Testimonials

"The Sammy center has helped my son gain skills that help him to regulate himself" 

"Very intuitive and focused on each child as an individual" 

"Highly recommend"

Ronnie Smith – Parent

"I am continually impressed by the nurturing care that Teacher Tracy and Teacher Taylor provide. I love hearing how they communicate with each other. It is a very healing and supportive environment."

Lead Early Childhood Consultant

 All schools have the potential to be inclusive communities.  At The Sammy Center they are committed to understand and support the inner lives of children, families and staff in everything they do.  In an era where affordable, public education is under attack, and where many schools prioritize the performance of academic skills and normative behavior at the expense of children's wellbeing, TSC meets the needs of all children with and without identified disabilities or those that have experienced adversity at a young age.  A 2022 report from The Children’s Center also revealed that Utah ranks among states with the highest prevalence of youth with mental health disorders. At TSC, we’re driven by an ethical commitment to change that.
 

Alex Collopy, Ph.D., IMHE ®

 The Sammy Center is unlike any other. Every child is uplifted in such a special way, met where they are, and loved beyond compare. My time at Sammy Center has helped me to see the goodness that each human being is capable of giving to the world, whether it be those tiny humans, their incredible teachers and parents, and everyone in between.  

Caroline Hill, Intern

The past year has been such a blessing for Sully and for me as his mom. Thank you and all your incredible teachers for loving him and guiding him and making him feel safe. He never once complained about going to school and always left with a big smile and a "that was fun going to school" which is the biggest weight off my shoulders. I cannot express how grateful we are for you and the way you helped us navigate school and aids and work towards the next step. You are truly one of a kind and I am forever grateful your love shined on us the past year. Thank you for building the most beautiful and loving school for these special souls to attend and feel safe. Thank you!!

Rachel Lacy- Parent

There are children who struggle in social contexts, and in typical institutions, we often view them as troublemakers. However, these children are not the assailants; they suffer from their own inner turmoil. While interacting with these children can be challenging, we must also consider the families who are enduring this journey alongside them. By showing compassion and love to everyone going through tough times, we build a stronger community and become better individuals. Though my time was brief, I was grateful to be part of this meaningful endeavor. 

Sang Ho Kim

 During my four months spent interning at The Sammy Center, I witnessed children being constantly set up for success through promoted social emotional skills. From day one, I was welcomed into a nurturing environment that fostered growth, empathy, and compassion. I loved seeing the kids grow every day and apply these practices by themselves. These experiences have deepened my understanding of the industry and instilled in me a deep sense of purpose and passion for the work we do here. I am filled with immense gratitude for the relationships I've formed, the lessons I've learned, and the personal and professional growth I've experienced. I am leaving this internship with renewed confidence and determination to pursue my goals. I am excited to carry on the knowledge and experiences gained here at The Sammy Center. It is is truly a one-of-a-kind preschool. 

Hannah Truman, Intern

I wanted to say that I am so grateful for everything you have done for me and for the time that I was able to be at TSC!  It was an incredible experience and I already miss everyone so much! I hope everything is going well and that all of the kids are thriving!

Long Term Intern - University of Utah

 It has been immensely fulfilling to work as an intern at The Sammy Center. The Sammy Center is unique in that it is committed to providing preschoolers with a safe, stimulating environment. The staff's dedication to the personal development of every child is apparent in all they do. During my internship, I got to see personally how the creative curriculum and nurturing environment gave the kids a love of learning and a sense of security. The event expanded my knowledge of early childhood education and enhanced my passion for working with children. I am appreciative of the chance to be a part of this unique location that has a big impact on the lives of young kids and their families. 

Ivy Tran, Intern

Dear Sammy Center,

There are moments in life when a single person's belief in a child can change their entire future. For our family, that person is you. They say it takes a village to raise a child, and I now truly understand the depth of that saying. The Sammy Center has been that village for our family. I will forever be grateful for the love, patience, and unwavering support you have given our son. Your kindness and dedication have not only helped him develop the skills he needs to succeed but have also instilled in him the confidence to embrace who he truly is. 

As I write this, my eyes are filled with tears-tears of gratitude, of love, and of the bittersweet goodbye that comes with leaving a place that has meant so much to our family in a short amount of time. Our journey has not been an easy one.  Along the way, many have been quick to define our son by labels, but you saw past them. You and your team recognized his potential, nurtured his strengths, and believed in him in a way that has made all the difference. That kind of belief, the kind that lifts a child up and gives them the foundation to thrive is a gift that lasts a lifetime. In a world that often feels uncertain, you are everything that is right. Your compassion, patience, and unwavering dedication remind us of the goodness and kindness that truly make a difference. 

It is rare to find someone who makes such a profound impact, and I hope you know just how much you're appreciated not just by our son but by our entire family. You have given our son the gift of being truly seen, understood, and supported, and that is something we will carry with us forever. Your influence extends beyond the classroom. It has shaped our lives, our hopes, and our belief in what is possible for our son’s future. The way you pour your heart into your work is extraordinary, and we are endlessly grateful for the light you've brought into our lives. 

I also want to take a moment to thank your incredible team at The Sammy Center. The dedication, compassion, and tireless effort of every member of your staff have made a world of difference not just for our son but for so many children and families. Your team's belief in the potential of every child, the safe and nurturing environment you provide, and the kindness you extend each day are truly life-changing. You have been a part of our village, and because of you and your team, our son has been surrounded by people who believe in him and have given him the tools to thrive. You are shaping brighter futures, and for that, we will always be grateful. 

With deepest appreciation,

Former Sammy Center Family