Courthouse christian preschool: COURTHOUSE CHRISTIAN PRESCHOOL & AFTERCARE

Опубликовано: November 23, 2022 в 11:21 am

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Категории: Miscellaneous

Staff Family – COURTHOUSE CHRISTIAN PRESCHOOL & AFTERCARE

Donna Spear

Director

Ms. Donna is our Preschool Director.  She has been passionately working in the early childhood field for almost 30 years.  She loves the relationships that are formed with each family, the staff, the church members, and, of course, the children.  She was born and raised in New Jersey, but moved to Virginia 37 years ago with her Navy husband.  After his retirement, they decided to call Virginia Beach home for their son, rescue dog and the sweetest cat ever.  Ms. Donna enjoys reading, gardening and watching her New York Yankees.

Kenda Morris

Assistant Director

If you’ve called our school, had a tour, or paid tuition, you know Ms. Kenda!  Ms. Kenda has been with CCPA for 12 years now and is basically the piece that keeps us all running smoothly.   She’s from Duncan OK, where she earned her Associate’s degree in Secretarial Administration.  She loves that her position lets her get to interact with both the preschoolers and their families.  In her spare time, she enjoys reading, crafting, and spending time with her family.

Julie Riegle

Fine Arts Teacher

Ms. Julie is our Fine Arts teacher.  She first experienced CCPA as a parent, and then joined 13 years ago as a music teacher.  As we have moved toward a Reggio-inspired school, Ms. Julie has added “Fine Arts Teacher” to her resume.  Ms. Julie is originally from Lubbock, TX, and earned her BSEd degree from Texas Tech University.  Upon moving to the Virginia Beach area, she became a kindergarten teacher with Virginia Beach City Public Schools.  After taking a break from teaching to raise her two youngest children for a few years, she enrolled them at CCPA, and joined the staff shortly thereafter.

About her job, Ms. Julie says, “I love that I get to work with all of the children at CCPA.  Their enthusiasm is amazing and fills me up every day.  I love my job and feel I have the best job in the school!”  Ms. Julie also loves spending time with her family at the beach and trying new restaurants.  In addition, she enjoys shopping thrift stores, flea markets, and antique stores to find treasures she can turn into projects.

Two Year Olds

Two, Three and Five Day Classroom

Kaitlyn Simmons

Two Year Old Lead Teacher

Mckenzie Knutson

Two Year Old Assistant Teacher

Tracey Boyett

Two Year Old Assistant Teacher

Ms. Tracey attended Kempsville High School in Virginia Beach and graduated in 1989.  She began working in a Daycare Center locally right after high school. She has been working with children now for over 30 years. She has worked in Family Daycare’s, Private Daycare Centers, and as a Nanny.

She was born and raised right here in Virginia Beach where she lives with her husband of 25 years,  She loves to travel and spend time with her families here in Virginia and Texas. She also loves to read, cook and fish.

Three Year Olds

Five Day Classroom

Mellissa Altemara

Three Year Old Lead Teacher

Ms. Melissa is from Pittsburgh, PA but has lived in Virginia Beach for the last 22 years.  She has earned her Associate’s degree from TCC this past fall, and we are thrilled for her!  She started out as an assistant in the 2 year old room for two years, then moved into a lead position with 3 year olds four years ago.   Her favorite part of teaching is developing relationships with the families and watching the kids develop and grow over the school year.  Ms. Melissa says, “It’s amazing how much they change in nine months!”  In her spare time she enjoys spending time with her family, camping, and scrapbooking.

Christy Straub

Three Year Old Assistant Teacher

Ms. Christy is a mother of three and originally from Murrieta, California.  She began at CCPA as a preschool parent.  All three of her children attended and that where she fell in love with the school and its staff.  Her favorite part of working with children is talking with them and hearing what they think about the world around them.  She also enjoys reading, going to the beach and spending time with her family.

