Apple Ridge Academy

Education: Bachelors Degree in Education from University of Nebraska – Lincoln, with a focus on Inclusive Early Childhood Education; Adult/Pediatric CPR/AED & First Aid; SIDS Prevention; Shaken Baby Syndrome Prevention; Child Abuse & Neglect Recognition & Prevention; numerous hours of additional professional development and training in Early Childhood Education.

Experience:  Worked in campus childcare center for 4 years during college, with infants and preschool age children; Joined the staff at ARA in May 2019.

"I have always had a passion for helping others. I choose to work with children because I love seeing how they grown and change over time. Knowing I helped with that growth brings me joy! I grew up in a small town in Nebraska but am excited to now be a resident of Wisconsin, and be able to spend more time with my fiance. I also have two young nieces that I enjoy spending time with."

Education: Bachelors Degree in Creative Writing from Mount Mary College; EC1&2 from WCTC; Infant/Toddler Credential; Adult/Pediatric CPR/AED & First Aid; SIDS Prevention; Shaken Baby Syndrome Prevention; Child Abuse & Neglect Recognition & Prevention; numerous hours of additional professional development and training in Early Childhood Education.

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Experience: Lisa has been in the EC field since 1999, and has worked with children of all ages, from infant to school age. Joined the staff at ARA in May, 2014. 

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"My husband Mike and I have been married since 2000. We have 3 children: Alex(2004), Catherine(2013), and William(2019). I enjoy reading, scrapbooking, going to concerts and travel - especially to Disney! We live in Muskego."

Education: Early Childhood I & II; Infant and Toddler Certification and Lead Teacher Certificate. Working toward Associates Degree in Human Services; Adult/Pediatric CPR/AED & First Aid; SIDS Prevention; Shaken Baby Syndrome Prevention; Child Abuse & Neglect Recognition & Prevention; numerous hours of additional professional development and training in Early Childhood Education. 

Experience: Jacklyn began here at Apple Ridge Academy, after graduating high school, and has been with us since June of 2017!  

“I’ve loved children since I was little! I love watching them grown and learn new things. I also enjoy helping them learn new things and see them get excited. I enjoy camping but not in a tent. I love animals – especially cats, as I have 2. Trying new things is what I love to do as well. I also can’t wait to travel!”

Education: Bachelor of Science in Sport & Fitness Management from UW-Parkside; Working toward Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education; Adult/Pediatric CPR/AED & First Aid; SIDS Prevention; Shaken Baby Syndrome Prevention; Child Abuse & Neglect Recognition & Prevention; numerous hours of additional professional development and training in Early Childhood Education.

Experience: Over 5 years of experience in the early childhood field, with all age groups. Sam joined the staff at Apple Ridge in March, 2022.

“I’ve always wanted to work with children, which I can only think of the reasoning behind that I had great teachers when I was young. I love the energy kids bring every day and that each day looks so different. Children are often eager to learn and try new things.

I love to read and bake in my spare time. My dogs are my favorite – Harper(lab mix) and Hazel(shepherd mix).”

Education: Early Childhood I & II; Infant and Toddler Certification. Adult/Pediatric CPR/AED & First Aid; SIDS Prevention; Shaken Baby Syndrome Prevention; Child Abuse & Neglect Recognition & Prevention; numerous hours of additional professional development and training in Early Childhood Education.

Experience: 5+ years of experience in childcare settings, with ages 6 weeks through 13 years.  2 years as Infant/Toddler assistant. Joined Apple Ridge in November, 2016.

“I love working with children because it is such a positive environment. What I like most is being a part of, and being present for a child achieving a new goal, or learning something new. I love being outdoors, doing art/creative projects, and being active, as well as spending time with my family.”

Education: Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education from WCTC; Adult/Pediatric CPR/AED & First Aid; SIDS Prevention; Shaken Baby Syndrome Prevention; Child Abuse & Neglect Recognition & Prevention; numerous hours of additional professional development and training in Early Childhood Education.

