Mandy Palmer
Co-Founder/Teacher/Pedagogical Coordinator
While attending Auburn University, I took a part time job at a daycare center and almost immediately knew that that was what I wanted to do with my life—nurture and support the very youngest people in our world. I believe it is a person’s childhood that shapes who they are and that one of the most important factors in a child’s life is their family dynamic. For this reason I chose to get my degree in Family and Child Development.
The summer after I graduated, I moved to Atlanta in search of a school that gave more respect to children and their families. At Clifton Child Care Center I was introduced to the Reggio Emilia Approach. I was so excited to find this approach that embraced children as they did and understood their capabilities. I also enjoyed the camaraderie and collaboration involved in this approach—getting different perspectives from each other and working together towards a common goal.
A couple of years later I discovered the Grant Park Cooperative Preschool and worked there for ten years. During this time I had the opportunity to take on many different leadership roles and attend three study tours in Reggio Emilia, Italy.
When I’m not working I enjoy being with my husband James and my five year old son Leo. I also love camping, traveling, reading and gathering with friends and family.
