About Growing Great Learners
Growing Great Learners was started in 2011 by a pair of best friends looking to find a way to start their own business and incorporate what they love to do most. With endless years of experience working with children in all different fashions, they knew childcare was the field for them! Caring for children, while teaching important educational and life skills in a fun and safe environment was the answer to this duo's calling.
Kelli Colipano and Melissa Christensen spent 3 successful years running a “Certified In-Home Daycare” in Northeast Portland. In early 2014, they decided it was time to expand and moved into a bigger facility to open a small “Center-Based Daycare and Preschool” where Growing Great Learners has operated successfully for the last 10 years!
In 2020, Kelli decided it was time to set sail to the beautiful island of Oahu with her husband and kids for new adventures living the island life. Melissa then became sole owner of Growing Great Learners.
During the midst of all the transitions and crazy curve balls the past 3 years has thrown us, Melissa was able to find a trusted partner in Emilee Palaniuk! Emilee is now the acting on-site Director and has just recently stepped into the Co-Director position with Melissa. Emilee is the go-to lady at GGL. She runs the day to day and keeps us going with her positive attitude!
With a staff of around 20 amazing, selfless, loving Teachers and around 80 students, GGL is a lively, community-based small Daycare Center in Southeast Portland. As a collective group we all strive to teach and care for the children in our care and develop trusting, loving relationships with all of our families.
Our Philosophy
Growing Great Learners takes pride in making learning exciting for kids. We strive to have a safe & stimulating environment that will help contribute to the successful growth and opportunities to explore with peers and other adults. We have an all inclusive program including kids with identified disabilities and special learning and developmental needs. Children are encouraged to develop a positive self image and learn inner control to cooperate with peers and caregivers. We want to increase the confidence of children to grow physically, creatively, emotionally and socially. We strive to make your child’s time here the best experience for them as well as you. We value respect and promote kindness, we have a zero bullying tolerance and will offer a safe and nurturing environment so that each child feels respect as a valued individual.
Health & Safety
The health and safety of your child is our top priority. We maintain a clean and hygienic environment, and follow strict protocols for sanitation and disinfection. Our staff is trained in First Aid/CPR, and all other required trainings to ensure the safety of your children. We have emergency procedures in place to ensure the well-being of your child in case of an accident or illness. We also have a secure access system to ensure that only authorized persons can enter the premises.
