Exquisite Kids Learning Academy,LLC

Our Teachers

Highly Qualified Educators Credentialed Directors CPR and First Aid Certified 24/hr. surveillance CLASS Certified Director

Meet your EKLA owner and Executive Director, Alicia Tiggs Merritt: Greetings All,

I’m Alicia Tiggs Merritt, born and raised in the heart of the Mississippi Delta.

After an enriching education at Mississippi Valley State University in the areas of Speech Communication, Theater, and Broadcasting, I pursued a degree in Speech Pathology at Delta State University in the areas of Speech & Hearing Sciences and Special Education- during which my passion for Literacy and technology-based intervention strategies continued to blossom. 
While serving as a Speech Therapist for Mound Bayou Public Schools, I became well known for my creativity in integrating technology into various types of communication intervention. I served as a team member for three different sites within the district, I.T. Montgomery Elementary, John F. Kennedy Memorial High School, and Billy J. McCain Head Start Center.

I also provided services for First Steps Early Intervention Program in the area of Speech & Language and developmental disabilities.

I strive to always continue to broaden my role in the education setting as I continue to strive to become a more skilled catalyst for change by implementing ideas and theories.
Being relevant to the needs of school-age children and adolescents requires knowledge of curricular standards and the ability to assess skills that are important to succeed in school and life.
 As a 2012 graduate of University of New England,  Master of Education in Inclusion Education and current Walden University Early Childhood Education Doctoral degree scholar, I plan to continue to utilize research-based teaching and assessment techniques for identifying gaps and intervention techniques for helping students and educators to fill those gaps.

Bonus info: From the classroom to the salon setting, I went from aspiration to inspiration, as a 2015 Blue Cliff College distinguished scholar and graduate by following my dream to be the change I wanted to see in the cosmetology industry. ​In 2018, it was with esteemed pleasure that I became the owner of Exquisite Styles Salon & Boutique- a business built on the principles of great service, exquisite styles, and the epitome of professionalism- all in a friendly and inviting atmosphere where each guest receives an exquisite experience. This business has been acknowledged among the highest nominations for the Sun Herald People’s Choice Awards.

Additionally, I am a published author, owner of Exquisite Events by A. T. Merritt, Powerful Purpose Podcast host, and founder of Powerful Purpose Outreach Ministries, Inc.

After a rewarding career with Mississippi State University, as an Education Leader, from 2020-2023, I realized that time was passing, and my youngest child was growing up before my eyes. (She was a newborn when I started). This sparked the initiative to become more available to the simple-yet memorable moments such as seeing the kids off to school in the mornings. These among other things, coupled with several parents requesting my suggestions for quality childcare, and wanting to implement a unique approach to learning and development- I wanted to create an opportunity which catered to the needs of each exquisitely and uniquely created child. Answering the call, Exquisite Kids Learning Academy, LLC was created as an in-home center located in the office of my home. Soon after, the word of EKLA’s nurturing environment, passion, and professionalism spread, it was clear of the next step- our new location! We look forward to serving your family.

Testimonials

“I absolutely love Mrs.Merritt!! At first I was a little nervous about trying another daycare due to past experiences, but the same day I toured her house to see if it might be a good fit for my family my son instantly felt right at home.! This Daycare is by far the most caring and loving HOME! My son is saying so many words and becoming brighter each and every day. Mrs.Merritt brings such an abundance of happiness to my family!!” - Chloe L.

“Exquisite Kids Learning Academy is endowed with love, care, high level curriculum. Learning is innovative and fun with a welcoming environment and wonderful teachers. Get a quote today, your investment will strengthen the learning environment and capacity for your child!!”- Gloria M.

“Overall I absolutely love this childcare facility. The staff is wonderful and makes you feel like family.”- Lapreshia L.

Philosophy

We believe each child was uniquely and exquisitely created- and their learning and development experience should reflect this. Not only do we offer exclusive (extremely small class sizes), enriching, and individualized learning & development program, but we also invite you for an Exquisite Experience for the whole family! This is the EKLA way!

-Play dates -Parents Night Out -Drop-ins -Tutoring -Exquisite Kids Empowerment and The Arts Club -Study & Styling Haircare Sessions -Date Night Setup-with childcare & catering or private chef! -Ladies night-with childcare! -Online gift shop

Location

What’s so great about this location?

What began as an In-Home Preschool & Learning Center in Gulfport, MS, with 2 classrooms- has blossomed into a uniquely designed center. Yes, we have officially moved into a location! EKLA is equipped with 11+ rooms including small classroom ratios for a truly engaging learning experience. We have 7 learning, development, and 1-on- 1 rooms; 3 restrooms, kitchen, commercially fenced playground-without huge equipment which allows active engagement with children and teachers during outside time. We also provide surveillance with regular officer patrol units and our center is even equipped with a sprinkler system. We are nestled within a wonderful and safe business community among therapy offices, a dentist, a church, and more. We offer a spacious parking lot with ease of access- from Highway 49 in the Orange Grove area making your commute a breeze. Additionally, we are within minutes of shopping centers, restaurants, and schools!

About our program

We believe one size does not fit all. At EKLA we are dedicated to providing the most exquisite experience- tailored with each child and family in mind. We are a preschool and childcare center with passion, professionalism, pride, purpose, and a promise to foster love and unique learning and development plans exclusively for your exquisitely created child in mind.

We implement the Mississippi Beginnings curriculum as well as a STEM program and a social emotional skills curriculum, and an individualized learning plan for each exquisite-from newborn to pre-k to promote each child’s Powerful Purpose!

Admissions

First, we will schedule a tour of the facility, discuss our philosophy, routines, and more. Next, if we are the best fit for your family, we will begin the enrollment process and establish a start date for your exquisite kid! Finally, we will welcome you to the EKLA Family. We will establish rapport which includes ongoing communication and collaboration to ensure your child’s success.