8 AM - 4:30 PM
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Eagle Creek Academy ~ Our Teachers
Our teachers...
√ Average 15+ years teaching in their own classrooms
√ Form close bonds with the children and their families
√ Organize children into small groups so we can teach them at their level
√ Integrate computers and other technology into classroom lessons
√ Plan many hands-on activities
√ Average 15+ years teaching in their own classrooms
√ Form close bonds with the children and their families
√ Organize children into small groups so we can teach them at their level
√ Integrate computers and other technology into classroom lessons
√ Plan many hands-on activities
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Mrs. Teresa Larson - 5th grade
I have taught and tutored children from infancy to 12th grade since 2006. I truly believe that a child’s social, emotional, and physical development are just as important as his academic learning, and that a healthy, happy, and confident child will be a successful child. One of my goals is to encourage children to analyze problems, make decisions, and try out various solutions. I also have a passion for creating engaging science lessons. The way I see it, personal discovery is the cornerstone of learning. I look forward to helping your child along his path.
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Mrs. Jenny Chen - 4th grade
In second grade, I knew I wanted to be a teacher. After learning all day, I would come home and read to my sister. Now, both of us are teachers. After getting my bachelor's degree, I went to Shanghai, China, where I taught children from all over the world for four years. It was a true growing experience for me. When I came home, I taught in Detroit for five years. One thing I have learned is that no matter where you are in the world, you can make a difference. In my free time, I love to travel, read, cook, take pictures, sing karaoke, and ride my bike. I am excited to meet you!
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Mrs. Kelsey Heath - 3rd grade
When I graduated from high school, I decided to experience more of the world. I my time traveling, coaching, taking classes, working in the inner city, and exploring different cultures. When I started seeing places that I had read about for years, my passion for learning came alive, and I became more excited to share it with students. I want my students to feel the way I felt standing at the docks in Valdez, exploring Windsor Castle, or walking through villages in Zambia. When decided to settle down, I went back to school for a master's degree in teaching. In my free time, I love to hike, kayak, and go on walks. I also enjoy working in the yard and in the garden, sitting around the fire, and eating dinner outside.
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Mrs. caroline lewicky - 4th grade
I became passionate about education when I started working as a preschool teacher in an international school in Istanbul, Turkey, over twenty years ago. Since then, I have taught preschool through fifth grade. One of my favorite positions was working as a technology integration specialist for four years, modeling the use of instructional technology to enhance student learning. I am always looking for ways to make learning come alive. Its my favorite way to teach!
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Mrs. cathie Passon - 2nd grade
When I was in fourth grade at St. Anne’s, I decided I was going to be a teacher. My teacher was an inspiration, because she made learning meaningful and enjoyable at the same time. Over the years, I have taught second, fourth, and fifth grades and special education. One highlight was implementing the new elementary science curriculum at Akiva Day School. Another was starting at Eagle Creek in 2011. One of my personal goals is to encourage students to take responsibility for their learning and develop pride in their work. Another personal goal is to find unique ways to celebrate each child's family and heritage. Every year, I get excited about working with new students and their families.
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Mrs. Nicole Minton - 1st grade
Before coming to Eagle Creek in 2012, I was an academic specialist, finding new ways to present challenging material to small groups of students. I have also worked in a clinic with students who are on the autism spectrum. That was very rewarding, because I was able to help them find ways to communicate and grow. One of my passions is building a classroom into a community. As a mother myself, I believe wholeheartedly in connecting and communicating with parents. I can’t wait to get to know you and your children!
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Mrs. Stephanie Pinson - kindergarten
When I was a child, I would rush home from school and play teacher. In college, I tried to go the business route, but I couldn't see myself sitting at a desk all day. Changing my major to education was one of the best decisions I have ever made. For many years, I taught at Walton Charter Academy and Alpine Academy. I have been at Eagle Creek since 2005, teaching fourth grade and Kindergarten. I love coming to work every day. I am a big believer in active, hands-on learning, and I like finding new ways to get the children on their feet. My favorite part of teaching is seeing the children's growth from the beginning of the year to the end of the year. I'm eager to meet your child and help him on his way!
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Mrs. lisa leighty - kindergarten
I knew as a teenager that my calling in life was to be a teacher of young children, and I am grateful that I have been able to fulfill my dream. For thirteen years, I taught preschool and kindergarten at Discovery Montessori in Grand Blanc. Then, for ten years, I was a teacher and program director at Creative Learning Academy in Flint. Finally, in 2016, I came to Eagle Creek. I think of learning as an adventure, full of opportunities to discover the world. One of my favorite things is to plan new challenges and help the children investigate, practice and master them. My hope is that each child will develop a true desire to learn as much as he can. Loving school is so important! In my spare time, my husband and I enjoy biking, watching our three children play sports, and having family movie nights.
