Portside Learning Center

I am so proud and lucky to say my child attends PLC! My little man has grown and thrived so much, because of that school. They do an amazing job prepping your child for kindergarten. Ms. Nicole organizes the most adventurous summer for the kiddos, as well. You really feel a sense of community when you come to the school.

Our family has had such a wonderful experience at this school. The teachers and staff truly go above and beyond every single day, and it’s clear that everything they do is centered around the children and their wellbeing. My daughter is not only cared for deeply, she is genuinely loved by the people who work with her. What impresses me most is how intentional the program is. The children are learning so many meaningful skills—from Spanish and ASL to emotional regulation and problem-solving. They spend time outside every day, engage in creative art, build independence, and are encouraged to think through challenges on their own in a supportive environment. Everything the school does feels thoughtful and rooted in respect for the kids. The educators approach their work with so much care, love, and genuine commitment to helping each child grow. Just as special is the sense of community the school creates. We’ve met such kind, thoughtful families, and it truly feels like we’re all part of something bigger—people who care deeply about creating a nurturing, supportive environment for our kids. We feel incredibly lucky to be part of this community and cannot recommend this school highly enough. I’m so grateful that my daughter gets to learn and grow in such a nurturing and inspiring place. ❤️

Portside has been an incredible part of our family’s life for years. We started when our oldest was just 7 months old, right at the beginning of the pandemic, and the kindness the teachers showed us during such an uncertain time is something I will never forget. When our son turned one and came down with Covid, the staff surprised us with a cake delivered to our home. As new parents navigating a brand‑new world, that gesture meant everything. Since then, we’ve been with Portside ever since — and for good reason. The teachers are truly amazing. They are warm, attentive, and deeply invested in each child’s growth. Our oldest recently started kindergarten and was so well prepared, both academically and socially, thanks to the foundation Portside built. What sets this daycare apart is how much they go above and beyond. From mindfulness classes to Spanish lessons to field trips taken on the city bus, they give kids real experiences that build confidence and curiosity. My oldest now knows how to use public transportation better than I do, which still makes me laugh. Portside isn’t just a daycare to us — it’s family. The environment is loving, thoughtful, and full of people who genuinely care. I couldn’t recommend this place enough.

We could not ask for a more supportive community than what is provided at Portside. Our kiddo is thriving, learning, and playing, and we see the deep intention and experience from the teaching team that goes into every day. It truly is an exceptional place, for kiddos and whole families to grow together.

Portside Learning Center has been an amazing place for our family. We’ve sent our kids there since 2020, and the teachers are truly phenomenal. So caring, communicative, and genuinely loving with the kids. It really feels like a partnership between teachers and parents, all working together to support our kids. The community is incredible and has become a second family to us. The kids take various classes including dance, yoga, mindfulness, and even get visits from the Portland Public Library Bookmobile. The outdoor space is a huge highlight, with streams, bridges, bugs, and lots of room to explore. The kids play outside every day of the year, no matter the weather, which we love. So much thought and planning goes into each and every day. I honestly hate to think about the day when we won’t have a child at Portside anymore. Highly recommend.