Three Day Classroom

Lindsay Lane

Three Year Co-Lead Teacher

Ms. Lindsay has both her Bachelors degree in Communication with a Minor in Spanish and her Masters degree in Elementary Education from George Mason University.  She taught elementary school in Fairfax County, Virginia for seven years before having children of her own and moving to Virginia Beach.  She and her wonderful husband, Chris, have three children.  Not only is she a teacher at CCPA, but this is her sixth year as a CCPA parent. 

In her spare time, she loves working and volunteering with various children ministry programs.  She also absolutely loves living in Virginia Beach and trying to get in as much beach time as possible!  Her other passions include family time, reading, being outdoors, and running.

Kaitlin Gibson

Three Year Old Co-Lead Teacher

Ms. Gibson has a Bachelors degree in Elementary Education from Lynchburg University.   She is happily married to her husband of 10 years. Together they share three young children. Their first two children both attended CCPA and her third child will begin his first year at our school this Fall. 

Before becoming a mother, she was a full time 2nd grade teacher in the Suffolk Public School System. She took time off to focus on being a mom to her kids, but always missed teaching. She is so excited to be back in the classroom working with you and your sweet children.

Two Day and Three Day Classroom

Kim DeWitt

Three Year Old Lead Teacher

Ms. Kim is originally from Plainfield, IL.  After serving in the Navy as a Hospital Corpsman, she returned home and earned her associates from Joliet Junior College and began pursuing her Bachelors degree.  In 2006, she and her family moved to Virginia Beach.  She has been a Preschool Teacher for over 7 years and also taught in a Spanish Immersion classroom.   When not at school, her family keeps her busy with Band, Girl Scouts and finding different adventures.

Meghan Morris

Three Year Old Assistant Teacher

Ms. Meghan has an Associate’s degree in Liberal Arts, a Bachelor’s degree in English and is currently working on her Master’s of Arts degree in Humanities.  She has also spent many years working with children as a babysitter, mothers helper, and childcare assistant.  

She was born in Millington, Tennessee, but has lived in Virginia Beach for most of her life and considers it her hometown. When not at school, she enjoys spending time with her friends and family, volunteering; making crafts, practicing yoga, and cuddling with her cat, Margie!

Four Year Olds

Five Day Classroom

Jen Kerstiens

Four Year Old Lead Teacher

Ms. Jen grew up in Ann Arbor Michigan and got her Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Indiana University.  She has completed several hours toward a Master’s degree from Mississippi State University as well.  Ms. Jen loves to watch her students learn and to experience the learning process with them.  She enjoys spending time with family and friends, watching CNU women’s soccer, traveling, and reading.

Anne Scalzi

Four Year Old Assistant Teacher

Ms. Anne hails from Linthicum, Maryland.  She received a Bachelor’s of Science in Human Nutrition and Foods.  She is a registered dietician and is currently working on her certification for Early Childhood Education at TCC.  Anne’s favorite part of her job is “working alongside children, talking with them, connecting with them, and seeing the ‘aha’ moments.”  In her off time, Anne loves to focus on her family.

Five Day Classroom

Mary Markland

Four-year Old Lead Teacher

Ms. Mary is from Norfolk, Virginia and has lived in Virginia Beach for 24 years. She attended Mary Washington University and received a BA in English Literature with a teaching certification in PK-4th grade. She has been teaching at CCPA since 2008.  She also has a wonderful husband and three great children.  Outside of school, she loves to travel.

Monica Levow

Four-year Old Assistant Teacher

Ms. Monica has her Masters Degree in Early Childhood Education and is entering her 10th year at CCPA.  She is married with three sweet kids, 2 cats and a dog. She loves spending time with her family and friends, shopping and going to the beach.  She excited to be part of the CCPA family and have fun with the kids!

Three Day Classroom

Stacey O’Connor

Four Year Old Lead Teacher

Ms. Stacey is in her 14th year teaching 4-year- olds at CCPA. She is originally from Massachusetts and received her Bachelors in Psychology from Northeastern University in Boston. The Navy brought her to Virginia Beach almost 25 years ago and it’s now her home!

