Upstream Learning

Dear Upstream Learning Family and Friends,

This is the most difficult post I have ever written in the thirteen years of operating Upstream Learning Preschool. The dream that began in 2011 because of two precious and adorable girls has finally reached its closure. We have sold the preschool to Lauren and Eric Horn who will be operating their dream in place of ours. Lauren has been operating as the director in training and now the director for these last weeks!

The decision to sell was not one that came easily. You all know that Mrs. Jeneffer Allen's retirement from Upstream after 13 outstanding years of service hit me very hard (even though I had more than plenty of notice) and the stages of grief over the loss of her at our school are unrecoverable...she is just that amazing. There are also some personal reasons that are contributing to this decision which I don't wish to share publicly, but hope you will trust that I am working to do what is best for my family and my personal future after the relationship we have shared in these years. Grace, who was part of Upstream's first graduating class in 2012, will be a senior this school year. Hannah, my precious baby who started Upstream at 1 year old will be a freshman in high school. Time is a crazy thing...it feels like yesterday that these babies were in classrooms at our school, and then at the same moment they are almost ready for college and the next big phase of life. My advice for you: don't blink because in just a second you will be doing what I am and sit in disbelief that this many years have passed.

Eric and Lauren Horn have purchased the school and will be rebranding to Acres Grove Nature School. I will leave the vision and goals of the school for them to share as I know how important those are. I believe that all of the current families will be getting quick communication from them to set a meeting opportunity if you wish. I encourage you to take that time with them as you have shown in our time together that your children's care and learning are a priority and I know you want people that share a common vision for that carrying you forward.

We scheduled a retirement celebration for Mrs. Allen to honor her and we will absolutely still do that! Please be aware that Friday will also be my final day at Upstream prior to the transition of leadership as the Horn's have officially taken ownership of the school as of July 1. I hope that you will allow me and my family to join in the goodbyes said that day!

Our Upstream and Mrs. Allen farewell will be this Friday, July 12 from 4:00-6:00 in the KR room and the garden! Refreshments will be served! All current and alumni families are encouraged to attend this come and go event. I would love the opportunity to say goodbye in person if you would allow that.

Finally, I want to share contact information! You can reach me at my new email address: [email protected]

You have given me immense happiness in the years I have been able to serve your family at Upstream Learning. Please know that Kevin, Grace, and Hannah will all join me in our farewell on Friday, because Upstream is and always has been about family. Thank you for allowing me to care for your children. I wish you the most incredible future and hope to cross your path sometime soon for an update on how all of these sweet babies, young and old are doing!

With so much love and gratitude,

Emily