From The Cardinal’s Nest to Clark County Preschool: Five CCPS families share their story
- 19 hours ago
- 5 min read
When The Cardinal’s Nest opened in January 2024, several CCPS employees placed their trust in a brand new program, and in the educators leading it.
Two years later, their children have grown, thrived, and transitioned seamlessly into Clark County Preschool.
For these families, what began as a benefit quickly became a blessing.
Derek Knight (GRC) and Edith
For Derek Knight, knowing his daughter Edith has been well taken care of since Day One at The Nest and now at the Preschool, makes him more relaxed and focused at work.
“Just being within the district myself and knowing my children are in a building that's within the district has really made it easy," he says. "It fits our schedule, the care is outstanding, and it gives me and my wife great peace of mind."
Edith started out shy and timid, but has come out of her shell and is thriving. "We couldn't be more please with her social and emotional skills," Mr. Knight said. "She's very independent and has shown such growth from where we thought she would be. She looks forward to being with her peers more than anything.”
He recalled the first day at Cardinal’s Nest as emotional for the whole family. “Dropping her off that first day, I think we probably both cried as much as she did, but now I'm upset that she won't come running to me when she sees me. She has loved it so much."
Ian Ferrell (Baker) & Thomas
Ian admits he was nervous when The Nest first opened.
“It was a brand-new program in a renovated building that wasn’t originally built as a daycare. But those anxieties were quickly set aside. Thomas took to it right away.”
He praised the convenience and support of the program’s meals. “One of the best parts has been that the Cardinals Nest (and the preschool and after-care programs) provide all of the food, except milk for the littlest babies. That is a huge time-saver."
Now in preschool, Thomas’s growth has amazed his parents. “We cannot believe how much he is learning. He comes home knowing letter sounds, numbers, even addition and handwriting. He can write his name now — we certainly didn’t teach him that!”
The proximity of the preschool to Ian’s workplace provides daily reassurance. “I certainly have peace of mind knowing that I can look out of the window of Baker and see the roof of the preschool where Thomas is.”
Mr. Ferrell reflected on the program’s impact on his connection to the district.
“Being part of the Cardinals Nest and the Preschool has made me feel more a part of the school system. Interestingly, Ms. Pamela has Thomas in her preschool class, and I have her daughter in my class, so we are experiencing a unique partnership this year. All of this has really cemented my family in the Clark County Public Schools program and community.”
Roshal Rich (Strode Station) & Dawson
For Dawson’s family, relationships made The Nest special.
“What stood out most were the strong relationships with both the staff and other families. The director and staff were truly wonderful, consistently communicating with us and caring for Dawson as if he were their own."
That sense of connection provided reassurance during his early years. "That level of connection and care gave us tremendous peace of mind during his early years.”
Now in preschool, Dawson has transitioned smoothly. “While the facility is beautiful, what truly stands out is the staff. The principal and staff are amazing, and the care and attention shown to each child is evident."
Knowing he is well cared for allows his parent to be fully present at work. “Knowing Dawson is well cared for gives me peace of mind, allowing me to be fully present, focused, and productive at work. If anything comes up, the staff reach out immediately, which is incredibly reassuring.”
Stephanie McCoy (Strode Station) & Eloise
Eloise was part of the very first group of children at The Nest, and from the beginning, Ms. McCoy knew she was "safe, loved, and genuinely cared for."
"Gail, the director, is incredibly personable and supportive and builds strong relationships with families, which gave us so much peace of mind as parents. The teachers were warm, loving, and attentive, and they created an environment where Eloise felt secure and excited to learn."
She especially appreciates The Nest's dedication to educating the littles. “My favorite part of The Nest was the way learning was intentionally woven into play through monthly exploration units, meaningful crafts, and engaging activities. Eloise developed an early love of learning that she still carries with her today."
Now in preschool, Eloise continues to thrive. “She absolutely adores her teachers. She is happy to go to school every single day and comes home excited to share what she has learned.”
For Stephanie, the program made continuing her career possible. “When we looked at the cost of childcare, we had real conversations about whether I could continue teaching. This opportunity truly changed everything for our family.”
Aleisha Ellis (Director of Finance) & Jameson
Initially, Aleisha signed up for The Nest as backup care for her son, Jameson.
"As the program got underway and I was part of the planning and behind the scenes development, I saw how much care and intention went into every step of caring for these babies and toddlers and I knew that this was a good place for my boy.”
The transition from grandparent care wasn’t easy at first, but Jameson quickly adjusted — and found a best friend.
"Jameson ended up finding his best friend, Eloise, and adjusted wonderfully to the Cardinals Nest. They became known as peanut butter and jelly, they were always stuck together!”
Now in preschool, Jameson has shown tremendous growth, and for record, is still besties with Eloise. "The best part about preschool is the personalized care and attention they get. A once very shy little boy who would not speak is now talking up a storm. He has grown so much in his behavior and speech."
For Aleisha, the staff daycare program has provided both peace of mind and continuity for Jameson, allowing her to focus fully on her work while knowing he is safe, happy, and thriving.
PRIORITIZING FAMILIES IN A 'MEANINGFUL WAY'
Beyond childcare, families say The Nest and Preschool have strengthened their connection to the district as a whole.
"This benefit has, without a doubt, kept me in Clark County for the foreseeable future," Ferrell said. "I drive from Georgetown every day, and it really doesn't make sense for me to do that. But when you have quality childcare that is as affordable as the Cardinals Nest, and a preschool as high-quality and affordable as the Clark County Preschool, how can I leave? Why would I leave?"
Ms. McCoy says CCPS has made a valuable investment. "I am incredibly grateful to CCPS. This benefit shows that the district genuinely values educators, supports new families, and wants teachers to stay and grow here. It brings a deep sense of pride to be part of a district that lives out its vision of Growing Greatness.”
From first-day photos in January 2024 to preschoolers confidently writing their names, these children — and their families — have grown alongside the program.
"Knowing that CCPS is investing in its employees and their families in this way makes me feel truly valued and supported," said Ms. Rich. "This program has been a game-changer for our family. The continuity from The Nest to the Preschool, along with the high quality of care and instruction, makes this an invaluable benefit. I am deeply grateful to be part of a district that prioritizes families in such a meaningful way.”
