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OUR STORY

Led by the desire to offer a complete childcare package that seamlessly blends structure, socialization, and nurturing care, we decided to build Growing Minds Academy. As parents, we found ourselves yearning for an educational environment that nurtured curiosity, celebrated individuality, and embraced the joy of discovery.

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The inception of Growing Minds Academy was sparked by the precious moments spent guiding our own little ones through the wonders of early childhood. Fueled by the belief that education should be a holistic, personalized journey, we embarked on a mission to create an academy that transcends traditional models of schooling.

OUR TEAM

Danielle Leist

Co-director

Meet Danielle, our creative co-director and homeowner. She resides with her husband, son, and lovable Goldendoodle. Danielle holds an undergraduate degree in secondary education with a concentration in English, along with a master's in childhood education and special education. She finds joy in interior design, outdoor walks, and quality time with loved ones. Danielle opened Growing Minds to provide her son and other children with a nurturing childcare experience. From the space's functionality to the attentive care and development-focused curriculum, she envisions a childcare setting that seamlessly combines the warmth of at-home care with the structure of a facility. In collaboration with Jamie, their close friendship evolved into turning their dream of providing the best for children, both their own and beyond, into a reality.

Jamie Torns 

Co-director

Meet Jamie, our caring co-director and mom of two girls! Living in Norwalk with her husband, daughters & crazy dog, Jamie holds a degree in finance and an MBA in analytics. At Growing Minds Academy, she aspires to create an enhanced educational experience for the next generation—one that fosters adventure, cultivates intrigue, encourages exploration, and offers hands-on learning. As she explored the various childcare options available for her children, she saw a gap in the types of educational opportunities being offered, leading her to join Danielle in building Growing Minds Academy together. Her aim is to provide a dynamic and engaging environment where children can flourish and grow into well-rounded individuals, inspired by their own creativity. Jamie brings that same desire for creativity and growth to her own life as she enjoys everything from cooking and crafts to exploring outdoor adventures and playing competitive soccer. 

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Miranda Conolley

Lead Teacher

I'm Miranda Connolly. I'm 23 years old and a graduate from the University of Connecticut. I'm an avid reader and a food lover. I also have two adorable guineapigs, one is named Fredrick and the other is named Belle!

 

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Kids Playing with Lego
Kids Playing with Lego

Tuition

Full-time  

3 days  

2 days 


Sign up for our waitlist for more information.

We are accepting new students starting June 1, 2024.

$2,150/month

$1,858/month

$1,486/month

AcademicCalendar

We close for all major federal holidays and have two scheduled school breaks:

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  • Aug. 5th - 9th

  • Dec. 23rd - Jan. 2nd

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ADDRESS

95 Malibu Road

Stamford, CT 06903

CONTACT

BUSINESS HOURS

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

8:00 am – 5:00 pm

8:00 am – 5:00 pm

8:00 am – 5:00 pm

8:00 am – 5:00 pm

8:00 am – 5:00 pm

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