Marcia and Sam, Directors
EFC Eagan
Eagan
Create. Laugh. Learn.
Welcome to Especially for Children’s Eagan Child Development Center. We serve infant through Pre-K children in a caring and safe environment. Our programs are based on the Creative Curriculum®, which is designed to encourage exploration and learning through play. Read more about our Learning Curriculum and Developmental Goals here.
At EFC Eagan, children enjoy a spacious, newly remodeled center with a Gym/Large Muscle room as well as two playgrounds with sandboxes and grassy hills. We are located next to Quarry Park, which features a baseball diamond, soccer field, playground, ice rink and sledding hill, so we have many opportunities to spend time outdoors. Throughout the day the children participate in a wide range of activities including art, reading, outdoor play, buggy rides (infants) and sign language. Music and movement classes are offered bi-monthly. We would love for you to visit us and learn more about your family!
Directors
Marcia
My name is Marcia Ale, I have a bachelor’s degree on Business administration. I’m originally from Bolivia. I moved here 6 years ago. I have 3 kids and I really enjoy working with kids and their families.
Sam
Hello! My name is Sam Gort, and I am the co-director at the Eagan location of Especially for Children. Before becoming a director, I was teaching Kindergarten in a public school in Granite Falls, Minnesota. I began teaching in 2013 but my experience with children began well before that as I spent my high school years teaching swimming lessons and nannying. I also spent time at an after-school care program in college. I have always had an interest in young children’s growth and development. I have my B.S. in Early Childhood Education from Minnesota State University Moorhead (2008) and a master’s degree in Teaching, Learning, and Leading in Education. In 2023, I graduated with my Educational Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Minnesota State University Moorhead.
I am married with two children and a dog. My family and I moved to Eagan in 2023 and enjoy walking our dog, swimming, and exploring the different parks near us. My absolute favorite thing to do outside of work is read!
Infant Teaching Staff
Molly
Hello! I’m excited to provide care for your child! I am lucky to have joined EFC in March 2020. I have always known I would pursue a career working with children, and have a BS in Human Development and Family Studies from UW-Stout. After college I spent about 9 years living in the Seattle area, but am loving being back in my home state of MN and closer to family. I have two daughters, Lilly and Lexa, to keep me busy outside of the classroom. We enjoy as much outdoor time as possible in summers and then hunker down for family movies or game nights in MN winters.
Toddler Teaching Staff
Daniela
Hello, my name is Daniela, I’m originally from Venezuela where I earned my bachelor’s degree in education. I have lived in Minnesota for 5 years. I have 14 years of experience working with children. I am passionate about working with children showing them different routines and activities.
Alex
Hi, my name is Alex. I work in the Little Sprouts classroom. I started working at Especially for Children in June 2014. I enjoy working with toddlers. I have babysat and volunteered at a few different daycares and I live in Farmington with my family and dog. When I’m not at work I like to watch Wild games, walk my dog, go for walks, hang out with my family and friends, and play softball.
Abbey
Hello! My name is Abbey and I work in the toddler classrooms. I started at EFC in February 2022 but I have been working with kids for a long time. I am a professional dancer and dance instructor. I dance with the 612 crew for the Minnesota Timberwolves. I also teach and choreograph for competitive dance studios. I love bringing my love for music an dance into the classroom. When I am not working, I enjoy snuggling up with my kitties and doing art projects.
McKenzie
Hello! My name is McKenzie. I grew up in Green Bay, WI and have also lived in Mississippi and Maryland before moving to Eagan, MN. I have my bachelor’s degree in Psychology and have been working with toddlers since 2016. I love the Green Bay Packers, my two cats, and my husband, Colin. I love helping little minds grow, learn, and discover new things!
Preschool/Pre-K Teaching Staff
Oriana
My name is Oriana Medina, I am originally from Venezuela where I graduated as an Attorney in 2020. I am currently completing my Child Development Associate (CDA) Credentials. I have been working with kids for a year and I love it! I love making a positive impact on children, watching them grow and learn new things every day. I want to be the best for them because that keeps them motivated.
Rocio
Hello! My name is Rocio. I am originally from Mexico City, where I earned my bachelor’s degree in Education. I have lived in Minnesota for over 25 years! I have worked in childcare and education since 1985 and have worked with all ages from infants through kindergarten. I have special training and experience in Educational Psychology and Nurturing Child – Rearing. I am passionate about working with children of diverse backgrounds, and particularly enjoy teaching my students about Spanish language and culture. Outside of work I enjoy gardening, scrapbooking and playing with my grandchildren!
EFC Eagan: July Newsletter Photos