Early Explorers Learning Academy

Our Teachers

At Early Explorers Learning Academy, we take great pride in our dedicated and passionate team of educators who are committed to providing high-quality early childhood education in a nurturing and engaging environment.

Meet One of Our Program Directors & Owners: Kawashia McDonald

Kawashia McDonald, one of the founders and program directors of Early Explorers Learning Academy, brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for early childhood education. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood and Family Education and has dedicated her career to fostering the growth and development of young learners.

With five years of experience at St. Luke’s Preschool in Jackson, MS, Kawashia developed a strong foundation in early childhood best practices, emphasizing play-based learning, social-emotional development, and individualized instruction. She then continued her journey at Jackson Prep Lower School for two years, where she further refined her skills in creating dynamic, student-centered learning environments.

As a leader of Early Explorers Learning Academy, Kawashia is committed to creating a warm, inclusive, and stimulating atmosphere where children feel safe, supported, and excited to learn. She believes in partnering with families, recognizing that strong relationships between educators and parents are key to a child’s success. Her vision is to inspire a love for learning, nurture each child’s unique potential, and prepare them for a bright future.

Under Kawashia’s leadership, our team of educators is carefully selected for their expertise, dedication, and genuine love for teaching young children. Together, we are committed to providing exceptional early childhood education that lays the foundation for lifelong learning.

Philosophy

At Early Explorers Learning Academy, we believe that every child is a unique individual who thrives in a nurturing, stimulating, and inclusive environment. Our philosophy is rooted in fostering a love for learning through play-based exploration, meaningful relationships, and a strong foundation in social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development.

Core Beliefs:

1.  Play as Learning

We embrace play as the primary way children learn and make sense of the world. Through hands-on experiences, open-ended materials, and child-led exploration, we encourage creativity, problem-solving, and curiosity.

2.  A Nurturing and Inclusive Environment

Every child deserves to feel safe, valued, and respected. We cultivate an atmosphere of warmth, acceptance, and belonging, ensuring that each child’s unique background, culture, and abilities are celebrated.

3.  Social and Emotional Development

We prioritize emotional well-being by fostering strong relationships, teaching empathy, and guiding children in developing self-regulation and conflict resolution skills. Our educators model kindness, respect, and cooperation, helping children build a foundation for lifelong success.

4.  Partnership with Families

We recognize parents and caregivers as a child’s first teachers. By fostering open communication and collaboration, we create a supportive community where families and educators work together to meet each child’s needs.

5.  A Love for Lifelong Learning

We encourage curiosity, independence, and a growth mindset. Our engaging curriculum balances structured activities with free exploration, allowing children to develop critical thinking skills, confidence, and a passion for learning.

6.  Respect for Nature and the Environment

We believe in outdoor exploration and the importance of connecting with nature. By providing opportunities for outdoor play and environmental awareness, we help children develop a sense of wonder and responsibility for the world around them.

At Early Explorers Learning Academy, we are committed to nurturing happy, confident, and capable learners in a supportive and enriching environment.

Location

39211

About our program

At Early Explorers Learning Academy in Jackson, MS we deliver high-quality, affordable childcare that fosters the holistic development of each child. Our focus on school readiness, nurturing care, and social development sets us apart. Through personalized care and educational experiences, we specialize in guiding early childhood growth, while promoting a love of learning and a foundation for lifelong success.

Admissions

Join the Early Explorers Learning Academy community in three easy steps:

1. Explore our website We’ve provided information about our philosophies and offerings to help you decide if our program may be right for your family.
2. Tour our program Come see what makes Early Explorers Learning Academy unique. If we are currently hosting tours, you can request or schedule a tour at the top of this page. If we are not currently hosting tours, you’ll see a “Request Info” button at the top of this page; if you submit your information using this button, we will notify you when we start host tours again in the future.
3. Submit an Enrollment Application If you’re interested in enrolling, submit an application by selecting Apply to enroll. If this option if not available, you can message the program director. Please do not apply to enroll until you have set up a tour and visited the program.