From this family’s desire for high quality childcare for their own child, Grove Hill Academy was born – to provide early education and care to the children and families of Auburn, Alabama.

In 2016, Jim Ward’s daughter Holly was expecting and looking for child care in the Auburn community. Holly had been placed on several waiting lists, unfortunately when her child was born, nothing was available.  Jim, a successful business owner wanted to help his daughter, so he stated, “Well, let’s just build one!”

Jim and Holly both did a lot of research before opening the doors of Grove Hill Academy. They learned that the quality of an early childhood program rests solidly on the quality of the program’s staff.

“We are committed to providing qualified, caring, and educated staff who are dedicated to positive relationships with families and professional development.”

Most of the Grove Hill Academy staff has a 2 or 4 year degree, or a Child Development Associate Credential (CDA). Every staff member is required to engage in regular professional development and training activities.

In 2019, Grove Hill Academy is beginning a master teacher program. This program will provide enhanced education and training opportunities to a select number of teacher leaders. Establishing a high-quality staff guarantees a high quality of care for your child. Jim and Holly also want to provide opportunities to strengthen the early childhood workforce. They intend to do this by creating observation and internship experiences for students at local colleges and universities.

Jim Ward, Grove Hill Academy’s Chief Executive Officer, continues to run a printer and cartridge company in the Metro Atlanta area. He has successfully run this business for 30+ years. His daughter and co-owner, Holly Sinquefield, is a 2012 graduate from Auburn University with a degree in Social Work.