Experience: 5 years of experience in the early childhood field; Joined the staff at Apple Ridge Academy in November 2019.   

“I chose to work with children because it’s something that I’m naturally good at and very much enjoy. The best thing about working with children is their unpredictability. Each day is different from the last! My husband and I have been married for seven years, and we have three children. Knox, almost 6; Yorke, almost 3; and Harlow, almost 1. Our house is always busy, especially with our dog Henry and our cat, Ralphy. When I have time to myself, I read anything I can get my hands on!”

Education: Adult/Pediatric CPR/AED & First Aid; SIDS Prevention; Shaken Baby Syndrome Prevention; Child Abuse & Neglect Recognition & Prevention; numerous hours of additional professional development and training in Early Childhood Education.

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Experience: 9 years in the early childhood field. Started in 2012, working with 2-year-olds. Since then, worked with Infants, Toddlers, and Twos. Nikki joined the staff at Apple Ridge in September 2021.

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“It amazes me how I am shaping the minds and taking care of children that will one day be taking care of me.  I love that every day is a new adventure.

I love all things Harry Potter. My husband and I have two cats (Winston & Athena) and a dog(Remi) together.”

Education: Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology from Providence College, RI; Infant/Toddler Credential; Administrator Credential; Adult/Pediatric CPR/AED & First Aid; SIDS Prevention; Shaken Baby Syndrome Prevention; Child Abuse & Neglect Recognition & Prevention; numerous hours of additional professional development and training in Early Childhood Education.

Experience: Employed for over 15 years in the childcare field; One of our ‘founding’ staff members, Mara joined Apple Ridge Academy in January, 2010!  

“I first discovered my passion for working with young children after my experience working as a youth coach/mentor in high school. I found the children to be curious and eager to learn as well as genuine and joyful. I strive to provide each child with the unconditional love that they offer and to see the world through the eyes of the children! In my free time, I enjoy being in the outdoors walking my dog, Bella, riding my bike, hiking and camping with friends and family, and working in my yard. I also enjoy reading true stories of survival and watching true crime shows!”

Education: Bachelors degree in English and German from Wisconsin Lutheran College;  Adult/Pediatric CPR/AED & First Aid; SIDS Prevention; Shaken Baby Syndrome Prevention; Child Abuse & Neglect Recognition & Prevention; numerous hours of additional professional development and training in Early Childhood Education.

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Experience: Taught Sunday School, VBS and coached basketball; 4H leader. In the Early Childhood field for just over a year. Rachel joined the staff at Apple Ridge in July, 2021.

“I truly enjoy making a difference in the lives of the children I teach. The 4H motto is to make the best better and that is something I try to do when it comes to teaching”.

“I grew up and still live on a hobby farm which includes sheep, chickens, geese, pigs, two dogs, and a cat. I love living where I live. I also write poetry, novels, short stories, sonnets, etc. And I’m an avid photographer.”

Education: Bachelor of Arts in English; Administrators Credential; Fundamentals of Infant & Toddler Care; WI Model Early Learning Standards, skills & strategies; Adult/Pediatric CPR/AED & First Aid; SIDS Prevention; Shaken Baby Syndrome Prevention; Child Abuse & Neglect Recognition & Prevention; numerous hours of additional professional development and training in Early Childhood Education.

Experience: Has worked in group childcare settings for over 20 years with ages birth to 5 years; Joined the staff at ARA in November 2018.

"I have a genuine love, respect and awe of children and their development! I’m married for 27+ years, and have 3 children, a son-in-law, a dog, and a grand-dog! I love to sing, go to theater and movies, go boating, snowmobiling; I also enjoy church activities and family time."

Education: Associates Degree in Early Childhood from Rasmussen College. Early Childhood I & II; Adult/Pediatric CPR/AED & First Aid; SIDS Prevention; Shaken Baby Syndrome Prevention; Child Abuse & Neglect Recognition & Prevention; numerous hours of additional professional development and training in Early Childhood Education.

