Teacher

Ms. Marley has been part of the early childhood education field since 2022 and already holds a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, which highlights her skills and commitment to young learners. She’s currently working towards her Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education. Ms. Marley’s favorite aspect of teaching is the close bonds and relationships she forms with her students—it’s those special connections that make every day rewarding.

Outside of work, Ms. Marley loves to stay active by playing volleyball and enjoys experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen. Here’s a fun fact: she worked at Starbucks for two years and knows the menu inside and out—ask her for a drink recommendation anytime!

Her favorite children’s book is I Ain’t Gonna Paint No More! by Karen Beaumont, a fun and creative story that she loves sharing with her students. Ms. Marley also speaks a bit of Spanish, which she enjoys using to connect with families and children. Her favorite quote is by Bob Marley: “Love the life you live, live the life you love,” a motto she brings into her teaching and everyday life.

Mr. Nolan joined our team in 2022, bringing with him a wealth of experience from his background in coaching, kids’ camps, and social work. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Bowling Green State University (BGSU). Mr. Nolan loves the incredible responsibility of guiding his students’ education and finds it deeply rewarding to witness their growth and progress.

Outside the classroom, Mr. Nolan is a big fan of soccer, enjoys unwinding with video games, and has recently discovered a new passion for painting. A fun fact about him: he’s got a tattoo of Avatar: The Last Airbender—a tribute to one of his favorite shows!

Growing up, his favorite book was Green Eggs and Ham or pretty much any Dr. Seuss classic. Mr. Nolan also has a personal teaching philosophy: “There is no rule of thumb when working with children. It’s about adaptation, problem-solving, and an open mind to discover the needs of each child.”

Ms. Kiara has been dedicated to early childhood education since 2020. She holds a Child Development Associate (CDA) and is currently working towards her Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Development. Kiara finds joy in knowing she’s making a positive impact on the children she teaches, especially when she sees their smiling faces and excitement for learning.

When she’s not at AcademyOne, Kiara loves spending time shopping for unique finds, getting lost in a good book, or baking sweet treats to share with family and friends. A little fun fact about Kiara: she was born right on the cusp of Aries and Taurus—just 8 minutes earlier, and she would have been a Taurus!

Her favorite childhood book is Junie B. Jones, and she even speaks a bit of French! Kiara’s go-to quote for inspiration is, “This is anything but easy, but you are anything but weak,” which reflects her resilience and commitment to the children she cares for.

Ms. Karen has been a dedicated early childhood educator since 2003 and holds a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. Her favorite part of working with children is witnessing the moment they finally understand something new—the excitement and joy on their faces are truly contagious and make every day worthwhile.

Outside of work, Ms. Karen has a love for photography, cheering on her favorite baseball teams, and spending time with her beloved dogs. Here’s a fun fact: she used to work with the band Rascal Flatts! Her favorite children’s books are The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds and I Am Quiet by Andie Powers, stories that she finds inspiring and loves sharing with her students.

Ms. Karen also knows some sign language, which she incorporates into her teaching to connect with all of her students. Her favorite quote is by Fred Rogers: “Whether we are in preschool or a young teen, a graduating college senior or a retired person, we human beings all want to know that we are acceptable, that our being is alive somehow makes a difference in the lives of others.” This quote reflects her belief in the importance of making each child feel valued and heard.

Ms. Charlie has been with AcademyOne since 2022 and holds her Child Development Associates. Her favorite thing about working with children is watching them grow, especially in the Twos classroom, where she feels her heart is full. She loves the excitement the children show when they see her and call her name, and the joy she gets from watching them learn and teaching them new things.

Outside of work, Charlie enjoys spending time with her fiancé, especially outdoors. They love going off-roading in their jeep and exploring the woods together. Charlie is also passionate about painting. Fun fact: She loves to skateboard and enjoys cruising down the Scioto Mile along the river on her longboard.

Her favorite children’s book is No, David, as she read it often with her little brother, David. Recently, she discovered Belly Button Boy and has grown quite fond of Pete the Cat.

Her favorite quote is, “Take chances, make mistakes, get messy,” by Ms. Frizzle.

Hi, I’m Danna Wellman, and I have the privilege of being the Center Director at AcademyOne Childcare & Preschool. I’ve been part of the AcademyOne family since 2014, and I currently hold my CDA while working toward my Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education. I truly believe that working at AcademyOne is one of the most rewarding experiences. Every day, I get to watch our children grow, learn, and thrive, and it fills my heart with joy knowing I’m part of their journey. I am incredibly lucky to work with such a passionate, dedicated, and professional team who continually inspire me. The commitment to early childhood education here is something that motivates me to keep growing alongside our children and staff.

When I’m not at work, you’ll find me attending sporting events and cheering on my favorite teams – the Cleveland Browns and the Columbus Crew. I also love spending time with family and friends and indulging in fun activities outside of the classroom. Fun fact: I’m 50% Colombian and 50% Iranian, so I guess you could say I have a bit of an international flair! I’m fluent in Farsi, which is something I’m really proud of.

