Next Chapter of Learning to Grow

A Journey of Growth and Community Support

On August 14, Learning to Grow celebrated the opening of its newest location in Montesano, expanding their childcare facilities in East Grays Harbor County to three: two in Elma and one in Montesano. These three locations collectively offer 228 childcare slots for families. In 2005, when Stephanie and Eric Smith opened their first facility in Elma, they were licensed for just 21 children.

Over the past 20 years, the Smiths have grown from serving 21 children to providing care for 228. This journey has been marked by persistence, creativity, and a deep commitment to meeting the needs of families in the community. The story of Learning to Grow is not just about expansion; it's about the challenges faced and the solutions found along the way.

Initially, the Smiths didn’t choose the best time to start their business. They opened on Halloween, a decision that might not be repeated today. However, they filled all 21 slots immediately, setting the stage for future growth. Over the next decade, they expanded gradually, adding a classroom off the back of their original building and converting the downstairs of their home into a licensed space. At their peak, they served 80 children.

A fire in 2016 destroyed their original building, forcing them to become nomadic as they searched for new locations. Zoning issues in Elma made it difficult to find a suitable site, leading to further challenges. Despite efforts to rezone the area, the plans weren’t approved, pushing the Smiths to think outside the box.

In 2019, a conversation with their pastors led to an innovative solution: co-locating Abundant Life Church and Learning to Grow in the same building. This arrangement allowed them to use each other’s resources effectively. That same year, Learning to Grow Little Oaks opened near Summit Pacific Medical Center in Elma.

The new building broke ground in 2020 but faced delays due to the ongoing pandemic. Still, the city of Montesano reached out with an opportunity to expand. A piece of property on south Sylvia Street, once envisioned by former Mayor Vini Samuel, became a viable option. The Smiths submitted a proposal, which was accepted, marking the beginning of a joint effort between Learning to Grow and the city to secure funding for another project.

Funding came from various sources, including American Rescue Plan funds, Transportation Improvement Board grants, and water funds. Additional support came from the city’s supplemental and capital budgets. Smith emphasized the importance of these funds, noting that they added a significant layer of support for the project.

Learning to Grow received a $1 million grant through the Washington State Department of Commerce’s Early Learning Facilities Fund. This grant required a 3:1 match, prompting the Smiths to raise additional funds. Their creative partnership with the city, where they own the building and lease the land, also played a crucial role in making the project feasible.

The lease agreement includes a requirement that Learning to Grow provide childcare for 10 years, though Smith believes this will extend far beyond that. It also stipulates that if the building is sold, the city must approve the sale.

Community and legislative support from partners such as school districts, Summit Pacific, and Greater Grays Harbor, Inc., was essential. Former Mayor Vini Samuel was instrumental in getting the project off the ground, using her influence to gain support at both the community and state levels.

The city of Montesano City Council and Mayor Tyler Trimble attended the ribbon cutting ceremony. Smith also credited Sen. Mike Chapman and Rep. Steve Tharinger for their support, highlighting the importance of affordable and quality childcare for economic growth and workforce development.

Building both the Montesano and Elma facilities involved close collaboration with Bradley Eisold of PNW Built Inc., who brought the designs to life. Smith still keeps the original drawing for the Elma facility in her Bible, a reminder of the vision that started it all.

The Montesano building features a well-designed layout, with each room tailored to the specific age group of children. A communal dining area and a covered playground add to the functionality and appeal of the space. Mayor Trimble described the facility as “a pretty spectacular place.”

As Learning to Grow continues to grow, the Smiths remain hands-on, managing everything from grocery shopping to technology installations. This involvement helps keep them connected to their staff and the needs of the families they serve.

With 50 employees across all locations, the team includes individuals at various stages of their careers, from high school students entering the workforce to those with advanced degrees in early childhood education. Many are pursuing college programs to enhance their skills.

The site director for Montesano, Gidget Barbo, previously worked at the Elma facility and with the Montesano School District. She finds joy in seeing the children she once taught grow up and return for care.

Despite the success of the new facility, there are still challenges to address. Smith acknowledges the need for more flexible hours to accommodate parents working swing shifts or those requiring occasional care. These conversations are ongoing, focusing on staffing, availability, and non-traditional hours.

Additionally, some families struggle with affordability, as they earn too much for state assistance but still find the cost prohibitive. Learning to Grow strives to keep rates as affordable as possible while ensuring families only pay for the care they truly need.

As the company celebrates its 20th anniversary, Smith reflects on the journey and the impact they’ve made. Providing childcare is not just a business; it’s a calling that involves deep connections with families and a commitment to continuous improvement. The work is challenging, but it’s also a constant source of joy and learning.