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Mrs. Jenn Devine - young fives
I have been working with children as a preschool teacher, a Kindergarten teacher, a special education teacher, and a mentor for at-risk students since 1997. My passion is three- to five-year-old children, because they make me smile, they keep me guessing, and they learn so quickly. I enjoy creating challenging learning opportunities in the classroom and in the natural world. For example, one of my favorite activities is studying animal footprints in the snow. When I am not teaching, I can be found somewhere in nature with my husband and three daughters. I love to camp, hike and practice mindfulness, and I take a yoga class on occasion.
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Mrs. Jen Cattel - Preschool
I began my teaching career in a parochial school in Royal Oak where I taught second grade for six years. I then stayed home to raise my own children. When my youngest started kindergarten, I became a substitute teacher and then took the leap and taught preschool for Rochester Community Schools, where I taught three- and four-year-old classes. When I first started teaching, preschool was not on my radar, but now I am hooked! I love the awe the children show when they make discoveries. Their joy makes me excited to come to school every day! In my spare time, my husband and I love being with our three children, watching their sports, and traveling. I'm happy to meet you soon!
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Mrs. mandy geyer - preschool
Because I was a child who struggled in school, I have always wanted to create a fun and safe place for children to learn and grow. I began my journey in education in 2007 working at a childcare. After that, I became a first and second grade teacher. Later, I was blessed with the opportunity to help open a Montessori preschool at ASU Preparatory STEM Academy in Arizona, where I worked for eight years. During my years there, I learned how important it is to prepare lessons that meet each child at a personal level. I look forward to learning all about your child. Let’s make each year the best year ever!
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Mrs. Angela Andrews - Preschool
Families are the most important teachers in a child’s life, and I am honored to be the second. When I had my first child, I decided to open a home daycare and preschool. For 18 years, I taught children of all ages, including summer camp with school-age children. Through a mixture of fun, enthusiasm, and curiosity, I enjoy shaping a positive first experience. I love connecting with children and seeing the world through their eyes. In that way, I am learning right along with them. In my personal time, I explore nature by rock-hunting, hiking, and biking.
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Mrs. Maureen Munford - Co-teacher
Since 2013, I have taught numerous K-8 subjects, including technology, library, media, and study skills. I've really enjoyed my recent experience with online education. Just like in-person school, online school requires a balance. For example, I enjoy combining academics and creativity. I also like adding in some fun. You may even see my pet bearded dragon featured in a lesson or two! In my spare time, I enjoy singing, cooking, reading, cross-stitching, and playing video games with friends. I'm eager to learn about your children's interests, too. Let's get going!
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Ms. Laura wass - Co-teacher
As a working artist with a deep love of learning, becoming an art teacher was a natural choice for me. Before joining Eagle Creek, I taught at Hamtramck Schools, Roseville Schools, and a Montessori school. I also teach at Painting with a Twist. I believe studying art teaches children risk-taking, openness, and the joy of discovery. In my spare time, I enjoy painting, playing the ukulele, and traveling. I look forward to each new school year and the chance to explore the world in new ways with your children.
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Mrs. Laura Lutey - co-teacher
I aspired to be a teacher starting in elementary school, and I am fortunate to be able to live that dream every day. While pursuing my bachelor's degree, I worked for the Rochester Community Schools School-Age program for four years. After that, since 2011, I have been working at Eagle Creek Academy and Alpine Academy with a wonderful team of teachers and administrators. I love all age groups. It's so much fun to get to know the children and watch their personalities develop.
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Mrs. lucy Balza - co-teacher
I am from Venezuela, and I have been living in the United States since 2003. Before joining Eagle Creek Academy in 2017, I worked at International Academy East for three years teaching and tutoring Spanish. I really enjoy working with children. Their smiles fill me every day with joy. I love what I do! I am also a synchronized swimming coach for Troy Synchro Sharkettes. I love swimming, running and spending time with my husband and twin daughters. Please stop by and say, "Hola!" |
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Mrs. Diana Hay - Co-teacher
Hi! I grew up in Oxford, Michigan, right around the corner. I earned my first degree in social work, and now I'm working on a degree in early childhood education. I've been teaching since 2011. One goal as a teacher is to get to know YOU and your family. This guides me as I help your children develop. I have traveled to and lived in many places, including Colorado, California, and briefly England. I have two boys, Cameron and Lucas, who keep me moving and exploring. I also love Thai food, hiking, camping, biking, autumn, math and the color blue. How about you?
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Mrs. kRISTINA RICHARDS - Co-teacher
My father was a teacher; however, I was more interested in math and science, so I studied to become a mechanical engineer. After working for GM and Delphi for many years, I left to be home with my young children, especially since my husband's job was moving us frequently (from Ohio to Michigan to Shanghai, China). When my kids were in school, I enjoyed volunteering in their classrooms. After they went off to college, it was an easy transition for me to become a substitute teacher. I have been subbing at Eagle Creek since 2017, and I am delighted to now be a permanent co-teacher. In my free time I enjoy running, traveling, and reading.
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