Way to Grow knows that strong communities are built one relationship at a time. For over two decades, Miss Shany has modeled the best of early childhood education—meeting families where they are, building trust, and supporting lifelong learning.
Affectionately known as “Auntie Shany,” she has been a trusted guide, advocate, and friend to hundreds of families across Minneapolis. Her retirement this August marks the end of a remarkable chapter—one rooted in trust, cultural connection, and the transformational power of early childhood education.
A Career Guided by Purpose
Shany’s journey with Way to Grow began in 1998 after a friend encouraged her to apply. What started as a job became a calling. “I believed in the work they do, and it inspired me to apply,” she says. That belief became the foundation of her 26-year career, grounded in patience, persistence, and possibility.
Family Educator Rooted in Community
Shany’s approach has always been deeply personal. Her work wasn’t just about kindergarten readiness, it was about empowering whole families. She offered tools, encouragement, and advocacy, helping caregivers navigate everything from literacy support to school systems.
Her efforts paid off. In one unforgettable moment, she attended a high school graduation where multiple former students, now towering young men, called out “Auntie Shany!” and ran to embrace her. “They surrounded me, telling stories of our visits when they were little. That makes everything worth it.”
Lifting Families, Shaping Futures
Shany’s philosophy is simple but powerful: when we invest in children, we invest in families. “You’re teaching moms and siblings, too. You’re helping them figure out how to navigate systems and dream bigger,” she explains. This belief is supported by research from institutions like the Harvard Center on the Developing Child, which shows early childhood education has long-term benefits for entire communities.
Her leadership has helped children thrive. One young boy in her program skipped kindergarten entirely due to his early literacy skills. When the school asked how he learned so much, his mother said, “Oh, I have Auntie Shany.”
Connecting Somali Families to Early Learning
In her earliest days on the job, Shany noticed something missing: no Somali families were enrolled in Way to Grow programming. So Shany got to work. Within one month, she had personally connected over 200 Somali families to early education resources and support. That outreach became the start of something bigger—a lasting, trusted connection between Way to Grow and the Somali community in Minneapolis.
The Legacy of a Lifelong Educator
Shany’s impact will continue long after her retirement. From babies who became graduates, to mothers who became advocates, her legacy lives in the lives she helped shape. “We’ve improved education and information for families, from babies to university students,” she says. “That’s something I’m proud of.”
Thank you for so many years of care, laughter, and dedication, Shany! Way to Grow wouldn’t be the same without you as part of our family for all these years. From all of us at Way to Grow—colleagues, families, partners, and leadership—we wish you all the best as you enjoy your well-deserved retirement. We are all better for having known you, and we are so thankful you chose to share so much of yourself with us. Good luck, Shany!
Support Way to Grow’s Mission or Help Carry It Forward
Interested in becoming a Family Educator like Miss Shany? Visit our Careers page to explore open positions and learn how you can make a lasting impact with Way to Grow.
Looking to enroll your child or connect your family with a Family Educator? Get started here to learn more about our programs and how we walk alongside families from pregnancy through third grade.
