Our Family
Anthem Child Care center was established in 1968 as a provider of childcare services During the past 32 years, Anthem Child Care centers has been a leader within the childcare industry. We started as "All Seasons Childcare" in 1968 as a provider of childcare. Our company has evolved into not only a quality childcare provider service, but also a pre-school program that will enhance the educational development of your child. Anthem Child Care has now built and established more than 48 custom childcare centers across the country.
Much of this success is the result of the values and beliefs of Anthem Child Care centers founder, Paul J. Emch Paul's first mission statement was to "provide tender loving care and education too" for each child. Not much has changed over the years. We all share the goal of making sure that your child knows that he or she is someone special, and needs to be educated and prepared for the challenges in life. Paul expected every employee to be an ambassador of company principles -- demonstrating love, integrity, generosity, self-discipline and hard work -- simply treating others as we would want to be treated. The current management team has molded these values into their strategic plans and operating practices. These values, along with a team approach to management, have empowered Anthem Child Care centers to grow to nearly 200 employees who care for nearly 1,000 children each day. Paul is no longer with us, but his commitments to quality, education, and safety have been passed down to the third generation of family who oversee the operations.
What We Believe
We believe that every child is a precious, God-given being with basic needs - social, physical, emotional and intellectual. We will work to instill proper manners and values, honesty and sharing, respect and self worth in your child. It is our purpose to meet those needs when your child is in our care, by providing a safe and loving environment here at our school.
Our Director - Francie Gardner
Hello, my name is Francie Gardner, and I am the director of Valley Child Care and Learning Center's Anthem location.
I grew up in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and had many opportunities to explore the outdoors. My parents moved the family to Phoenix and I had many more experiences that enriched my life. I had horses and a plethora of animals. My four children were raised in the same fashion, with lots of animals, reptiles, and the love for nature. Our favorite outdoor experiences were to swim, hike, camp, fish and travel around the U.S. Currently, my kids live in other states working and trying to pay off college loans. I live alone with my Yellow Lab, Roxy, and two cats.
I have served in education at all levels from early elementary through high school for over 36 years, and have devoted my professional career to the development of young children. I studied Elementary Education, Special Education and Educational Leadership. I received my Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education from the University of Kansas, gained a Special Education Certificate from Arizona State University, and completed my master's degree at Northern Arizona University in Educational Leadership. Before coming to Valley Child Care, I taught in the Paradise Valley Unified School District for 30 years.
Our Mission Is To Make Your Child Smile
