2013 is upon us and Open Doors Center continues its commitment to offer a New Education alternative for todays

children. We are currently exploring connections with likeminded individuals who share our vision. The starting point of this shared vision is to obtain property that will include an organic garden, animals, and various educational workshops facilitated by passionate mentors from the community. Amazing synchronicities are happening Many possibilities are presenting themselves we will keep you updated as opportunities manifest. Presently, our program is being generously supported and hosted in the home of one of our guides/teachers, located in El Mirage. Tuition is decided on an individual basis and the amount will be determined during your application process. Our mission is to provide and make accessible this beautiful, alternative, education program to every child that is interested. Meet our newest staff member Mary Tierney.

I am excited to be here in sunny Arizona after residing in Connecticut where I have been involved in the nurturing and education of young children for nearly 30 years.including three of my own! My formal education includes a B.S. in Human Development and Family Relations from the University of Connecticut and an M. S. in Elementary Education and State Certification from Southern Connecticut State University. I have also studied the art of Tai Chi Chuan, acquired a few tracking and wilderness survival skills at Tom Browns Tracker School in New Jersey, and practiced Reiki and Native South American healing modalities. While earning my masters degree, I assisted in grades 1-5 as a paraprofessional providing 1-1 assistance to children who were having difficulty either emotionally or academically. I continued in the public school environment for a few years in various capacities including a 1st grade Transitional Teacher, and as a Remedial Reading Teacher; both opportunities to work with children who expressed the need for a more individualized learning style or the freedom to acquire knowledge at their own pace. Looking back I realize that these children were my most profound teachers. Most recently, I have been a Kindergarten, Pre K, and School Age teacher for Kindercare Learning Centers in Wallingford, CT and Glendale, AZ. My 7 years in these private child development centers were most rewarding because of the strong bonds that formed between teachers and children and their families, and because of the flexibility and creativity that underpinned the curriculum which was a stark contrast from the regimented, rigid schedule of the public schools. Children flourished in an atmosphere of acceptance and the joy of discovery. Learning was a shared process. The children generously gave me the space to grow my fledgling acoustic guitar

skills as we created songs together, holding those notes a little longer so my clumsy fingers could find the next chord! I am so pleased to have found the Open Doors Center and look forward to many happy, productive days of discovery and creativity with the children under the beautiful, Arizona sunshine! If you or your child child is looking for a different way to experience learning, or is presently attending a traditional school take a moment and reflect upon the following

All of these what ifs exist in New Education at Open Doors Center. Our core group continues to strategize ways to make this type of education available to any child/family who desires an alternative to the present day school systems. In light of the present day happenings more and more people are awakening to the need for an alternative education choice. Next fall, in Arizona, vouchers will be available for more children to switch to other educational programs. (The criteria are still limited, but at least a step forward.) More and more children are saying NO to the present system by acting out. Unfortunately, this often leads to becoming labeled and receiving punishments. If you are concerned about your childs educational experience, or interested in seeing New Education programs being brought forth, please contact us. Our team is 100% dedicated to birthing a sustainable program. A program where your child will succeed and gain/remember all the necessary skills and knowledge needed to be successful and happy in life. We look forward to hearing from you. Opening Doors and Planting Seeds for New Education, Terry Damlos and the TEAM 623-703-3452 www.opendoorscenter.org

opendoorscenter@gmail.