Staff
The Director
Welcome to Growing Acorns Parent’s Day Out (PDO) program! I am so honored that you have chosen to entrust us with your child. We understand that choosing a program for your little one is an important decision, and we do not take your decision lightly.
Here at Growing Acorns PDO, our desire is to provide a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment where children feel safe, valued, and encouraged to grow. Each day we strive to create fun and exciting experiences that support your child’s development.
As Director, my goal is to build strong relationships with you and your family. Open communication and partnership are very important to us. We want you to feel confident and at peace knowing that your child is cared for while at our program.
I look forward to getting to know each of you and walking alongside your family. If you ever have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Thank you for allowing us to invest in your child’s early years. It is our privilege to serve your family.
Heidi Young
Ms. Chrissy
Lead Teacher: Seedlings
Chrissy Smith is excited to be joining the team at Growing Acorns this year. She has been married to her college sweetheart for six years, and together they have two sweet daughters.
Chrissy loves serving Jesus through her church and enjoys creative hobbies such as calligraphy, crocheting, photography, and painting. She is thankful for the opportunity to teach and pour into young children at Growing Acorns and looks forward to all God has planned for this ministry.
Ms. Andrea
Tuesdays Assistant: Seedlings
Andrea Layne is a dental hygienist and proud mother of two who enjoys working with children. As a parent herself, she understands the importance of creating a fun, nurturing, and trustworthy environment where children feel comfortable and parents feel confident in their care. She is excited to be part of the Parents Day Out program and looks forward to providing a caring, engaging, and joyful experience for every child. As a bonus, she will teach your children how to floss.
Ms. Caitlin
Thursday Assistant: Seedlings
Caitlin Mack is a devoted wife and mother with a passion for nurturing and encouraging young children during their early years of growth and development. She has worked as an esthetician for over 10 years and is the owner of Honey & Company Salon in downtown Clinton.
Outside of work, Caitlin enjoys exploring new restaurants and coffee shops, baking, and creating meaningful memories with her family. She is excited to help cultivate a fun, loving, and engaging classroom environment for the Growing Acorns family.
Ms. Lisa
Lead Teacher: Sprouts
Lisa Votaw was born and raised in Anderson County and is grateful to have come to know the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ at an early age. Homeschooled through high school by her mother, Lisa later attended Crown College, where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in 2016. Following graduation, she had the privilege of teaching at West End Academy Preschool for five and a half years before stepping into the blessing of motherhood with her husband. Lisa is excited to join Growing Acorns this fall, working with the 2–3-year-olds, and looks forward to encouraging young lives and watching God work through this ministry.
Ms. Bethany
Lead Teacher: Saplings
Bethany recently graduated with a degree in Social Work and is currently pursuing her master’s degree to further her education. She has always had a love for children and is excited to be part of her home church’s new ministry. Her goal is to help provide a safe, loving, and nurturing environment where children can learn, grow, and have the opportunity to learn about Christ along the way.
Ms. Mercyann
Assistant Teacher: Saplings
Mercyann Votaw has a heart for serving others and truly enjoys spending time with children. For the past several years, she has helped care for two of her four nephews on a regular basis and often spends time with the others as well. In addition to her childcare experience, she also cleans for families and a local church, helping maintain warm, welcoming, and well-kept spaces.
Mercyann is excited to be part of the Growing Acorns PDO team and looks forward to working with and encouraging a variety of children. Outside of work, she enjoys being involved at church and spending quality time outdoors with her family.
Oak Ridge Baptist Church
1451 Bethel Valley Rd, Oak Ridge, TN 37830