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What happens when we create a childhood oasis free from the constant ping of notifications and glow of screens? In this enlightening conversation, Colleen reveals how she transformed her passion for education into The Schoolhouse—a revolutionary early learning center in New Albany that's deliberately technology-free.

From her beginnings as a college student working at a local daycare to owning multiple schools, Colleen's journey reflects a deep commitment to childhood development rooted in traditional, hands-on experiences. "I promise you they'll have plenty of technology someday," she explains, describing how her students engage in messy art projects, outdoor play regardless of weather, and community exploration instead of screen time. This refreshingly old-school approach addresses parents' growing concerns about digital saturation while preparing children for academic success.

The Schoolhouse stands apart through its intentional alignment with New Albany's school curriculum, ensuring seamless transitions for children entering kindergarten. Students practice with the same handwriting worksheets and phonics systems they'll encounter in elementary school, often reaching kindergarten-level reading before they leave preschool. Colleen's perspective as both an educator and mother of four children in the district gives her unique insight into creating this educational bridge.

Community connection thrives through the school's partnership with local businesses for field trips, including veterinary visits where children perform "surgeries" on stuffed animals and garden experiences where they grow vegetables prepared by the school's dedicated chef. As a long-time PTO president across multiple New Albany schools, Colleen has helped unite resources across the district, demonstrating how educational leadership extends beyond classroom walls.

Whether you're a parent concerned about balancing technology in childhood, an educator looking for alternative approaches, or simply curious about New Albany's educational landscape, this conversation offers a compelling vision for nurturing young minds through real-world experiences, community engagement, and deliberate simplicity.

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