Amanda O. Morton has dedicated her career to strengthening the field of early childhood education through her visionary leadership at Cradlerock Children’s Center. As executive director, she has shaped the center into a trusted and innovative hub for young learners and their families. She oversees daily operations with a focus on quality, ensuring that lesson planning, parent communications and staff development all work together to create an environment where children thrive. Her approach blends compassion with strategy, making the center a model of excellence in early learning.
Building on a strong academic foundation, Ms. Morton earned a Bachelor of Science in business management and accounting from Brighton Metropolitan College, equipping her with skills in data management, planning and organizational design. This background allows her to approach the center’s operations with precision and vision, ensuring that business systems support the mission of education
Ms. Morton’s journey at Cradlerock reflects a deep, personal commitment to the mission of the organization. She began as a volunteer aide, gaining firsthand experience in classrooms and supporting early childhood programming. From there, she advanced to administrative director, where she managed daily operations and guided staff growth. These roles gave her valuable insight into the needs of educators, children and families, perspectives that now guide her work as executive director.
Cradlerock Children’s Center has achieved significant recognition and growth. It was honored with an executive proclamation from Dr. Calvin Ball, acknowledging its vital contributions to the community. Under Ms. Morton’s direction, the center also launched a pioneering apprenticeship program in partnership with Howard Community College. This initiative provides practical training for future educators and has drawn attention as a model for building the next generation of early childhood professionals.
One of Ms. Morton’s most defining moments as a leader came during the COVID-19 pandemic. Faced with a complete shutdown, she saw the crisis as an opportunity to rebuild stronger. Working closely with her staff, she restructured the organization’s infrastructure, processes and culture. Within weeks of reopening, the center returned to full capacity, with a waiting list of families eager to enroll. Beyond operational success, this transformation created a culture of resilience and high standards that continues to shape the center today.
While her leadership has strengthened the organization, Ms. Morton is quick to highlight the dedication of her staff. She credits the teaching team for their creativity and commitment, noting that their daily efforts are at the heart of the center’s reputation. She believes strongly in empowering her educators, offering professional development opportunities and celebrating their contributions to the lives of children and families..
Beyond her role at Cradlerock, Ms. Morton remains engaged with the wider community. She is an active member of the Columbia-Patuxent Rotary Club and works with the Maryland State Department of Education to support early learning initiatives. Her advocacy extends to shaping policy discussions, where she emphasizes the importance of elevating early childhood education in state and national priorities.
Looking ahead, Ms. Morton envisions expanding Cradlerock Children Center’s role as a leader in the field by piloting innovative programs and promoting greater recognition for early educators. She hopes to influence public policy so that children everywhere have access to high-quality early learning during their most formative years. Through her work, she continues to demonstrate that early childhood education is not only the foundation of individual growth but also of stronger communities.