Today we’d like to introduce you to Gracie Adams.
Hi Gracie, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I have been in childcare as long as I can remember. From babysitting, nannying, and camp counselor, to a childcare center setting once I was 18. At my first center, I learned so much being an Assistant Teacher. I learned all the basics regarding state laws and best guidance practices. That center was also the place where I learned my purpose. I was surrounded by strong women who were even stronger teachers. They loved their job and had a passion for shaping young minds. The only con to that center was the management. The Director at the school was a TYRANT. She used her position only to exploit the power she thought she had. The women who worked there really needed the job and therefore were too afraid to stand up to her. I realized that I wanted to be a director. I wanted to support and respect people, so they would be happy coming into work. I started with schooling and gaining experience. I have learned many lessons as I have gone from assistant teacher, to lead teacher, to head of department, to Assistant Director, and finally Center Director. None of the processes has been easy. This has been the most mentally, physically, and emotionally exhausting adventure I have ever been on. It has absolutely been worth it! At 7 months pregnant, I received my Directors Certificate. All of my work had finally paid off, but now I had another purpose. I took a few months off of work when my daughter, Kimber, was born. I loved soaking in every second with her and was extremely blessed that my husband, Randy, was able to support our family during this time. I knew in my heart that I needed to go back to work. I didn’t want to have as much responsibility as I had when I was a director, so I figured being an Assistant Director would be a good compromise. It has been quite the balancing act between motherhood and having a career. I have been able to find that balance here at Allen Knowledge Beginnings. I have the best mentor in the world, Ms. Dinna Bacordo, and an amazing team that I have the pleasure of working with.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
There have been many struggles along the way. One that has stood out the most to me would be the balance between work and home life. I am a workaholic and put 110% into anything I am doing. I love my job and tend to let work come home a lot. Having my daughter really helped me to put things in perspective. As I have gotten older, I have also learned how to better manage my time and prioritize my life.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am an Assistant Director at a childcare center. I manage around 20 employees along with my Center Director and Program Specialist. Our goal is to create a safe learning environment for children 6 weeks to 12 years old.
