First Responders Launch Family-Owned Child Care Center in Bastrop

A new family-run child care facility, Heroic Hearts Academy, has recently opened its doors in Bastrop, Texas, marking a significant addition to the community’s educational landscape. Uniquely operated by a team of first responders, this licensed center is designed to cater to children from infancy up to age 12, providing a holistic approach to child care and development.

Heroic Hearts Academy is co-owned by six family members who serve as emergency medical technicians, paramedics, and law enforcement professionals within Bastrop County. This unique background informs the facility’s commitment not only to child care excellence but also to instilling values of safety and community service in the children they care for.

The facility offers a comprehensive range of programs tailored to various age groups. Infants aged 6 weeks to 12 months can benefit from dedicated infant care, while toddlers aged 12 months to 36 months are engaged through vibrant and stimulating activities. The preschool curriculum encompasses children aged 3 to 5 years, fostering early learning and social skills in preparation for school. Additionally, an after-school program is available for children up to 12 years old, providing a secure environment for academic support and recreational activities.

At present, Heroic Hearts Academy serves students from Colony Oaks Elementary School within the Bastrop Independent School District, with expansion plans underway to reach additional campuses in the area. Brittany Harkins, director and co-owner, expressed enthusiasm about the potential to broaden their service offerings to more schools, further embedding the academy within the community.

The official ribbon-cutting ceremony took place on March 4, 2023, in partnership with the Bastrop Chamber of Commerce. This event not only celebrated the opening of Heroic Hearts Academy but also highlighted the commitment of its owners to fostering supportive relationships within the community.

In a time when the demand for quality child care continues to grow, Heroic Hearts Academy stands out as a facility driven by a passion for community welfare, safety, and developmental education. Its roots in first responder culture may provide a reassuring environment for parents seeking dependable care for their children, all while supporting a business grounded in community values. As the academy looks to expand its reach, it may also contribute significantly to the local economy by creating new jobs and stimulating further development in the Bastrop area.