She loves CCPA because of the wonderful teachers she gets to work with and all the children and families she gets to meet each year. Her favorite part of teaching is seeing the look of excitement on a child’s face when they learn something new or master a task they have been working on. When she is not teaching, she loves to spend time with her family and friends at the beach, reading, traveling and watching her favorite sports teams.

Caroline Hamilton

Four Year Old Assistant Teacher

Ms. Caroline was born and raised in Virginia Beach, Virginia.  She received her Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts with emphasis in Graphic Design from Virginia Commonwealth University.   While working in design, she met and married her Army husband.  They and their two children have lived all over the United States from Seattle, the Midwest, Northern Virginia, and back to Virginia Beach. 

Ms. Caroline began at CCPA, as a preschool parent for two years and then joined us as a staff member in the Twos and now the Fours.  Ms. Caroline loves working with our CCPA family, but most of all she cherishes her time with the children and all their sweet smiles, funny observations and getting messy with Art.  In her spare time, Ms. Caroline enjoys tennis, bike riding, the beach, spending time with her family and walking her big clumsy black Labrador, Finn.

Two and Three Day Classroom

Jenn Kubica

Four Year Old Lead Teacher

Ms. Jenn is in her 13th year of teaching at CCPA.  During this time, she has brought her creative energy to many classrooms.   Currently, she teaches one of our 4-year old classes.  Ms. Jenn is a dynamic teacher who brings a lot of fun and creative activities to the children.  She especially likes to do amazing science experiments in the classroom!  Ms. Jenn is married and has two beautiful daughters and three dogs who keep her very busy.

Brigette Baldwin

Four Year Old Assistant Teacher

Ms. Baldwin has a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree from the University of Southern Mississippi, where she majored in Theatre and Dance.  After college, she worked for Walt Disney World as a
dancer/performer for several years before moving to VA Beach. She was a pre-k teacher at VBUMC for 5 years before becoming a substitute teacher for Virginia Beach City Public
Schools, where she has worked for the past 7 years.

She is originally from New Orleans, but has lived in VA Beach for the past 24 years. Her husband is a retired Navy SEAL and they have a daughter and a son, who both attend JMU, and 2 cats named Lucy and Raven. In her spare time, she can be found choreographing musicals and plays for the Kellam High School Fine Arts Department.

Extended Preschool Care

Donna Newman

Extended Care Program Supervisor 

Ms. Donna joined the CCPA staff in 2013 as a teacher with our Extended Care program.  She was born in Biloxi, MS and moved frequently due to her father being in the Air Force.  She earned a degree in Special Education from Lynchburg College and continued, taking several post graduate classes as well.  Ms. Donna taught junior high/middle school special education classes for several years before joining us at CCPA.  

Ms. Donna’s favorite part of teaching is learning from her students.  When she’s not at school, she enjoys spending time with her family and her dog.   Ms. Donna is also an avid supporter of the American Cancer Society.

Mary Kinsella

Extended Care Preschool Teacher

Ms. Mary is currently enrolled in Tidewater Community College and will receive her associate degree in Early Childhood Education this year.  She is originally from New Jersey and moved to Virginia Beach eight years ago.  She has been with the CCPA family for two years and has learned so much. Her favorite part about teaching is listening to the children tell her about their day and how excited they get from learning something new.

When she is not at school, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends and volunteering for Beach Bags for Kids.  As well as, going to the beach, bike riding, swimming, and
anything outdoors.

Courthouse Academy – Preschool & Private Elementary School Serving Virginia Beach, VA

we’re open!

We are currently open, providing care and education to all students

Summer Camp begins Tuesday, June 21st

we’re OPEN!

We are currently open, providing care and education to all students

Summer Camp begins Tuesday, June 21st

During this difficult time, we continue to fill your child’s day with love, laughter, and bilingual education.

