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Our Amazing Team
Dedicated Educators, Celebrating Every Child

Mrs. Charmaine Barnett
Director
A lifelong advocate for children and families, Mrs. Barnett brings over 25 years of experience as a Registered Nurse with the NYC Department of Education. She founded KinderAcademy in 2014 and continues to guide its mission remotely—ensuring every child receives the care, support, and early education they deserve.

Mrs. Carla Lake
Assistant Director
With over 18 years of leadership experience in early childhood and special education, Mrs. Lake oversees the daily operations at KinderAcademy. She works closely with staff, parents, and children to maintain a smooth, supportive, and nurturing environment across all departments. Her leadership ensures that every day runs with purpose and care.

Ms. Keisha Marston
Principal & Special Education Teacher
Ms. Keisha Marston holds a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Special Education and brings strong expertise in inclusive teaching. As our in-house Special Education Teacher, she collaborates with staff to ensure children with special needs receive the personalized support they deserve.
Her strong sense of purpose helps shape a learning space where all children are celebrated and included.

Ms. Beverley Mitchell
Lead Teacher, Nursery Department
Ms. Beverley Mitchell is a certified Early Childhood Educator and Lead Teacher for our Nursery Department, including the Lil Explorers class for 2-year-olds. With over 7 years at KinderAcademy, she brings consistency, care, and expertise to our youngest learners.
Her calm, nurturing approach supports each child’s growth and development, making her a trusted and beloved member of our team.

Ms. Deborah Brown
Senior Certified Caregiver
Ms. Deborah Brown is a certified Infant and Toddler Caregiver with over 30 years of experience, including more than a decade working in a children’s home. She brings warmth, dependability, and deep nurturing to our nursery team, offering attentive care to infants and toddlers. Her passion for early childhood development is rooted in both her formal training and her strong foundation in faith and family.

Mrs. Lisa Harrison-Brown
Preschool Teacher – Young Innovators (3-Year-Olds)
Mrs. Lisa Harrison-Brown is a certified Early Childhood Educator and the dedicated teacher of our Buddy Bears preschool class for 3-year-olds. With a patient and playful approach, she helps young learners build confidence, independence, and a love for learning through hands-on exploration and joyful routines.

Ms. Melissa Baker
Assistant Teacher, Nursery Department
Ms. Melissa Baker is a certified Early Childhood Educator who plays a vital role in our Nursery Department. With a warm heart and attentive nature, she provides loving, hands-on care to infants and toddlers during their most important developmental years.
Melissa is dedicated to creating a safe, nurturing space where each child feels secure, comforted, and encouraged to explore the world around them.

Ms. Shaneque Mckenzie
Enrichment Educator
Aunty Shan brings warmth, creativity, and energy to KinderAcademy as our Enrichment Instructor. Starting as a caregiver, she quickly found her passion in leading engaging activities that spark joy and curiosity—like music, movement, and arts & crafts. Loved by children and staff alike, her dedication ensures every child feels inspired, included, and excited to learn.

Ms. Ty Boothe
Pre-Kindergarten Teacher
Ms. Ty Boothe is a passionate early childhood educator and a graduate of Northwestern University, where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education. She brings energy, creativity, and a love for learning to the Pre-K classroom.
Ty is committed to supporting each child’s growth through play-based learning and positive connections, and she looks forward to partnering with families as part of the KinderAcademy team.

Mrs. Winsome Taylor
Culinarian
Ms. Winsome Taylor brings over 10 years of culinary experience and a deep love for children to her role as KinderAcademy's school cook. Known for her warm personality and delicious, nutritious meals, she plays an essential role in keeping our little learners happy, healthy, and energized throughout the day.
With a strong commitment to hygiene, quality, and taste, Ms. Taylor takes pride in preparing meals that not only nourish growing bodies but also bring smiles to young faces. She is a valued member of our team and a daily source of comfort and care in the canteen.

Mr. Ainsworth Stewart
Facility Manager
Since 2024, Mr. Stewart has been the steady hand keeping KinderAcademy running smoothly behind the scenes. From fixing and maintaining our buildings to ensuring classrooms and play areas are safe and welcoming, he takes great pride in his work. Always willing to lend a hand, Mr. Stewart’s reliability and care make him a trusted part of our school family, helping create the secure, nurturing environment our children deserve.