About Us
Our Experience
Leigh Ann Downie-Economy is a seasoned professional in early childhood education, currently serving as the Early Learning Center Director at Immanuel Living. With over three decades of experience since 1989, she brings a wealth of expertise and a deep passion for fostering young minds. Leigh Ann holds a Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Studies, providing her with advanced knowledge and skills in the field of education. Leigh Ann is leading Growing Roots Early Learning Center where she has developed a team of skilled educators who share her vision for nurturing and supporting the development of every child under their care.
Tara Mandarino
Director of Somers Location
Tara is the Director of the GRELC Somers location and is currently completing a Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Studies from Walden University. Outside of work, she enjoys quality time with her 4-year-old son, Wesley, and their two dogs, Finley and Max.
Mackenzie Reitan
Teacher
Mackenzie graduated from the University of Montana in 2019 with a bachelors in psychology. Mackenzie has been working in early childhood education for 6 years and recently became a mom to two twin girls, Kinsley and Lainey. In her free time Mackenzie loves being outdoors enjoying the lake in the summer and the mountain in the winter.
Alaina Jorgenson
Teacher
A Kalispell native, Alaina has dedicated the past 8 years to working in various child care centers across the valley, including managing her own program for 3 years. She recently graduated from FVCC in the spring of 2023 with an AAS in Early Childhood Education. Outside of her professional pursuits, she prioritizes spending quality time with family.
Ashley Bernardo
Teacher
Ashley is an aspiring educator with a passion for special education. Upon graduation, she plans to further her studies in the field of education, aiming to become a dedicated special education teacher. Ashley enjoys the vibrant activities of summer and looks forward to snowboarding during the winter months.
Caitlyn Carlson
Teacher
Caitlyn has over a decade of experience working with children and holds a B.S. in Human Services, along with a minor in Child & Family Studies. She is dedicated to a holistic approach to child and self-care, emphasizing the importance of emotional, social, mental, and physical health and their interconnectedness.
Jeanetta Grilley
Teacher
Jeanetta Grilley is 35 years old and moved to Montana from Arizona in 2014. It was in Montana that she discovered her passion for childcare. She is also a single mother of three beautiful children who are her world. Jeanetta is very excited to start her journey with Growing Roots. She believes she will make a great addition to the team and is eager to learn, grow, and establish a community here.
Kelsi Freeman
Teacher
I have been working in childcare for seven years, gaining extensive experience with infants and young toddlers. Observing and supporting their developmental stages brings me immense joy. In my free time, I enjoy spending quality moments with my friends and family. I also love rafting during the summer and skiing in the winter months.
Lisa Nevidomsky
Teacher
Lisa thrives in her role of working with children of all ages, displaying a genuine passion for engaging them in various activities such as singing, assembling puzzles, and more. Her versatile interests and enthusiasm contribute to creating enjoyable and enriching experiences for the children under her care.
Melanie Lello
Teacher
Over the past several years, Miss Melanie has worked with children of all ages, finding immense joy in watching them learn and grow. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, camping, and spending time on the lake. Melanie is also a devoted mother to her 5-year-old son, with whom she loves spending quality time.
Melissa Cox
Teacher
With several years of hands-on experience in caring for infants and children, Melissa brings a wealth of expertise, complemented by raising four children of her own. She finds immense joy in witnessing children's discovery of new things and teaching them valuable skills. Melissa considers it a privilege to contribute to children's growth and development by being a part of their milestone moments.
Merci Lee
Teacher
Merci is a dedicated professional with two wonderful daughters: Adaya, who is 10 years old, and Zara, who is 18 months old. her family, which includes two cats, one dog, and four fish, they enjoy activities such as swimming, visiting playgrounds, and exploring the library together.
Paige Adkins
Teacher
Paige hails from Memphis, TN, and relocated to the valley three years ago. She is currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Psychology at Northwest University, with the aspiration of counseling children and adolescents who are dealing with trauma and psychosis. Paige enjoys a variety of hobbies, including reading, baking, and caring for her plants, gecko, and fish.
Pamela Cremer
Teacher
Pamela brings a diverse background, having grown up in Mexico before relocating to Montana four years ago. Currently pursuing continued education in Early Childhood Education with a specialization in Special Education, she is passionate about providing inclusive and supportive learning environments. In her leisure time, Pamela relishes the outdoors and indulges in her love for coffee.
Rose VanGilder
Teacher
Rose VanGilder is currently pursuing a degree in Early Childhood Education and has two years of experience working in childcare. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her husband, Keenan, exploring new places, reading books, and playing the piano.
Sarah Smith
Teacher
Miss Sarah brings over a decade of childcare experience to her role, with a passion for fostering exploration and creativity in children. She values curiosity, creativity, fun, and the outdoors, and finds joy in allowing children to discover the world around them. Sarah considers it a privilege to be part of each child's life and is grateful for the opportunity to get to know them.
Tatum Herbold
Teacher
Tatum is a dedicated mother to a two-year-old daughter and prioritizes family time outside of her professional responsibilities. During her personal moments, she finds joy in drawing and reading, activities that nurture her creativity and passion for learning. With a genuine love for working with young children, Tatum brings a nurturing and attentive approach to her role.