For more than 50 years, we have partnered with families to give children the strongest possible start in life. Since 1972, we have supported the growth, learning, and development of more than 40,000 children and expectant families across Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren Counties. Today, through our home and center-based programs, we proudly serve 583 children and families, supporting learning and well-being from prenatal care through age 5. We create safe, nurturing environments where children thrive, families feel supported, and communities grow stronger together.
At Flowers Early Learning, we are more than a preschool, we support children and families every step of the way. We provide high-quality early childhood education that helps children build the skills they need for kindergarten and long-term school success, including early literacy, math readiness, social-emotional development, and learning through play.
Beyond the classroom, we offer a range of family support services designed to meet he needs of the whole child and family. Our Family Advocates work alongside families to connect them with community resources, support access to housing, food, and other essential needs, and help families set and achieve meaningful goals that support stability and growth. Our Health Services team also helps ensure children are up to date on their medical and dental care, supporting their overall health and well-being.
Together, our staff create a strong foundation that prepares children for school and supports families in building brighter futures.
To build a future where children, families, and communities thrive.
Every child dreams fearlessly, creating a world of endless possibilities.
Rooted in strong, nurturing relationships, we believe that children thrive when families thrive. Our whole family approach honors each family’s unique journey and walks alongside them as trusted partners in growth and discovery. We prioritize social-emotional learning as the foundation for school readiness and lifelong success- empowering children to build confidence, empathy, and resilience. We prioritize inclusive, transformative early learning experiences and deep community connections, we help children and families dream fearlessly and grow a future full of possibility.
Locations
Classrooms
Children and Families Served Each Year
Staff Members
Staff that were previous Head Start parents
Staff who are veterans
Staff continuing education
Books distributed to HS and EHS families this year
Meals Served Annually
Enrolled children that received medical exams
Enrolled children that received dental exams
Coming Soon
Finance Director/CFO
Laura Burtis, CFO/Finance Director is a Graduate of Purdue University with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting. In 2015, Laura was hired as an intern with the Finance Department. Since 2015, Laura has held the positions of Finance Specialist, Finance Manager, and began her role as the CFO/Finance Director in 2021. When she is not working, she enjoys spending time with her family. Her favorite book is Oh the Places You’ll Go, by Dr. Seuss.
Head Start Education Director
Mandy Orlando, Head Start Education Director, started her career at Flowers Early Learning as a Teacher in 2008. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education with Early Childhood endorsement from Western Michigan University and a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Ashford University. She is a certified CLASS observer and trainer in the Michigan Literacy Essentials for Preschool. Mandy’s favorite childhood book is Love You Forever by Robert Munsch. Mandy is passionate about supporting teachers and children and gets to do both in her work at Flowers Early Learning and in her community as a Girl Scout troop leader and adjunct instructor at Southwestern Michigan College.
Early Head Start Education Director
Patti Masters, Early Head Start Education Director, is a graduate of Ferris State University with a BA in Early Childhood Education as well as a graduate of Western Michigan University with a MA in Social Work. She holds CLASS Certification, is a trainer for the Family Services Credential, and a member of NAEYC. Patti was hired in 2011 as a Head Start Mental Health Consultant. From there she became the Early Head Start Administrator/Home Based Supervisor, then the Early Head Start Education Director. When not working, she enjoys kayaking. Her favorite book is The Mitten, by Jan Bret.
Health Services Director
Cindy Thomas, Health Services Director, is a graduate from Western Michigan University with a Masters in Social Work with an emphasis on Clinical Practice. She also holds a certification in Health Care Administration and CLASS. Cindy was hired in 1999 as a Health Services Associate. From there she became a Health Services Specialist, Mental Health Consultant, Early Head Start Administrator, and started her role as the Health Services Director in 2012. While she is not working, her passion is spending time with her family. She does not have a favorite childhood book, but has grown to love any book written by Eric Carle.
Family Services Director
Gloria Walter, Family Services Director, is a graduate of Western Michigan University with a Masters in Organizational and Global Leadership, and a Bachelor's in Education. Gloria holds a K12 teaching certificate and was a classroom educator before joining Flowers Early Learning in 2017, as the ERSEA Manager. In 2018, Gloria transitioned into her current role as the Family Services Director. One of her fondest childhood memories is reading with her father each night before bed; she attributes this ritual to her passion for lifelong learning. In addition to unremitting learning, Gloria enjoys frequently traveling to new places and learning about new cultures.
Human Resources Director
Kevin Wordelman, Human Resources Director, is a dedicated advocate for teachers, students and working families, with a Master of Public Administration degree from Western Michigan University and ten years of human resources leadership in education and human services organizations. Kevin is a skilled facilitator, risk-manager and coach, committed to organizational justice, anti-racism and inclusion. In his spare time, Kevin enjoys hiking, basketball, boating, music and books. His favorite children's book is Frog and Toad Together.
Development Director
