Kristen@ChildrensDiscoveryAcademy.com

Assistant Director
Vadnais Heights

Educational Background:
B.S. in Marketing from Metropolitan State University, with a minor in Interpersonal Communication.

Employed with Children's Discovery Academy since 2008

"The first time I visited Children’s Discovery Academy, I had no idea it would be my future place of employment. During my tour I remember thinking to myself, “This is not what I expected.”  The teachers were so welcoming and friendly. The kids were smiling and engaged. The building was very clean and it smelled good.

A year after that initial visit, I was offered an Assistant Director’s position. I cannot express how thankful I am everyday to have said, “YES!” Children’s Discovery Academy is such a great environment to work in. Everyone genuinely cares and is wonderful to work with.

Since accepting my role at Children’s Discovery Academy, my family has grown! I have two young children who are enrolled at our school. Speaking as a parent, I am thrilled with the quality of care and education my kids are receiving. My kids LOVE their teachers and friends and they are excited to come to school each day. It makes me feel good as a mom knowing my children enjoy Childern's Discovery Academy."

~Kristen

Darci@ChildrensDiscoveryAcademy.com 

Lead Teacher, Pre-Kindergarten Room
Vadnais Heights

Educational Background:
B.A. in Elementary Education with Pre-Primary from Bethel University

Employed with Children's Discovery Academy since 2003

“I have been lucky enough to enjoy my career here at Children’s Discovery Academy since 2003. I can honestly say that I LOVE my job!

As a teacher that has been here all these years, I think my favorite part are the families that have come through my class. I enjoy the personal relationships that have been formed and it’s especially rewarding to hear from them for years after they’ve already gone.

As a parent of a child that has gone through the program, I was always impressed with the amount of knowledge my son came home with daily. I sometimes thought “What else could my child possibly learn when his own mother is a teacher?” But with the fabulous curriculum, there was always something new to learn. He was always safe, well taken care of, and he always enjoyed school.”

~Darci

Michelle@ChildrensDiscoveryAcademy.com 

Lead Teacher, Preschool Room
Vadnais Heights

Educational Background:
B.S. in Early Childhood Studies/Psychology from Metropolitan State University.

Employed with Children's Discovery Academy since 2008

"Teaching preschool is a rewarding career. My favorite moments are watching each child’s excitement as they learn and discover new concepts and ideas. I love to hear from the parents about how happy their son or daughter is at school and how learning experiences at school are shared with them at home. There is nothing better than the feeling I have knowing that I’m making a positive influence in each of my students’ lives."

~Michelle

Lindsay@ChildrensDiscoveryAcademy.com 

Lead Teacher, Toddler Room
Vadnais Heights

Educational Background:
Graduated with a Certificate in Early Childhood Development from Rasmussen College; General Education Courses from Century College.

Employed with Children's Discovery Academy since 2003

"Working exclusively with toddlers since 2003, I have had the opportunity to meet so many wonderful children and families.  Children grow so much during this stage of life and I feel so lucky to be a part of such an important time in their lives.

Working for a family owned company is wonderful because it makes the center feel very welcoming and warm.  I really feel close to the families that attend Children’s Discovery Academy.  It is great to work in such a close partnership with parents and grandparents to ensure their little ones succeed.  Watching that success is the most rewarding part of my career!"

~Lindsay 

Kacy@ChildrensDiscoveryAcademy.com
Lead Teacher, Young Toddler Room
Vadnais Heights

Educational Background:
Child Development Associate Degree (CDA)

 Employed with Children's Discovery Academy since 2012

"I love Children's Discovery Academy for many reasons but being able to build positive relationships with so many great families and educators is the greatest!  It is so heart-warming to watch the children grow and to be a part of the many milestones that they achieve daily.  There is nothing better than the natural reward of the hugs and appreciation that the children show us everyday."

~Kacy

DawnP@ChildrensDiscoveryAcademy.com

Lead Teacher, Infant Room
Vadnais Heights

Educational Background:
Graduated 916 Vo-Tech/Lakewood Community College in Child Development Course

Employed with Children's Discovery Academy since 2001

"All I've ever wanted to be is a mom and raise kids.  In my job, I have been able to help raise so many babies throughout the years.  It's not very often that people can say they love their career.  I can honestly say that I absolutely do LOVE my career!  It gives me such great joy to watch each and every baby grow and learn everyday.  I love to encourage them, teach them and help them accomplish tasks such as sitting, crawling, walking and saying their first words!

I am calm, loving, and I have a positive attitude.  I think these attributes reflect onto the babies as well as other staff in our classroom." 

~Dawn