Experience: Has worked in the Early Childhood field for over 5 years, in group childcare settings. Has worked with a variety of age groups; but prefers 2’s! Joined the teaching staff at Apple Ridge Academy in December of 2017.

“I have always been passionate about working with children. I love to teach them new things, do art projects, and circle time with them. I love watching them grown and develop each in their own ways, to become well-rounded individuals! I love to dance. I am in an adult dance class at Dance Defined Studio. In my free time, I like to shop, go see movies, and spend time with friends, family, and my fiancé. I have a cat named Bella.”

Education: Bachelors Degree in Sociology from Illinois State University; with emphasis in Psychology and Children’s Studies; Currently pursuing teacher license for Early Childhood Education; Adult/Pediatric CPR/AED & First Aid; SIDS Prevention; Shaken Baby Syndrome Prevention; Child Abuse & Neglect Recognition & Prevention; numerous hours of additional professional development and training in Early Childhood Education.

Experience: Been in the ECE field for more than 5 years, with K-5th Grade; Previously a teacher assistant in Milwaukee Public Schools. Jaymee joined the staff at Apple Ridge in January of 2017.   

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“I didn’t choose to work with children – it chose me! What began as an after school hobby teaching tumbling and dance at my home town park district has developed into a life-long passion to be a positive role model for our youngest learners. My favorite part about working with children is being able to expose and teach them about kindness, empathy, and equality."

Education: Associates degree in General Education from UW-Waukesha; In process of bachelors degree in Community Engagement and Education with Child Care through UW-Milwaukee; Adult/Pediatric CPR/AED & First Aid; SIDS Prevention; Shaken Baby Syndrome Prevention; Child Abuse & Neglect Recognition & Prevention; numerous hours of additional professional development and training in Early Childhood Education.

Experience: About 5 years of experience in the early childhood field, with infants through 2 year olds. Gina joined the staff at Apple Ridge New Berlin in February, 2022.

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“I love children and cannot imagine working anywhere else. I love all the snuggles and helping them learn new things. Every child is different and I love getting to know them individually.

In my free time I like to hang out with my family. My husband and I have two children: Loki & Alia. We also have two cats: Zeke and Gilgi.”

Education: Associates degree in Early Childhood from Waukesha Technical College; Currently pursuing Elementary Education degree at Lakeland University; Adult/Pediatric CPR/AED & First Aid; SIDS Prevention; Shaken Baby Syndrome Prevention; Child Abuse & Neglect Recognition & Prevention; numerous hours of additional professional development and training in Early Childhood Education.

Experience: Has worked in group childcare settings for over 7 years; Joined the staff at ARA in May 2018.

 "For me, choosing a career path in early childhood education has been the most rewarding and meaningful choice. As an early childhood educator, I can shape a child’s future by helping them grow and develop through the years. I enjoy working with children and making a difference in their early education. In my free time I enjoy scrapbooking, eating out, and hanging out with family and friends."

Education: Bachelor of Science degree in Sociology from Carroll University;  Adult/Pediatric CPR/AED & First Aid; SIDS Prevention; Shaken Baby Syndrome Prevention; Child Abuse & Neglect Recognition & Prevention; numerous hours of additional professional development and training in Early Childhood Education.

Experience: Worked with 3 and 4 year-olds in a high school Assistant Childcare Teacher Certification program. Amanda joined the staff at Apple Ridge in September 2021.

“I babysat kids ever since I was 10 years old, and I did this through high school. I loved playing with them - and being there to help them learn and grow was very rewarding. Some kids are struggling at home with not the best care, so if I can make a difference in their lives for just a little while, then it’s all worth it.

I have a family full of fur babies: 2 cats and 1 dog. So most of my free time goes to playing with them. I also love crafting and being with family.”

