Dr. Ashley St. John and Dr. Nicole Heal founded Skills for Life to address a critical need for early childhood special education services in southern Maine. Their South Portland preschool provides specialized education and early intervention for young children with developmental disabilities.
Both founders brought extensive experience to the venture. Nicole has worked in behavior analysis, linical leadership, research, and professional training. Ashley holds a doctorate in developmental psychology and is a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst with experience developing clinical systems and supporting staff. The two previously worked together at a special purpose private school, where Nicole served as Ashley’s mentor.
Ashley and Nicole wanted to create a preschool where they could utilize their combined skills and knowledge to ensure that every student received compassionate, evidence-based instruction. Building the organization from the ground up was rewarding, but it also meant taking responsibility for financial planning, funding, operations, and every other part of the launch.
Ashley contacted Maine SBDC after her husband recommended the program through a personal connection. Business Advisor Peter Harriman helped the founders examine their financial projections, revise their pro formas, and explore different funding models. His ongoing availability also gave them confidence as new questions emerged.
“SBDC was so instrumental. Knowing that Peter was there to answer our questions and meet when things came up was such a feeling of security,” Ashley said.
This financial preparation became especially valuable when Skills for Life was ready to pursue financing. Peter helped Ashley and Nicole refine their projections so they could approach the loan process with clear, well-supported numbers. Skills for Life ultimately worked with CEI to secure its loan. The founders also participated in CEI’s Child Care Lab, which provided additional resources for launching the preschool.
“When it came time to applying for a loan, we were 100% ready to go,” Ashley said.
Skills for Life plans to open its doors to students in Fall 2026 and eventually serve 36 children at its South Portland building. The preschool and its mission were also featured on News Center Maine in July 2026 as Ashley and Nicole prepared for the opening. They remain focused on providing high-quality education, supporting their staff, and building a program that gives young children the individualized services they need.
They are currently accepting applications for new students! To learn more or enroll, reach out to Ashley (ashley.stjohn@skillsforlifemaine.com) or Nicole (nicole.heal@skillsforlifemaine.com) or call 207-248-8517.