is married to a French husband, and together they are raising two bilingual and bicultural children: a 13-year-old son and a 15-year-old daughter. Their family blends Dutch, French, and American traditions and enjoys the richness that comes with an international lifestyle.