The Academy of Lovejoy

Thanks to a lot of prayer, God saw us through and allowed us to use the convenience of this daycare during a challenging time. It may work for some. The good:
The daycare was convenient and served its purpose when we needed it. The teachers were generally kind, communicative, and compassionate. When I raised a concern, it was addressed. Class sizes were small, which was a plus for me, and there was a familial feel among the teaching staff. They were approachable, easy to talk to, and willing to listen while managing busy little ones. I’d like to thank Ms. Ashley, Ms. Lisa, and the director’s mom, Ms. Barbara, who were all part of my son’s experience during his enrollment. There were others with less experience. They always had challenges when redirecting my son’s behavior which resulted in several calls. When asked if they understood the possibility of his exceptionality, I was assured they could handle it. The concerns: I had ongoing concerns regarding leadership and communication. In an in-person meeting, the director mentioned running a “tight ship,” which, in my opinion, felt inconsistent with the complaints and infractions publicly listed on Georgia DECAL. Conversations with the director often felt one-sided and, at times, came across as unprofessional. She barely let you speak and presented major offenses to accountability which is all in writing. There were several instances where it was mentioned that others were waiting for my son’s spot and that allowing him to remain enrolled was a “favor,” despite full disclosure at enrollment that my son was undergoing a behavioral evaluation. Hearing this repeatedly made me increasingly uncomfortable. Pressuring me to withdraw was their focus. I also personally witnessed a situation where the antecedent did not appear to be observed, yet my child was reprimanded for defending himself. As someone who works with children, this raised concerns for me. While I made efforts not to judge prematurely and continued to provide support when possible, factors such as teacher turnover and staff experience gave me pause. Over time, these issues contributed to an ongoing feeling of unease about my child’s care. The director did not like being held accountable and dismissed my son from the program. Overall: If you can get past the director’s communication style and circular conversations this daycare may be a decent option for social development, particularly due to its small class sizes and caring teachers. If you advocate for your child, this is NOT the place for you.

I actually came from another facility where my family had known them for at least 20 years . I will say that the transition from there to The Academy of Lovejoy was amazing! The teachers are so caring and involved. They really love the kids and love what they do. Mrs.Ashanti was literally a saving grace because I was stuck between a rock and a hard place . She really cares about her babies and I would recommend them to everyone. I also love the fact that they do not play about the babies when it comes to health n hygiene. I really love this place for my kids and they love it too. Two of my babies have actually moved up in their education since going there so that also reflects on the teachers greatly!

I did not create this review until after my daughter left. First and foremost THE TEACHERS ARE AMAZING AND PATIENT. Ashanti the director is very rude and sarcastic. I felt uncomfortable every day that I left when she was present because of how she made me feel. She seemed like it was an issue for me to call and check on my baby after I left . They don’t give any updates of anything. I had to call Ashanti in order to contact the direct person caring for my child. Imagine having to convince someone over the phone to check on your child the room they keep the 2 year olds in looks like a closet and that’s probably why they won’t let you past the front door. Multiple times I would drop my baby off and Ashanti wouldn’t even allow me and my daughter to step inside, she pointed us straight outside through the gate. I’m very upset with our experience and I would NOT recommend this place to “younger looking moms” **update 1. I understand the rules and regulations but my 2 yo child was bitten for the first time EVER in your facility. So communication wouldn’t be such a bad thing if that can happen with “no phones” besides all I ask is that you actually use the Brightwheel app for more things other than “bring more diapers” 2. As a director you should understand each parent has different schedules. Regardless each person should feel welcomed upon arriving to your facility to leave their precious child under your supervision. The teachers are the only reason I stayed any longer past the day I called you and you would not check on my child after I dropped her off bawling her eyes out the day after she had been bitten like a snack by another child.

My daughter is currently 4 and has been attending Academy of Lovejoy since she was 2yrs old. I cannot say enough good things about this school. I have seen so much growth in her since starting, from her speech to her writing to her identifying her colors, letters etc. The teachers are very hands on and they offer a great pre-k program.

I cannot express enough how grateful I am for the wonderful care my children receives at this daycare. The staff is incredibly attentive and nurturing, always ensuring that each child feels safe and happy. The facility is clean and well-maintained, providing a stimulating environment for learning and play. My children look forward to going every day and has made tremendous progress in their social and cognitive skills. I highly recommend this daycare to any parent looking for a reliable and loving place for their children.