Meaningful Makeover
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A web series featuring dynamic makeovers of early learning environments
A web series featuring dynamic makeovers of early learning environments
Welcome to Meaningful Makeover
Research shows that small changes to a classroom can make a big impact on a child’s learning. Need some ideas to create a more engaging early learning environment? Meaningful Makeover is a web series created and produced by Gail Joseph, PhD, founding director of Cultivate Learning at the University of Washington. This series for educators and early learning providers offers tips, visuals, and inexpensive solutions that transform environments. It promotes learning opportunities, greater accessibility, and engagement. Each episode highlights simple improvements that are easy to make. Watch our educational environment experts as they team up with providers to show the secrets and science behind the most impactful early learning spaces.
Trailer
Before & After Gallery of Meaningful Makeovers
Meet our Staff
DeEtta Simmons
DeEtta Simmons is a senior director with over 25 years of experience in early childhood education. Since beginning her career in an infant classroom in Alaska, DeEtta has held various roles focused on advancing early learning systems and quality assessments. She co-hosts the Meaningful Makeover series, blending expertise with innovative educational approaches.
Outside work, DeEtta enjoys outdoor activities with her family, particularly her granddaughter. She loves promoting equitable early learning systems and enhancing quality for all learners.
Jamie Phillips-Jimenez
Jamie Phillips-Jimenez is the quality standards manager. Jamie has been in early childhood education for more than 15 years.
As part of her work, Jamie provided training to Spanish speaking home-based childcare providers in Washington.
Molly McNeal
Molly McNeal is an interim manager for the Quality Recognition team. Most recently she focused on the Environment Highlights Pilot. Molly earned a Master of Educational Administration from Seattle University in 2011. Before joining Cultivate Learning in 2016, she worked with children and families in both public and private institutes in Washington.
Molly has four young children and is enthusiastic about outdoor and experiential learning in early childhood education. Molly has training in the Reggio Emilia philosophy and whole heartedly believes: “There are three teachers of children: adults, other children, and their physical environment.” — LORIS MALAGUZZI
Elane Jones
Elane is a project manager who supports the Quality Recognition team. Elane is also pursuing a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education at North Seattle College. Elane supports multiple projects across Cultivate Learning and the Quality Recognition team. One of her favorites is Meaningful Makeover, which she has supported since 2017.
As a mother of two young boys, Elane likes to mentor young people of color and help them build confidence as they discover themselves through education.
Apply for a Meaningful Makeover!
Interested in having a meaningful makeover at your site? Applications are available in English, Spanish, Russian, Somali, and Vietnamese.
Meaningful Makeover in the News!
Check out this Seattle Times feature story about Meaningful Makeover! Read more on Seattle Times...
Watch an inspiring Meaningful Makeover EDUtalk from University of Washington College of Education Curriculum Specialist Dawn Williams. Watch more...