How One Moment Shaped a Lifetime of Compassionate Teaching

As a young military child attending school in the Philippines, Jeanne Hitchcock had an experience that would shape her entire philosophy on early childhood education. Faced with a duck coloring sheet and unsure of the teacher’s instructions due to a language barrier, Jeanne quietly asked a classmate for help. The teacher, misunderstanding the situation, snapped, “No talking!” and turned over Jeanne’s duck coloring sheet, denying her the chance to participate.

Jeanne was devastated.

Decades later, that moment still guides her approach. Now the owner and director of Along the Way and Along the Way Learning Childcare Centers in Jackson County, Florida, Jeanne often reminds her teachers:
“Don’t turn over their duck.”

It’s a call to be patient, empathetic, and responsive—to see each child as an individual, especially when they’re struggling to find their place.

A Legacy of Learning Through Play

With 38 years of experience in early childhood education, Jeanne has operated four centers over her career, including two current ones in Jackson County, one in Cottondale, and one in Marianna. Both of her current centers have scored above expectations with the Division of Early Learning (DEL), a reflection of her and her teachers’ commitment to excellence.

At Along the Way, Jeanne’s philosophy centers on play-based learning. Children are encouraged to explore, imagine, and grow in an environment that fosters kindergarten readiness skills such as:

• Self-independence
• Respect for others
• Knowing their full names
• Sharing and cooperation
• Positive peer interaction
• And most importantly, “finding their place”

Her grandson is currently enrolled at the center, continuing a tradition that now spans four generations of families served.

Parent Perspectives

For over three decades, Along the Way Childcare Center has been more than just a place for children—it’s been a foundation for lifelong learning and a second home for families.

“Along the Way wasn’t just a place for my girls,” shared Tina Bigale, whose daughters Carlee and Megan attended from 1994 to 1998. “It was a place that set the foundation for a lifetime of learning.”

That legacy continues today. ELCNWF CCR&R Specialist Daryan Tennant reflects on her own family’s experience:

“My daughter had never been in formal childcare before VPK, and I am forever grateful I chose Along the Way. The play-based curriculum has been wonderful—she’s learning so fast and has grown into a confident little girl in just under six weeks! Mrs. Cara and Mrs. Sandra welcomed her with open arms, and Mrs. Jeanne has created something truly magical here. This center is part of early learning history, and my family is proud to be part of it.”

From past to present, Along the Way continues to shape young lives with care, connection, and a deep commitment to early learning.

Years of Experience

One of the many heartwarming stories from Along the Way is that of Cara Kostovic, a VPK teacher who was part of the very first VPK class 20 years ago. Today, she teaches the next generation of learners, embodying the values Jeanne has instilled in her centers from the beginning.

Early Learning Educators Linda Street and Sandra Shack add to the roster with decades of experience and impact on their communities. Rachel Slack manages Along the Way Learning and has over 15 years experience. The love this staff has for the children they guide and nurture is evident.

Leadership Beyond the Classroom

Jeanne’s impact extends beyond her centers. She serves as a board member for the Early Learning Coalition of Northwest Florida (ELCNWF), where she advocates for policies and practices that support children, families, and educators across the region.

Her work is more than a profession—it’s a mission. And for the families of Jackson County, Jeanne Hitchcock is more than a director—she’s a guiding light.