Dandelion Discovery Center was founded by Betsy Garthe-Shiner in 2024 with the heartfelt intention of providing the Northport and surrounding communities with high-quality mixed age childcare. Growing up in the community of Northport, Betsy’s first teaching experiences took place during her time as an aide for Margie Tropf in Northport Public Schools kindergarten in 2007. Betsy pursued her passion for education by studying Education, ultimately earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Child Development in 2013 from Michigan State University. During her academic career, she gained valuable experience in both public elementary schools and in the MSU Lab Preschools. Through these enriching experiences, she had the opportunity to meet and interact with a variety of inspiring, world-class teachers leading her to realize her passion for working with the youngest learners. Young children express contagious wonder and curiosity about the world around them.

Throughout her years teaching, Betsy dedicated time to several Reggio Emilia Inspired settings located in Lansing, MI, as well as a charming Waldorf school in Maui, Hawaii. Additionally, she engaged in play-based programs that drew from the Tools of the Mind approach in Haines, Alaska, and the Creative Curriculum at Leelanau Children’s Center in Leland, MI. Throughout her dynamic teaching career, she has immersed herself in continual professional development and has found a profound well of inspiration and knowledge through her studies. She has studied virtually with esteemed educators from all over the globe; some of her biggest influences include the founder of the Child-Led Mastery Academy and Fairydust Teaching, Sally Haughey, play advocate Kristen Day (formerly Kristen RB Peterson), and risky-play expert Rusty Keeler.

It is Betsy’s greatest joy to have returned to her hometown and have the opportunity to share her love of early childhood education with the Northport, Leelanau Township and the surrounding communities.