ABOUT US

We, the Owners of The Growing Tree Children’s Academy are both Moms of young children wanting to fill a need for the parents of today needing a day care facility, but wanting a true home away from home atmosphere.  The design and color choices of the exterior and interior of the building have been carefully researched and chosen to allow the children to feel creative, safe and secure without limiting their curiosities. 

Traci Cantin, Co-Owner

I am a married mom of 2 boys and a girl born in 2009. I graduated from Kean University with a degree in Sociology and Child Psychology.  I was previously the Director at The Goddard School dedicating ten years to early child development.  Knowing the needs and wants of you and your child is my forte!

Lauren Gorski, Co-Owner

I am a married mom with 1 child. My background in managerial and finance experience allows me the insight I need to run the day in and day out administration of our schools.

Always energetic and ready to help out with whatever is needed, you can always talk to either of us for anything.  Being Moms ourselves, we understand your needs and wants for your children, they’re the same we have for ours!

Nicole Scalzo, Assistant Director of Holmdel

I have been working in the childcare field since I was a teenager.  I have 2 wonderful boys at home  that keep me very busy. I became the assistant director of The Growing Tree Children's Academy in January 2008. Here at the school I love spending time with your children and helping you the parent with any questions or concerns you may have. My previous  background comes from The Goddard School and Kiddie Academy, where I was an assistant director and also worked with children of various ages as a teacher. I am currently in school working on my BA in Psychology.

Karen Lockburner,  Director of Wall

I am a mom of 3 young children, so I know how busy life can get!  My background has been spent in childcare most of my life, it is my passion! I worked for 10 years at Bright Beginnings Preschool, where I taught Pre-K and was also an assistant in the office supervising both before and after care.  After they closed down I went to work at The Goddard School for 4 years.  At Goddard I worked with children ranging in age from 6 weeks through 6 years. It was so much fun to work with various age groups getting to know all the children and parents in the school. My educational background is from The College of Saint Elizabeth, where I have a BA in both Early Education and Art.  I also am certified to teach ESL (English as a Second Language) too.  I am looking forward to getting to know you and your children. Anything you need please feel free to drop by my office or call! I am here to help you!

Robin Weingartner, Assistant Director of Wall

I am married a mom of 1 little girl named Shelby. I started working at The Growing Tree on September 8, 2009. I started as an Assistant Teacher of the Baby Buds and then was promoted to Head Teacher of the Little Acorns. I am now Assistant Director. I  have been working with children since the age of fifteen. My schedule is 6:30 to 3:30 everyday. Please feel free to stop in  the office or call at any time if you have any questions or concerns.