Grace Belcher

Primary Assistant & Office and Licensing Coordinator

What led you to your career in education?

I knew from a pretty early age (we're talking middle school!) that I wanted to work with kids. I just wasn't quite sure in what capacity yet! Over the years, I've worked as a summer camp counselor, babysitter, toddler teacher, nanny, and even spent a short time working in a group home for teenage girls. I think what draws me to working with children is that, at every age and stage, they're constantly learning and discovering something new. There's something SO special about helping a child develop a new skill, make a connection, or discover something about themselves or the world around them. Getting to be part of those little “aha!” moments makes my heart so happy, and it's a big part of what makes this work so meaningful to me

If you could bring back one trend from your childhood, what would it be?

The original Disney movies, specifically the ones directed by Kenny Ortega! Give me the nostalgic Disney Channel magic, the iconic musical numbers, and the choreography that absolutely convinced us we could be professional dancers in our living rooms. I would happily bring that era back!

What’s one thing about working with children that continues to surprise you?

That children born in 2023 are already fully functioning little human beings! But in all seriousness, I'm continually amazed by just how capable children are, even at such a young age. Our students surprise me every day with the things they can do for themselves, the ways they care for their environment, and the kindness they show one another. I love watching them gain confidence and independence when they're given the time, space, and opportunity to try things on their own. They remind me all the time that children are capable of so much more than we sometimes give them credit for!