2004 Laurel Oaks Early Childhood Education and Clinton Massie graduate, Alea Crosby, headed to college this fall.  She is pursuing her degree in Early Childhood Education and knows her experience at Laurel Oaks helped her forge this path.  “Laurel Oaks gave me a headstart on what I wanted to do,” Alea shared.  “More students need to take the chance,” she continued.  “Great Oaks has so many great programs, and it sets you up for college or whatever you want to do.”  While at Laurel Oaks, Alea gained real-life experience in pre-school and kindergarten settings.  She also worked with her instructor her senior year to help run the on-campus pre-school program.  “Working with Ms. Dare was awesome, “ she shared.  “I relied on her throughout my time at Laurel to be my teacher—and my life mentor.”  This summer, Alea has been working in the Early Childhood Education field at Kindercare on Beechmont, in their toddler program.  To support her educational path, Alea won scholarships from the Ohio Board of Regents and the Great Oaks Education Foundation.  Best of luck to Alea!