Educators
Our dedicated and nurturing teaching team at Smart Start Childcare and Learning Center is deeply passionate about caring for and educating children. They prioritize empowering both the children and families we serve. Our highly qualified leadership staff, teachers, and providers bring a wealth of knowledge and experience in early childhood education, with diverse college degrees and specialized training. Together, we create a supportive and enriching environment where every child can thrive.
Gina Anderson, Owner Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Registered Nurse
As a registered nurse and small business owner, I want to emphasize that my most important role in life is being a mom. My journey to find suitable childcare for my children inspired me to create Smart Start Childcare and Learning Center, where quality is our top priority. Every day, we strive to provide a safe, happy, and healthy learning environment rooted in best practices and a passion for lifelong learning. It’s gratifying to see other childcare centers beginning to adopt elements of our approach, a testament to our commitment to excellence.
With years of nursing experience, extensive research, and careful planning, I have poured my heart into building this authentic childcare center. It has been and continues to be an honor to partner with the families and communities we serve. We are grateful for the strong relationships we've forged with our Smart Start families, creating a genuinely unique and purposeful experience for everyone involved.
We invite you to discover how Smart Start stands apart. Our current families are more than willing to share their experiences and insights, providing a valuable perspective on what makes our center special.
Thank you for visiting Smart Start Childcare and Learning Center, and for your interest in our community!
Miss Oksana, Lead Director Degree in Early Childhood Education
When I embarked on my degree in early childhood education, I set out to find a high-quality center that could truly transform the lives of children while feeling like a second home. I was yearning for a long-term career where I could forge deep connections with families. Discovering Smart Start was a revelation; I was immediately struck by the genuine care for each child, the innovative curriculum, and the owner’s unwavering commitment to being present with her staff every single day—an exceptional quality that is hard to come by.
Not only did I feel a compelling urge to join this remarkable team, but I also realized it was the only place where I would want my son and future children to thrive. The grace and compassion every teacher extended to my neurodivergent son still moves me to tears. He never felt isolated for needing extra support; instead, every challenge was approached with love and understanding, recognizing that each child has their own unique path to learning. Even now, he fondly recalls his time at Smart Start and eagerly anticipates picking up his little sister.
At Smart Start, the teachers embody a culture of quality care, living and breathing it in everything they do. I couldn’t imagine a more fulfilling career, one where I am part of a community dedicated to nurturing the potential of every child.
Miss Madi, Assistant Director
When I found out I was expecting my first son, finding high-quality childcare became my top priority. From the moment I toured Smart Start, I knew it would be a safe haven for my child. That experience profoundly influenced my perspective on childcare, inspiring me to change my career path and pursue my passion for early childhood education.
As I wrap up my master’s degree while juggling the demands of being a working mom, I have been continuously supported and uplifted by my colleagues at Smart Start. It truly is a unique place, and any child fortunate enough to attend will feel the love and care that define our community.
Miss Kelli, Assistant Director
After earning my degree in English and Theater Arts, I was inspired by the idea of creating theater by children, for children. I spent the first decade after college pursuing that vision and building a career in theater.
When my niece and nephew were born, I had the wonderful opportunity to become their full-time nanny. Caring for them introduced me to the joys of working with young children and opened my eyes to the incredible ways they learn, grow, and discover the world around them. When they began school, I found myself drawn to early childhood education and quickly realized I had found a new passion.
I joined Smart Start several years ago, and from the moment I walked through the doors, I knew it was a place where I belonged. What I value most about Smart Start is its genuinely child-led approach to learning. I believe there are endless possibilities for what children can learn and discover when we follow their interests, nurture their curiosity, and give them the freedom to explore.
One of the most rewarding parts of my work is watching children light up with excitement and become deeply engaged in something that truly captures their interest. Rather than simply following a predetermined lesson, we have the opportunity to build on their natural curiosity and see where it leads. Their enthusiasm reminds me every day why I love what I do. I feel incredibly fortunate to be part of a community where learning is joyful, meaningful, and shaped by the children themselves.