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ManagementPatrick Thornton, Director
After graduation I taught preschool in Buckingham, and then moved to Albermarle County where I worked as a teacher’s assistant for first grade and kindergarten, taught math to 3rd, 4th, and 5th grades and after school programs for 1st and 2nd grades. I loved working with children of all ages, but it is the early years I feel are so very critical to developing a foundation of confidence, empathy, and love of learning. A quality preschool program can have a profoundly positive effect on children and I want to be a part of that very important work. Mida Shelton, Assistant Director
I am the proud parent of one daughter. I am originally from Mecklenburg County and part of a large family of ten: five sisters and two brothers. I moved to Fluvanna where I attended school. After graduation I went to St. Paul’s College in Lawrenceville, where I obtained my BS degree in Elementary Education. I have worked in childcare for about twenty years, over half of those here at U.Va. I have a passion for children which includes working with them, building their self-confidence, watching them grow and giving them their start in education. One particular thing I heard about working with children that has always stuck with me is this: “Children are beautiful, unique individuals.” No two children are the same and each one is special in their own way. Outside of work I am dedicated to my church. I love to read, draw and write poetry. One of the biggest things I now enjoy is spending time with my family. |
I was a Supply Officer in the Navy for twenty years and a business consultant for a few years after that. My first and only child was born in October of
2000 and he rocked my world. I found myself drawn to the innocence, and needs of young children. I returned to graduate school at Longwood University where I received my MS in Elementary Education and my Virginia Postgraduate teacher’s license.