Dr. Mary Ann Shallcross Smith, Ed.D.
Known to most as "Dr. Day Care," Mary Ann is very involved in the care and education that is provided each and every day to the children in her child care sites. She began her career as an early childhood and school age professional in 1972, when she started her home based day care in Lincoln, RI when her son was born.
During her business career, she attended the Community College of Rhode Island, University of Rhode Island and Rhode Island College. She received her doctorate degree in Education (Ed.D.), Leadership and Human Development Studies in 1995 from Nova Southeastern University.
Dr. Shallcross Smith founded the group Rhode Island Business Owners of Child Care Association (BOCA) to advocate for child care and education with child care owners across the state. This group works with state regulatory agencies to help shape the future of the child care business in Rhode Island. By working together, child care owners can make a positive impact for the children in Rhode Island.
In 2015, Mary Ann wrote her first children's book called Edgar Graduates, about the milestones a child achieves prior to preschool graduation and future educational opportunities. By valuing and talking about the possibility of continued education, it becomes more attainable for all children. Education is so important- it opens the door to many possibilities. Edgar Graduates will help families have conversations about educational options. We are proud to offer this book to each of our Preschool graduates as a special reminder of their time at Dr. Day Care.
Dr. Shallcross Smith co-founded EnrichEd, a 501(c) 3 non-profit school age program, located in various schools throughout Rhode Island. She also manages EnhancEd Support Services, a program that provides the foundation for children to learn, socialize, and play alongside their typically developing peers. EnrichEd, EnhancEd, and NurturEd are all managed and overseen by EdCentral, our home office located in Rhode Island.