Welcome to More than a Frog!

Laurie Metcalfe is a longtime early childhood education leader, trainer, and community advocate in Vermont. She is the Executive Director of Northshire Day School, a 5-STAR licensed early childhood program serving children and families across the Northshire region. Laurie brings more than two decades of experience in early learning, program leadership, family engagement, and educator professional development.

Laurie is a HOPE (Healthy Outcomes from Positive Experiences) Champion and Training Facilitator who integrates strengths-based, trauma-informed, and relationship-centered practices into both classroom and leadership work. Her teaching is grounded in the belief that positive relationships, supportive environments, meaningful engagement, and emotional growth are essential for children—and for the educators who support them.

She is also a Certified Zentangle® Teacher (CZT 37) and community-minded facilitator who brings people together through creativity, connection, and simple, mindful art. Her Zentangle® workshops are grounded in the belief that creativity can be deeply restorative. Through simple, guided patterns and a gentle, one-stroke-at-a-time approach, participants are invited to slow down, release stress, and reconnect with themselves in a calm, supportive space. The practice encourages focus, presence, and self-compassion, making Zentangle® accessible and meaningful for people of all ages and artistic backgrounds.

Laurie is known for creating warm, inclusive learning environments where participants feel comfortable, supported, and inspired. She is a professional trainer, communities of practice facilitator, a leader, a mentor and an advocate for children, families and educators. 

Laurie holds a B.A. in Psychology and Special Education and an M.A. in Education. She is currently working on her Certificate in Early Education Leadership through Harvard University and is a participant in the 2025–2026 Educator’s Neighborhood through the Fred Rogers Institute. She is a 2016 graduate of the Snelling Center for Government Early Childhood Leadership Institute, a Level V Teacher and Master Instructor through Northern Lights at the Community College of Vermont, a 2017 recipient of the Let’s Grow Kids Early Childhood Action Hero Award, and a 2023 recipient of the Vermont Association for the Education of Young Children Outstanding Member Award.