Gary's Little Blessings Learning Academy and Childcare Center

Our Teachers

Melissa Casaus is a New Mexico native, lifelong caregiver, educator at heart, and the founder of Gary’s Little Blessings Learning Center and Childcare, which she operates alongside her husband, Ramon. Raised in Las Vegas, New Mexico, Melissa earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from New Mexico Highlands University before making Albuquerque her home in 2004. After moving, she continued her education and earned dual licensure in general and special education, Pre K through 12th grade.

In 2012, Melissa’s life changed forever when her son, Gary, survived a devastating accident that left him requiring the use of a wheelchair and around the clock care. Melissa remained by his side for more than a year in the hospital, advocating for him, learning his medical needs, and fighting for his chance to live. When they finally returned home, Melissa was determined to give Gary the comfort, accessibility, and independence he deserved. Unable to find a home that met his needs, she built one herself—complete with accessible living spaces, a therapy room, and thoughtful features designed around his daily care.

Gary passed away only seven months after the home was completed. In the years that followed, Melissa searched for a way to honor her son’s strength, spirit, and his motto to NEVER GIVE UP. She wanted to bring purpose and joy back into the home she had built for him. With a lifelong passion for caring for others, she found that purpose in children. Today, Melissa along with her husband Ramon operate Gary’s Little Blessings Learning Center and Childcare in the very home created for Gary. What was once built out of a mother’s love has become a place filled with learning, laughter, and new memories. Melissa believes Gary gave her his blessing to begin this journey, inspiring the name of the center and the heart behind its mission. For Melissa, Gary’s Little Blessings is more than a childcare program—it is a continuation of her son’s legacy. Every child who enters the home is welcomed, cared for, and treasured as one of Gary’s Little Blessings.

Our staff comes from diverse backgrounds and includes parents who have raised children of their own. The learning center was established to honor Gary, the blessing behind our opening. Gary was one of our children who we tragically lost in 2020. We are now sharing his home to care for others, and our center will be known as “Gary’s Little Blessings.”

It will be our honor to care for your little blessings, welcoming them with open arms. They will be treated with the utmost kindness, compassion, and love! 💝

Philosophy

At Gary’s Litle Blessings, we offer a warm, play‑based early learning environment where children explore, create, and grow through hands‑on experiences. Our program blends the best of Reggio‑inspired project work, Montessori‑style independence, daily STEAM exploration, and nature‑based discovery. Infants and toddlers receive gentle, relationship‑centered care inspired by RIE principles, supporting secure attachment and free movement. We believe children learn best when they feel safe, respected, and inspired. Our teachers guide learning with intention and curiosity, creating beautiful spaces that encourage problem‑solving, collaboration, and joyful play. Families are valued partners in our community, and each child’s culture, language, and individuality are honored every day. At Gary’s Litle Blessings, childhood is celebrated, curiosity is encouraged, and learning feels like joy.

Location

Nestled in the heart of Albuquerque’s North Valley, our center sits in a place that feels connected, welcoming, and easy for families to reach. We’re surrounded by several neighborhood schools, making transitions smooth for parents with children of different ages. City buses stop just steps from our door — and the public bus even makes after‑school stops right on our street — giving families flexible, reliable transportation options. We’re also within walking distance of the Rail Runner, opening the door to adventure, convenience, and community connection. A beautiful local park is just around the corner, giving our children space to explore nature, breathe fresh air, and enjoy outdoor play. Whether you’re coming from the east or west side of town, our location makes daily routines simple. Families love that we’re tucked into the North Valley — a place full of culture, history, and heart — while still being incredibly easy to get to. It’s a spot that feels safe, rooted, and part of the neighborhood, and we’re proud to call it home.

About our program

Gary’s Little Blessings Learning Center and Childcare in Albuquerque offers personalized care that fosters a nurturing atmosphere for children to thrive. Through engaging hands-on activities, our program empowers students to become independent learners. We cater to children with unique educational needs, providing tailored support to help every child reach their full potential.

Admissions

Join the Gary’s Little Blessings Learning Academy and Childcare Center community in three easy steps:

1. Explore our website—

We have 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 Gary’s Little Blessings Learning Center and Childcare 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.