Education: Bachelor of Science degree in Radio/TV/Film with a minor in Music Industry. Adult/Pediatric CPR/AED & First Aid; SIDS Prevention; Shaken Baby Syndrome Prevention; Child Abuse & Neglect Recognition & Prevention; numerous hours of additional professional development and training in Early Childhood Education.

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Experience: Coached track and soccer; Has worked with children ages 7-14 years old. Jake joined the staff at Apple Ridge in October, 2021.

“I chose to work with children because I love to see how their interests, abilities, and understanding changes over time. To be a part of that process is such a privilege!

My favorite things to do are play and record music! I play guitar, piano, and do my best at singing. I also enjoy being outside and active with my friends and family. I love spending time with my 9 year old brother, Josh, my 11 year old sister Ava, and our energetic dog Lucy!”

Education: Bachelor of Science Degree in Child Development with minors in German and 2D art; Early Childhood I & II; Adult/Pediatric CPR/AED & First Aid; SIDS Prevention; Shaken Baby Syndrome Prevention; Child Abuse & Neglect Recognition & Prevention; numerous hours of additional professional development and training in Early Childhood Education.

Experience: 3 years in professional preschool/4K setting; Over 10 years babysitting and as nanny. Joined the teaching staff Apple Ridge Academy in January 2013!

“I like making bonds with children by creating environments that are safe and inviting. I love to watch them grown and develop friendships, all while discovering their own unique interests. I am the middle child in a family of 3 kids. I’m very interested in Art History. My favorite place to be is near water – boating or relaxing at the beach. I speak German semi-fluently. Early childhood is my passion.” 

Education: Early Childhood I & II; Adult/Pediatric CPR/AED & First Aid; SIDS Prevention; Shaken Baby Syndrome Prevention; Child Abuse & Neglect Recognition & Prevention; numerous hours of additional professional development and training in Early Childhood Education.

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Experience: 3+ years experience in the Early Childhood field, with ages Toddler and older. Marcus joined the staff at Apple Ridge Academy in January 2020.  

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“Children bring so much happiness, most of the time! Plus, the early years in their lives are very important, and I love that I can be a part of it. I am a competitive bodybuilder; I have 2 dogs (Arya & Khaleesi); and I recently moved to the Milwaukee area.”

Education: Pursuing Elementary Education degree from UW-Milwaukee; Adult/Pediatric CPR/AED & First Aid; SIDS Prevention; Shaken Baby Syndrome Prevention; Child Abuse & Neglect Recognition & Prevention; numerous hours of additional professional development and training in Early Childhood Education.

Experience: Caroline is beginning her career in childcare here at Apple Ridge Academy! She joined the staff in December 2021.

“I genuinely enjoy spending time with children and getting to know who they are. Each child is unique and different in their own special way and I love being a part of and helping them grow. A safe and fun environment is so important for kids and I’m excited to be a part of creating that space for them.

I enjoy spending time with my family and hiking with my two dogs Rainn and Eli.”

Education: Child Development Associate Certificate from Ellis University; Early Childhood I & II; Infant and Toddler Certification. Adult/Pediatric CPR/AED & First Aid; SIDS Prevention; Shaken Baby Syndrome Prevention; Child Abuse & Neglect Recognition & Prevention; numerous hours of additional professional development and training in Early Childhood Education.

Experience: 7 years in childcare centers. 6 years as nanny for 3 young children. Joined the teaching staff at Apple Ridge Academy in October of 2012.

“I always wanted to become a teacher, since I was little. After working in the childcare field, I found that I really enjoy the early childhood age group and decided to stick with doing what I love! I love relaxing at home and going to local events with my family. I have an 11 year old son and a 3 month old daughter.”

Education: Currently a student at New Berlin Eisenhower. Planning to pursue a degree in Elementary Education. Adult/Pediatric CPR/AED & First Aid; SIDS Prevention; Shaken Baby Syndrome Prevention; Child Abuse & Neglect Recognition & Prevention; numerous hours of additional professional development and training in Early Childhood Education.

