Jessica Beckwith
Executive Director

My journey in Early Childhood Education started back in 2006 when I first stepped into a preschool classroom and instantly fell in love with the energy and enthusiasm of the young learners. Through my years of teaching and my continued education and training, I have become particularly passionate about Social and Emotional Learning (SEL), which has become an essential component of early childhood education in recent years. I have learned how to support children in developing important skills such as self-awareness, self-regulation, empathy, and relationship-building. By fostering these skills, we can help children become confident, resilient, and compassionate individuals who are equipped to navigate the social and emotional challenges of life.
 

In addition to my focus on SEL, I am also a strong advocate for Nature-Based Education (NBE). I believe that the natural world provides a rich and stimulating learning environment for young children, allowing them to explore, discover, and connect with the world around them in meaningful ways. Through NBE, children can develop a deep sense of wonder and appreciation for the natural world, while also learning important skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and creativity. By integrating nature-based experiences into our curriculum, we can help children develop a strong connection to the environment and a lifelong love of learning.
 

As a Preschool Director, I am committed to providing high-quality, developmentally-appropriate education that supports the growth and well-being of every child in our care. By focusing on each child’s unique self and path, we are able to create an individualized nurturing and engaging learning environment.

 

We at Hazelwood look forward to connecting with you and growing this community we have created here!