About Exploring Minds Academy
At Exploring Minds Academy, we believe that every child is born curious — and curiosity is the first step toward a lifelong love of learning. Our nurturing and engaging environment encourages children to explore, question, and discover the world around them through hands-on experiences, purposeful play, and guided learning.
From early literacy to STEM-based activities, we support the whole child—academically, socially, and emotionally—while building confidence and independence along the way. With passionate educators, small group ratios, and a commitment to safety and inclusivity, we help young minds grow into strong thinkers, kind friends, and capable problem-solvers.
Our Philosophy
The philosophy of Exploring Minds Academy is to provide a high-quality early learning experience through an environment that is rich in materials designed to meet the needs of each child. Our teachers are trained in developmentally appropriate practices and complete continuing education hours each year, ensuring that they are up to date on necessary changes and improvements in care. This assists the teachers in meeting the needs of the whole child so they can provide for their individual educational, physical, cultural, and social needs.
Exploring Minds Academy achieves this purpose by providing a professionally equipped facility and a carefully designed program curricula, which are responsive to individual abilities, needs, and interests.
Core Values: P.R.I.D.E.
Passion for what we do
Respect for ourselves, others, and our environment.
Integrity in all we do.
Discovering the wonders of our world.
Empowering those in our lives.
Who We Are
Exploring Minds Academy got its start in Erie in 2008 with Pamela Piekarski. But this was not her first venture into childcare, Pamela got her start in education as a kindergarten teacher, back in 1978.
As a retired teacher with over 40 years of experience in the childcare sector, Pamela has curated a bespoke curriculum for Exploring Minds Academy with roots in Montessori, High Scope, and Conscious Discipline.
However, Pamela's journey to establishing Exploring Minds Academy was not without challenges. In 1985, with three young children, she found that the childcare options available to her family were not up to standard. Undeterred, Pamela decided to become the change she wanted to see and set up her first center that same year, with her second following in 1987.
From time spent studying in Singapore and Italy to teaching Pre-K to directing, and partially owning the Seven Oaks Academy, Pamela has had a rich and varied career. After time in public school classrooms, she took a step back from education until she was asked to come and support a new center in Erie. Here, her calling was rediscovered, and thus Exploring Minds Academy was founded on January 1st, 2008.
Here at Exploring Minds Academy, we create a space that fosters early learning in a fun and safe environment where children can explore the world around them.
We believe our innovative approach gives children a bright and positive start in life, as we encourage both exploration and discovery, as well as emotional intelligence and building friendships.