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Experience: Worked as a Day Counselor for the City of New Berlin for 2 summers. Also worked as a tutor for ages 4 -12. Some field experience in a virtual 5th Grade classroom as well as Kindergarten classroom. Sara joined the staff at Apple Ridge in September 2021.

“Ever since I was a little kid, I have wanted to be a teacher and that dream is still here! I love seeing children grow and experience the world around them. Building relationships and learning about others has always been something I love to do and it is most enjoyable with children! I cannot wait to be a part of their journey as they grow!

My family consists of me, my older brother, and my parents. Other than my immediate family, I have a huge family on my mom’s side. I love to sing, bake, and cook, as well as watch movies and hang out with my friends/family.”

Education: Currently a Junior at New Berlin West. Plans to enter the education or childhood psychology field after graduation. Adult/Pediatric CPR/AED & First Aid; SIDS Prevention; Shaken Baby Syndrome Prevention; Child Abuse & Neglect Recognition & Prevention; numerous hours of additional professional development and training in Early Childhood Education.

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Experience: Has several years of babysitting experience with children from infant to 5 years old. Arianna joined the staff at Apple Ridge in October 2021.

“I love being a part of a child’s learning and helping to create a happy and helpful environment. I also love being a part of a child’s new experiences.

I have a super cute dog who loves to watch TV with me and we go on walks to the park and run around.”

Education: Pursuing Early Childhood Education degree from UW-Green Bay; Infant/Toddler Certificate; Assistant Teaching Certificate; Adult/Pediatric CPR/AED & First Aid; SIDS Prevention; Shaken Baby Syndrome Prevention; Child Abuse & Neglect Recognition & Prevention; numerous hours of additional professional development and training in Early Childhood Education.

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Experience: Makayla is beginning her career in childcare here at Apple Ridge Academy! She joined the staff in October, 2020.

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"I choose to work with children because I enjoy watching them succeed. I like being able to give them confidence to grown and try new things as they develop over the years. Working with children is the most rewarding experience because I get to work every day knowing I could have an impact on their life.

During my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends; I have a younger brother with autism and he is also non-verbal. We often spend the weekend outside wither hiking or swimming!”

Education: Degree in Digital Photography; Adult/Pediatric CPR/AED & First Aid; SIDS Prevention; Shaken Baby Syndrome Prevention; Child Abuse & Neglect Recognition & Prevention; numerous hours of additional professional development and training in Early Childhood Education.

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Experience: 6 years’ experience in the Childcare field, with 3 and 4-year-olds; Megan joined the staff at Apple Ridge in August 2021.

“I chose childcare because I wanted something fun and rewarding. I love teaching the children one thing and then watch them use what they’ve been taught.

I live outside Lake Geneva with my husband of almost 7 years, Brendan, and our two boys Berend (4), and Oliver (2.5). We also have a cat named Anya. We enjoy playing outdoors, camping, and just spending all the time we can together!”

Profile coming soon! 

Education: Early Childhood I & II; Infant Development; Adult/Pediatric CPR/AED & First Aid; SIDS Prevention; Shaken Baby Syndrome Prevention; Child Abuse & Neglect Recognition & Prevention; numerous hours of additional professional development and training in Early Childhood Education.

Experience: 10 years of experience, working with children. Operated an in-home daycare for several years, for children ages infant through school age. Has worked with infants, toddlers, and 3 year olds in group child care setting.  Joined the teaching staff at Apple Ridge Academy in August 2015.

“I love doing something that makes a difference. It’s constantly changing and different every day. The best part of working with children is seeing them experience new things and smiling. I am married and have two wonderful daughters, Megan (22 years old) and Jaclyn (17 years old). I also have 2 cats, Snickers and Smudge. I love to go camping, see movies and go shopping!”