Hear what parents have to say:

Kristi, Chris and Knox

Transitional Twos

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“During this difficult time, Knox’s teachers have been nothing short of absolutely amazing! They ask about Knox all the time! From Ms. Monifah asking about his counting to Ms. Sonia reminding us to dance with Knox and that he likes certain Spanish songs. Knox’s teachers bring him great joy and I know he misses them SO much! We can’t wait to return to work with the peace of mind that our sons life is enriched with love, laughter, and bilingual education. When this all started he would say “Agua” for water and could count to 13! Now he says “water” and counts “1, mommy, baby”. We’re just not as good of teachers! Can’t wait to bring that enrichment back in his life and we miss you guys more than you know! Thank you for ALL that you do and for caring for our son so incredibly much!”

Ethan Cuniff

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Aiden and Ethan Cunniff will be starting back tomorrow. As someone who works in EMS, your facility in my opinion is one of the safest for our children. Thank you for all that you have done to ensure our children can continue to have a “normal” routine for them.

Our mission is to enrich your child’s sense of wonder while nurturing their passion in our fully bilingual English-Spanish school. Your child will graduate not just school ready, but ahead of the curve, in school and in life.








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The Courthouse Academy Difference

This 30 second video provides an at-a-glance overview of Courthouse Academy and what makes us unique.  We’re not your typical daycare, preschool, or elementary school.

“SEC commends Courthouse Academy for their continued commitment to safety and security. As members of the SEC community, they are raising the bar to protect what matters most.”

EDUCATION IS A #1 PRIORITY

Guided by our nurturing, certified, and highly experienced teachers, we foster your child’s educational growth, laying a strong foundation that will give them an edge now and in life.

FULLY BILINGUAL SPANISH

IMMERSION PROGRAMS

A full English and Spanish environment awaits your preschooler or school-age child. Bilingualism has been well documented to be a significant competitive advantage at every stage of life, in school, later in college and getting the best job opportunities.

SOCIAL SKILLS, RESPECT,

AND CONFIDENCE

Education is not just about math, science, art and literature, but also developing critical social skills, and interacting with both other children and adults in a respectful manner. When children have self-esteem and strong social skills, it helps them be confident learners.

PRESCHOOL THAT SETS YOUR CHILD UP

FOR A LIFETIME OF SUCCESS

Through our engaging curriculum and teaching staff, your child will be more than ready for kindergarten and grade school years – either with us and continue their bilingual education or perhaps leading their peers elsewhere.

PERSONALIZED INDIVIDUAL

CHILD CARE & ATTENTION

We strive to provide each student with one-on-one time to monitor their development and work on specific skills. Our goal is personalized care and attention to help your child discover their potential. As a parent, you’ll love the results.

SAFETY FOCUSED

All our teachers are first-aid and CPR certified. The school has an updated readiness plan in case of emergency. Our top priority is always safety first.

Yes, We Offer Tuition Support Options

parent reviews

Yvonne Cook

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Had I known about Courthouse Academy years ago I would have enrolled my son in this school from 1st grade. Courthouse Academy has been a game changer and my son is doing so much better academically. The communication between the staff and parents is mind blowing. I’m sad that he will only get to experience 1 year but at the same time we are grateful for the experience.

Crystal Franklin-Felton

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My twins love this school and can’t wait to go there. Selecting the right school for my children was a difficult decision and an emotional one but, I have to say, I got this decision right! The staff knows my kids, the teachers care and call when there is a concern, and the academics are appropriate and meaningful! I have had a great experience overall and will continue to send my twins to this academy! Keep up the great job and many blessings to your staff!

Alyson Barker Smith

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My daughter has attended school here for three years. We absolutely love the school. She has learned so much here and always has a great time. The activities are varied each day and she has the opportunity to go to dance class, soccer, science classes, and others all the school which is really convenient for working parents. I would highly recommend the school!

Erin Brogan

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Our daughter has been with Courthouse for a year now and we couldn’t be happier! We have nothing but positive things to say about their staff! We were very hesitant to place our daughter in school because of specific medical needs she requires, now we couldn’t imagine her being anywhere else! Our girl loves to count in spanish and enjoys dance class! I do not have enough words to say about Ms. Jacklynn! She is WONDERFUL to our girl and treats her as her own! If we could request her for every grade level we would!!!