About
Built on warmth, language, and play
Pikin Dem Academy was founded by Portland parents who wanted a warm, multilingual home-away-from-home for the city's youngest children.
Our Mission
At Pikin Dem Academy, our mission is to provide a safe, nurturing, and inclusive learning environment where every child is cherished, empowered, and inspired to reach their full potential. We are committed to promoting academic growth, creativity, cultural diversity, and meaningful partnerships with families. Through high-quality early childhood education, we help children build the confidence, skills, and strong foundation needed for lifelong learning and success.
Our Vision
At Pikin Dem Academy, our vision is to become a leading and culturally responsive early learning organization where every child is valued, supported, and empowered to thrive. We aim to expand access to high-quality, inclusive early childhood education that celebrates diversity, strengthens families, and prepares children to become confident, compassionate, creative, and lifelong learners who make a positive difference in their communities.
Our Team
Meet our experienced and caring educators, representing the diverse communities of Portland. Our multilingual team speaks Farsi, Spanish, Hindi, and English, helping every child and family feel welcomed, understood, and supported.
Our people
Meet our team
The caregivers, teachers, and leaders who make Pikin Dem feel like home for Portland families.
Hadiatu Johnson
Founder & Director
Early childhood educator with 15+ years in Portland classrooms.
Dema
Early Childhood Education Director
Dema is an experienced early childhood education director with 24 years in the field. She is passionate about helping children develop creativity, confidence, and critical-thinking skills.
Yazmin Aceves
Early Childhood Educator
Yazmin is a caring, patient, and joyful educator who is passionate about supporting children with kindness, respect, and love.
Licensed & certified in Oregon
Our centers are licensed by the Oregon Early Learning Division, and our family child care home is certified. We follow rigorous health, safety, and ratio standards.
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