Welcome!
I want to start by saying thank you for the opportunity to share my vision of early care and education with you. It has been a long-time dream of mine to open an early childhood center. I am committed to providing families with an environment where children receive meaningful care and develop a lifelong love for learning.
As a mom of two boys, I know what a treasure children are! I want your children to be excited to come to school - to explore, play, and enjoy learning - and for you to feel confident in the care and education they receive while you're away. Our building is intentionally set up to look more like a lodge home and thus feel more comfortable. I want to highlight that I value a learning environment that incorporates music, physical movement, character development, and community service.
I graduated from Portland State University with a degree in Marketing Management, but not long after working in marketing research, I missed pouring into the lives of children. I've had the opportunity to work on the administrative side of early childhood and elementary education programs for 20 years now. I can’t express enough how grateful I am to own and operate Learning Lodge West.
My hope is that you can hear my passion for our youngest learners. I look forward to getting to know you and your family.
Jacinda
Who We Are
We have a blended teaching philosophy that emphasizes a rich learning environment where children are encouraged to explore and play. We believe teacher-directed academic instruction is just as important as self-directed exploration as our students learn school readiness, self-help skills, and character development.
We offer our preschool (2-4 years) and pre-kindergarten students (4–5 years) additional enrichment with a weekly formal social-emotional class, music class, Spanish, and PE that includes Yoga and Zumba. Our school age students have homework support, snack and enriching after school activities. During the summer, we transition to Summer Camp for everyone with weekly themes, water play and field trips for our older students.
We want parents and teachers to work hand-in-hand to prepare students to be life-long learners and gain valuable skills to meet life’s challenges. It’s our goal to provide high-quality care and early education in an atmosphere of love and respect that fosters growth. We view each learner as a whole child, striving to meet their intellectual, emotional, social, and physical needs. Our teachers are committed to educational goals of excellence provided in a safe and loving environment.
Our Team
Kristen Schwartz Curriculum Director
Hello! I'm Ms. Kristen. Each day teaching should be intentional and learning should be an exciting experience. I love using my background in education and children’s ministry to make sure our goals are age appropriate in every classroom. Welcome to our school!
Erica Cameron Operations Director
Hello! I’m Ms. Erica. I’ve worked in child care and preschool settings for over 15 years and love being a part of a child’s first education experience. We look forward to meeting you.
Cyleigh Pickering Operations Coordinator
Hello! I'm Ms. Cyleigh. The bond created with students is like no other. I love watching them achieve their goals and overcome obstacles. I have been part of Learning Lodge West for 4 years and I am glad to assist in this way. We are so happy you’re here.
Aubrey Beene Director in Training
Hello! I'm Ms. Aubrey. Every day is a fresh start to help a child grow and reach their full potential. Early education sets the foundation for a child's future learning. My goal is to create a positive learning environment for all.