MANCHESTER LEARNING CENTER

Hello, my name is Polly Devine. I am the Director of The Learning Center Manchester, CT. I have worked here for almost 15 years. I started in the South Windsor, CT facility working for 1 year in the infant room. I continued with this same group of children through their Toddler years. I then became Director of our South Windsor facilities for 5 years. I transferred to our Manchester center in 2005.

I graduated from Keene State College in 1994 earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology and an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education. After graduating, I was employed at Family Services of Greater Waterbury Therapeutic Child and Family Center. I worked in the Under Three program and the Preschool program before becoming Assistant Director for 3 years.

At that point, I started a family and became the mom of three wonderful children. My oldest is 15 and my twins are 9. All three of my children have grown up enrolled in our Learning Center programs. They have benefited from the many experiences they have had with the staff and children as they learned and matured.

My favorite times are spent camping, hiking, going to the beach, biking, or walking about. Being outdoors, working with children, and having an active life with my children, family, and friends are all important aspects of my life.

From my studies in Early Childhood Education, teachers who instilled a passion in me, and my childhood experiences, I continue on the road I am on today; caring about the welfare of children, enjoying my interactions with them, and helping each child become the best he or she can be.

Hello, my name is Janet Rowe. I am the site supervisor for our Manchester facility and have been with The Learning Center for almost 11 years. I began working as a classroom teacher with infants and toddlers and took on the responsibility of site supervisor in Manchester 2 years ago.

My background started with college classes for management and marketing however, my focus shifted to an interest in education. I was bringing my children to daycare and realized that working with children and their families really appealed to me. I proceeded by taking several courses in Early Childhood Education at Goodwin College. I now have my CT Head Teacher certification. This was a great decision as I learned that I love working with children, their inquisitive attitudes and loads of energy make them a joy to be around. In addition to the courses I have taken I am also first aid and CPR certified. As a member of The Learning Center management team I am also continuing to gain knowledge of the field through trainings and workshops.

I have two wonderful children of my own, ages 20 and 26 as well as two adorable grandchildren ages 3 months and 3 years. My family is very important to me and I would climb mountains to help them. When I am not with my family I enjoy reading, writing, and cooking.

I love the interactions I have not only with the children but the parents as well. I have been told repeatedly that I am a people person and I believe that to be true. I look forward to working with all of the children and families associated with The Learning Center.