Our Team
The Dedicated Team at Learning Tree Academy
At Learning Tree Academy, we understand that a nurturing environment is essential for early learning success. We are proud to contribute to the South Haven and La Porte, Indiana communities, where our commitment to fostering young minds is unwavering. We take pride in having a highly qualified team of educators who dedicate their passion and expertise to the development of our students. Here’s why our team is invaluable to your child’s educational journey.
Commitment to Professionalism and Expertise
Our educators are not just caregivers; they are highly qualified professionals committed to early childhood education. Each member of our team has training and experience in nurturing young learners. This educational background allows us to implement evidence-based practices that support your child’s developmental and educational milestones.
Personalized Attention for Individual Growth
We believe in the power of personalized learning. Our small room sizes ensure that every child receives the individual attention they deserve. This is crucial for infants and toddlers, as they are typically experiencing rapid developmental milestones, but equally as important for our older kids as well. Our dedicated teachers take the time to understand each child’s strengths, interests, and areas for development.
Meet the Team
Our South Haven Location
Hanna
I’m Miss Hanna and I’m 21 years old! I work with three/four-year-olds. I have worked with kids for two years and I’m pursuing my education at Ivy Tech for Early Childhood Education. My favorite thing to do in my free time is travel!
Olivia
My name is Olivia. I’m 24. I work in the preschool room! I’ve worked with three-year-olds for four years. I’m continuing my education in Criminal Justice. In my free time, I like to bake and watch movies!
Abbi
My name is Abigail (Abbi) Jablonski, I am a recent PHS grad and looking to gain some experience in the education field. Currently, I am working with kids ages five to 12, in the school-age room. Fall of 2024, I will be attending Valparaiso University to major in Elementary Education and minor in Psychology. In my spare time, I also help coach cheer teams and enjoy time with my family!
Yolanda
My name is Yolanda, and I have been working with children for almost ten years — only taking a break to have my own two. My oldest daughter is five and my toddler is two. I’ve worked with all ages, with one- and two-year-olds being my absolute favorite. I am currently studying to get my CDA with the goal of getting a Bachelor's in Early Childhood. When I have free time I love to be outdoors, whether it’s taking the kiddos to the park, reading a book outdoors, or going on a hike.
Lizette
My name is Ms.Lizette. I’ve been in childcare for a year now. I’ve always known since high school, I wanted to work with kids. Actually, childcare was my first job ever. I currently work in the 2-year-old room “Apple” the same age I worked my last job. Something about 2 year olds, they're little but so energetic. I currently want to go to school for my CDA in childcare and I’m also CPR certified.
Melissa
My name is Melissa Hultquist and I’m a teacher in the one-year-old classroom. I’m 44, have two grown children, and grew up in South Haven. I love art, music, and being creative. This is my first time working in daycare. I’m thoroughly enjoying working with children and being able to be a positive influence in their lives as well! I’m looking forward to growing my career in Early Childhood Education and plan to get my CDA.
Megan
My name is Megan. I am a teacher in the Pear Room. I am 36 years old, and I have been working with children for 13 years. I have my Associate's Degree in Elementary Education. I got married on October 12, 2013. When I’m not at work I enjoy spending time with my husband and our two dogs.
Meet the Team
Our La Porte Location
Corie - Director
Hi! I'm Corrine Spurrier, the director here at LTA! It has been an absolute joy becoming a part of the LaPorte community! A little about me, My husband Chris and I have been married now for 4 years and together for 10! I have three of my own children and two bonus kiddos! I am also blessed to be Grammie to one granddaughter! I graduated from Purdue in 2005 with a degree in elementary education! I taught 3rd grade and combined 1st and 2nd grades! Education and working with kids has always been my passion, and it is my honor to be here to nurture and guide during the early stages!
Stef - Assistant Director
Hi, Im Stefanie Gurband! I have worked in this building for 32 yearsI have worked all positions: Director, Assistant Director, Lead and Assistant Teacher, and daycare chef! I have been happily married for 27 years and have one daughter, who also works here! I love working in this field because there is never a dull moment. I love getting to know the parents and watching the kids grow up!
