All Aboard the Learning Train!
At a recent Learning Train Academy site visit, SVP Portland Partners and staff were welcomed into a joyful and nurturing space by Ashley Rollins and Erica Battles, two inspiring leaders and social entrepreneurs. Learning Train Academy, our newest Community Partner, is a child development center that narrows the racial achievement gap for Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) children ages 6 weeks to 13 years from working-class and historically-excluded families. They use an innovative play-based learning model to educate children in all areas of academic performance.
“I am impressed with how resourceful and innovative Ashley and Erica are,” remarked SVP Partner Doug Adler. “Their attention to detail in the design of the spaces is so thoughtful.”
At the end of the tour, everyone sat together at a table and created watercolor art as examples for the children at Learning Train’s forthcoming opening. It offered the SVP visitors a chance to experience what it might be like to be a student, engage in conversation, and have a little fun! It also allowed Ashley and Erica to share a bit more about their shared passion for early childhood education.
“The importance of education has been ingrained into my psyche from before I was born and it is the foundation of who I am,” Ashley reflects. “Both my mother and father are college graduates and beyond that both my maternal grandparents are as well. My educational journey started at a Montessori preschool. To this day I subscribe to the ‘follow your interest’ approach to learning that is characteristic of a Montessori classroom.”
Ashley earned her Master’s degree in teaching and worked as a kindergarten teacher, but she says, “working at the child development center when I was an undergraduate at the University of Oregon showed me that what you do for work can bring you joy and can be meaningful. I also learned the importance of having highly-qualified and trained teachers.”
Erica loves working with children, has years of experience as an early childhood educator, and is currently pursuing a degree in Early Childhood Education. “Overcoming personal hardships and an upbringing with significant challenges greatly influenced my dream of opening a childcare and preschool program to help families in need,” says Erica. “Growing up in an underprivileged community gives me firsthand knowledge of what is truly needed.”
While Erica and Ashley have different experiences and perspectives, their shared dedication to early childhood education and creating a nurturing space for children led them to team up to open Learning Train Academy. “It is my life’s purpose to give my kids and the kids in my care all the opportunities afforded to me, and more,” says Ashley. “I want all children to learn a second language. I want all children to be exposed to the arts, dance, and music. I want all children to learn through play. I want all children to follow their interests to find their life’s passion.” Erica feels strongly that, “if we reach one, we can teach many generations to follow.”
We look forward to working with Ashley and Erica as Learning Train Academy expands their daycare and preschool services in the Portland-Vancouver area!
