Curiosity First Early Education Program

Our Teachers

Our teachers and aides are highly qualified and passionate about providing the early education experience for each child in our program.

Ms. Sharonda - Director, I have about 13 years of experience in early education, including four years as a teacher’s assistant and four years as a Preschool Teacher. I received my associates degree in Child Development from Grand Rapids Community College. I went on to obtain a bachelor’s degree in Public and Non-profit Administration with a focus in community development at Grand Valley State University. I started this program because I wanted to create a space where children are free to learn and explore without being pressured to “get ready” for the next stage of life. I believe childhood should be celebrated and children should be encouraged to enjoy each moment as it happens.

My program was built to provide children with a nurturing literacy rich environment where they can build a foundation of emotional and intellectual strength. I support children’s social, emotional, physical, language, and cognitive developmental needs and provide them with the opportunity to become independent critical thinkers.

Ms. Celia - Preschool Teacher, I earned my bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education in Mexico, my home country. I have worked as both a kindergarten teacher and—for many years—in daycare centers, in both Mexico and here in the USA.

My passion lies in being with children and learning from them, guiding their learning in a way that is simple, fun, and play-based. My first language is Spanish, so I ask for your patience regarding my accent. I look forward to seeing you soon, and thank you for the opportunity to spend time with the little ones.

Ms. Mallory - Preschool Aide, Hi everyone! I’m Ms Mal! I grew up on the East side of Detroit and I went to Ferris State University to get my associate degree in early childhood and social work! I love to read books, I love Bike rides, and I love dogs. Fun Fact I have a twin brother. His name is Owen. We both were adopted! My twin brother is special needs.

I was a paraprofessional for 2 years in a public school working with autistic students. Being a teacher assistant can leave joy in the students and a positive impression that can stay a lifetime!

Ms. Kendra - Infant/Toddler Aide, I have twenty-two years of lived experience in assisting an individual who falls on the Autistic Spectrum. I possess five years of substitute teaching in various school districts along the lake shore of West Michigan. On my last substituting assignment I found myself in the role of a Special Educational Paraprofessional where I worked with kindergarteners and first graders in one of the ASD class rooms. There I fell in love with aiding in the growth of unique students that did not learn the way others did in this cookie cutter world.

I quit subbing and was hired full time to be an ASD/Special Education Paraprofessional for five years. I contributed to the lives of amazing unique learners; but I felt that pre-school and early child care/learning would utilize my desire to teach, learn and grow professionally while positively impacting the lives of the children in my care.

My passion, desire to learn and grow has brought me to the amazing opportunity to be a part of the team at Curiosity First Early Education Program.

Thank you so very much for trusting us with the education and care of your child/children.

Philosophy

The first five years are the most important period in human development. During this time children learn that the world is a safe and secure place, the people in their world can be trusted, and life is an adventure worth trekking through. All adults have an obligation to ensure children are supported through these critical years with warmth and understanding. Curiosity First employs highly qualified individuals to provide children with an educational experience that respects each child’s developmental needs.

To meet those needs we provide a variety of natural and interesting materials that support growth and development. These materials are designed to intrigue, challenge, and engage young children. We consider the natural world a critical part of the learning environment and work to extend the children’s learning beyond the four walls of the classroom.

Our teaching strategies center the interest and developmental capacity of each child. We are a child-led and child-focused learning center. Our teachers implement a curriculum that is rooted in a comprehensive understanding of child development and supported by peer reviewed research. Our curriculum provides a clear roadmap for success but is malleable enough to support individualized instruction.

Finally, we believe that a successful early childhood education can only be achieved with active family involvement. Supportive partnerships between educators and family members create a sense of security for the child. Children learn the importance of education when family members become involved in the program by volunteering, attending conferences and events, or participating in school activities.

Location

Our center is located in a lovely residential neighborhood in NE Grand Rapids. We are right across the street from Briggs Park! Our students take daily walks to the playground and around the neighborhood. We are close to public and private elementary schools and just 9 minutes from downtown Grand Rapids.

About our program

At Curiosity First in Grand Rapids, children thrive in a personalized setting where they grow intellectually and physically. Our unique approach emphasizes interactive learning experiences that foster cognitive and motor skills. Specializing in nurturing early development, we prioritize hands-on engagement for every child’s educational journey.