Casey - Human Resources Admin
Hi Im Casey Combs! I have 10 years experience in childcare! I have an Associates in Elementary Education and an Associates in Early Childhood Education! I have been married for two years to my husband, Travis. I have an amazing step daughter who has a set of twins, Kinsley and Brantley!
Kelly - Infants - Elms/Redbuds
Hi! I'm Kelly, the lead teacher for our infant classrooms. I've worked in childcare for over 20 years. I'm married and have a sweet 7 year old son. I love watching the babies grow and learn over the months and years that they are here.
Amanda - 1's - Buckeyes
Hello! I'm Amanda Danko, the lead teacher in the Buckeyes room. I'm married and have an amazing daughter and multiple fur babies as well . I'm a homebody who is very family oriented. So much happens in a 1 year olds world and I love to see the kids reach new milestones.
Leila - 2's - PawPaw
Greetings 🤗 My name is Leila Kensey, I am 22 and just moved to Indiana this past fall 🍂 I love to write, read, and stay active! Love to hike and kayak ⛰️🌊 I have a younger sibling, and it was through her I developed the zest to help children grow the be the best they want to be! I love seeing them understand who they are, their world, and the creations they make!🌟💚🎨 I'm currently the lead in our PawPaws room and working on my CDA! It's been an amazing journey learning about the children in my class 😊💛
Marissa - 2½-3½ - Maples
Hi! My names Marissa Lingle, I’m the lead teacher in the Maples classroom, I’m happily engaged, I have an angel baby named Harlynn Marie, I love: camping and being outdoors, geode hunting, going on adventures to new places, growing up I always helped take care of my siblings and I’ve always been good with children and that’s when I decided I was going to be a teacher, I love being able to help grow the little minds and help the children develop all their motor skills.
Gloria - 3's - Oaks
Hi my name is Gloria Francis and I’ve been married for 40 years now! I have 3 children: Alicia, Ryan and Bradley! My youngest son Bradley watches over us from above! I have a dog named Sadie and a cat named Binx! I’ve been Teaching for about 22 years now and Love 💕 every minute of it! It keeps me young at heart! My favorite part of Teaching is getting to know each child and watching them grow and learn! I’ve maintained relationships with many families through the years!! The children are like sponges and can absorb everything that you teach them! Thanks for the opportunity to get to know your children! 😊💕
Erika - 4/5's - Sycamore
Hello, my name is Erika Cooper and I’m the lead teacher of the Sycamores 4/5 classroom. I enjoy reading, painting, and cooking meals for my family. I have a 2 1/2 year old son who’s independent with lots of energy, and a big personality. We like to play baseball and watch cartoons together. I love children and I love what I contribute. Watching them learn while growing is a beautiful thing, and I want them to be the best I can help them to be.
Fostering a Love for Learning
Passion fuels our teaching methods. Our team is dedicated to fostering a love for learning among our students. Through engaging and interactive activities, we introduce concepts that ignite curiosity and inspire creativity. Whether it’s through art, music, or hands-on activities, our educators craft experiences that make learning enjoyable.
Collaboration with Families
At Learning Tree Academy, we view education as a partnership between our team and the families we serve. We understand that parental involvement is a vital component of a child’s early learning success. Our educators prioritize open communication and collaboration with parents to keep them informed about their child’s progress and milestones. We welcome feedback and actively encourage family engagement in our programs.
Join Our Learning Community
Our team at Learning Tree Academy is the heart of our educational daycare center. With highly qualified educators, personalized attention, a passion for fostering a love of learning, and a commitment to collaboration with families, we lay a strong foundation for your child’s early learning success. We believe that with the right nurturing and guidance, every child can achieve their educational milestones and flourish like the branches of a beautiful tree. Join us at Learning Tree Academy, where we cultivate a bright future for your child.