Today we’d like to introduce you to Misa Anderson.
Misa, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I began my career in early childhood education as a young teacher at Mamaroneck Community Nursery School in New York. It was there that I discovered how powerful and formative the early years can be, both for children and for educators. My director, Lynda Merchant, played a pivotal role in my journey. She was a strong, sometimes challenging leader, but she saw potential in me before I fully saw it in myself. Her encouragement pushed me to continue my education and take my role more seriously as a profession, not just a job.
From those early days, I continued to grow through education, leadership opportunities, and hands-on experience in the classroom. Each step helped shape my philosophy and deepen my commitment to creating high-quality, nurturing environments for children and supportive, collaborative spaces for teachers. I am now the Director of Wasatch Presbyterian Preschool in Sugarhouse. Looking back, I can clearly see how those early influences and experiences led me to where I am today—grounded in the belief that strong leadership, mentorship, and care in the early years truly matter.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Not at all—it hasn’t been a smooth road, and that’s an important part of my story. One of the biggest challenges was having to stop and start my education multiple times in order to make time to raise my family. Balancing coursework, work, and parenting meant constantly adjusting priorities and letting go of a traditional timeline. At times it was frustrating and discouraging, especially watching others move forward while I paused.
That said, those pauses also strengthened me. Raising a family deepened my understanding of children, families, and the realities many parents face. When I returned to school and to leadership roles, I brought that lived experience with me. The path may have been slower and less direct, but it shaped me into a more grounded, empathetic educator and leader—and ultimately made the journey more meaningful.
As you know, we’re big fans of Wasatch Presbyterian Preschool. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Wasatch Preschool is a play-based early childhood program rooted in research, relationships, and a deep respect for how young children learn best. We serve children and families by creating a warm, engaging environment where curiosity is encouraged, independence is nurtured, and learning feels joyful rather than forced.
What we are best known for is our balance. We intentionally blend strong developmental and academic foundations with large blocks of child-led play, both indoors and outdoors. We use the Creative Curriculum, which aligns with many local kindergartens and helps children transition confidently to the next stage of their education, while still honoring that preschoolers learn best through hands-on exploration, social interaction, and movement.
What truly sets Wasatch Preschool apart is our focus on people. We invest deeply in our teachers—through mentoring, trust, and professional growth—because we believe supported teachers create thriving classrooms. We also prioritize strong partnerships with families, recognizing that children do best when school and home are working together.
Brand-wise, I am most proud of the culture we’ve built: a place where children feel safe and capable, teachers feel valued and empowered, and families feel seen and supported. I want readers to know that Wasatch Preschool is not just a childcare option—it’s a community built with intention, heart, and a long-term vision for children’s success.
What are your plans for the future?
Looking ahead, my focus is on steady, thoughtful growth rather than big, flashy changes. I want to continue strengthening the quality of our program—deepening our curriculum, expanding professional development for our teachers, and making sure we remain a place where educators feel supported and excited to stay long-term.
I’m also looking forward to growing our community connections and finding new ways to support families beyond the classroom, whether that’s through parent education, shared resources, or partnerships within the community. If we do expand, it will be with intention—only in ways that preserve our values, our culture, and the close-knit feel that defines Wasatch Preschool.
Most of all, I’m excited to keep doing this work with purpose: refining what we already do well, responding to the real needs of children and families, and continuing to build something sustainable, meaningful, and rooted in care.
Pricing:
- 3 Day AM or PM $340 a month
- 4 Day AM $475 a month
- 5 Day Am $555 a month
- Full Day $1030 a month
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.wasatchpreschool.org/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wasatchpreschool
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WasatchPreschool
