Building Bright
Futures Together
Family
Family is central to our mission. By collaborating with parents and caregivers, we foster a strong, trusting community where every child and family can thrive.
Intellectual Development
We cultivate each child’s intellectual growth through active exploration, hands-on learning, and curiosity. Our educators design meaningful experiences that spark knowledge, encourage problem-solving, and inspire a lifelong love of learning.
Social Development
We support each child’s social growth by nurturing cooperation and empathy. Through guided interactions and collaborative activities, children develop friendships, practice respect, and gain confidence within their community.
About Us
The Place Where Children Become Scholars
We are a family-centered, community-driven organization dedicated to supporting children and their families. By partnering with parents and caregivers, we provide the guidance, resources, and encouragement families need to thrive. Our qualified, passionate team works with each family to ensure every child’s cognitive, social, and emotional needs are met. We believe strong relationships build strong communities, and through play, learning, and nurturing care, we help children and families grow and flourish together.
Building Bright
Futures Together
Family
Family is central to our mission. By collaborating with parents and caregivers, we foster a strong, trusting community where every child and family can thrive.
Intellectual Development
We cultivate each child’s intellectual growth through active exploration, hands-on learning, and curiosity. Our educators design meaningful experiences that spark knowledge, encourage problem-solving, and inspire a lifelong love of learning.
Social Development
We support each child’s social growth by nurturing cooperation and empathy. Through guided interactions and collaborative activities, children develop friendships, practice respect, and gain confidence within their community.
About Us
The Place Where Children Become Scholars
We are a family-centered, community-driven organization dedicated to supporting children and their families. By partnering with parents and caregivers, we provide the guidance, resources, and encouragement families need to thrive. Our qualified, passionate team works with each family to ensure every child’s cognitive, social, and emotional needs are met. We believe strong relationships build strong communities, and through play, learning, and nurturing care, we help children and families grow and flourish together.
Why Choose Us?
We are a family-centered learning community where strong partnerships with parents help every child thrive. Our highly qualified teachers nurture curiosity, growth, and confidence supporting each child’s unique educational journey every step of the way.
What Sets Us Apart?
We are a community-driven organization committed to supporting the “Whole Family.” By building strong partnerships with parents and caregivers, we offer the guidance, resources, and encouragement families need to thrive. Our dedicated team ensures every family feels valued, supported, and empowered.
Our Team
Here for every step, every family.
Here for every step,
every family.
Our team is a dedicated group of professionals committed to strengthening and uplifting families. We believe that strong relationships create strong communities and we work hand in hand with parents and caregivers to ensure every child and every family receives the support they deserve. With passion, expertise, and heart, we empower families to grow, achieve, and thrive together.
Denieke Howard - Purnell
Executive Director
I’m a lifelong learner. I have worked in the field of Early Childhood Education for over twenty years. I am passionate about building positive relationships with children, families, and educators. I have accepted this career as my Ministry; it brings me joy to provide a safe haven for your minds. I am a child advocate and believe that it is imperative to support educators of young children.
I currently hold a BA-Family Studies, M. ED, and Infant -Toddler Specialist License, PEL, and have earned a State Recognition of IT Level 5, & ECE Level 6. I have had the pleasure to employ as an adjunct Professor with City Colleges of Chicago and host panels to advocate for the field of ECE.
London Currie
Teacher (Garden of Heaven)
Hi! I’m Ms. London, a passionate early childhood educator at The Garden of Heaven. I believe play is the foundation of learning—where curiosity blooms, confidence grows, and lifelong skills take root. I create hands-on experiences that nurture each child’s cognitive, social, and emotional growth, encouraging exploration with wonder, creativity, and joy. I’m currently pursuing my degree in Early Childhood Education and Applied Science to strengthen my teaching practice with effective strategies.
Beyond teaching, I’m a proud mom of identical twins, a role that deepens my love for childhood and the importance of patience, laughter, and care.