My favorite book is Stay Wild, My Child by My Acher. It speaks to the importance of letting kids be who they are and grow into their best selves. I live by the quote: “The greatest gifts we can give our children are the roots of responsibility and the wings of independence.” — Dr. Maria Montessori. To me, this perfectly captures the heart of what we do at AcademyOne, and it’s the guiding principle I strive to instill in every child we care for.

Ms. Kata has been a part of the early childhood education field since 2021. She holds a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential and is currently pursuing her Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education. Ms. Kata’s passion lies in nurturing, teaching, and loving on her toddlers—she finds joy in creating a safe and caring environment where they can grow and thrive.

When she’s not at AcademyOne, you can find Ms. Kata playing soccer or tending to her garden, where she loves watching things grow—both on the field and in her backyard! A fun fact about Ms. Kata: she’s a proud mom to a wonderful daughter who inspires her every day.

Her favorite children’s book is Llama Llama Misses Mama, a story she enjoys reading with her little ones. Ms. Kata is fluent in Spanish, which helps her connect with families and children from diverse backgrounds. Her favorite quote is from Proverbs 22:6: “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it,” a guiding principle she brings into her teaching.

Ms. Dominique has been in Early Childhood Education field since 2012 and holds her Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. The CDA is a nationally recognized certification that demonstrates her expertise in early childhood education and her commitment to the growth and development of the children in her care.

Dominique’s passion for teaching shines through in everything she does. She loves to watch children grow, laugh, and play, and is dedicated to helping them develop social, emotional, and cognitive skills in a nurturing environment. Her students thrive under her care, benefiting from her ability to create meaningful connections and inspire a love of learning.

Outside of work, Dominique enjoys spending quality time with her family, especially her husband and children. Fun fact: she has a beautiful singing voice, and we love to hear her sing with the children at school, bringing even more joy to their day.

Dominique’s favorite quote is: “You have to train your mind to be stronger than your feelings, or else you will lose yourself.” This quote speaks to her resilience and her belief in the power of staying strong and focused, even when challenges arise.

Ms. Regan joined the AcademyOne team in 2023 and is currently working towards earning her Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. What she loves most about teaching toddlers is seeing the bright smiles on their faces and watching them absorb new concepts—there’s nothing more rewarding than knowing she’s helping them grow.

When she’s not in the classroom, Ms. Regan enjoys getting creative with her crafting projects and spending time outdoors hiking and exploring nature. She finds peace and joy in both creative expression and the tranquility of the great outdoors.

A fun fact about Ms. Regan: she’s a proud dog mom and loves to spend time with her furry companion, who’s always by her side! Her favorite children’s book is Fancy Nancy, which she loves to read to her students, sharing its imaginative and colorful world with them.

Ms. Regan is passionate about fostering a fun, caring, and enriching environment for her toddlers to learn and develop, and she’s excited to continue growing alongside them.

Ms. Rose joined AcademyOne in 2024, bringing with her a wealth of experience and education. She holds a Master’s in Education and a degree in Speech Language Pathology. Before coming to AcademyOne, Ms. Rose taught grades 1-4 and worked as a speech-language pathologist in elementary schools. She finds immense joy in working at AcademyOne, calling it the best working environment, filled with happy kids and caring adults. For her, every minute spent with the babies is a true gift—seeing them smile, play, and grow is the highlight of her day.

Outside of the classroom, Ms. Rose has a deep love for travel and cherishes spending quality time with her family. A fun fact about her: she’s traveled to 20 countries and counting, constantly seeking new adventures and experiences around the world!

Ms. Rose speaks multiple languages, including Slovak, Czech, and Hungarian, and enjoys connecting with families and cultures in diverse ways. Her favorite quote, which aligns with her teaching philosophy, is by John Amos Comenius: “Much can be learned in a play that will afterwards be of use when the circumstances demand it.” This reflects her belief in the power of play and how it prepares children for life’s challenges.

Ms. Bri has been a dedicated educator in the childcare field since 2022 and holds her Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential—a nationally recognized certification that focuses on early childhood education and development. She is currently enrolled in a university program, working towards her Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education.

Her favorite part about working with children is watching them learn and grow each day. Ms. Bri loves being a part of the milestones in her students’ lives, whether it’s their first words, learning new skills, or gaining confidence. She finds immense joy in creating an environment where kids feel safe to explore, ask questions, and discover their potential.

Outside of work, Ms. Bri enjoys reading, drawing, and playing games. She’s creative and loves bringing her artistic talents into the classroom whenever she can.

A favorite quote that inspires her is: “Magic happens when you don’t give up, even when you want to. The universe always falls in love with a stubborn heart.” – JM Storm

Ms. Jayden joined AcademyOne in 2023 and is currently working on earning her Child Development Associate (CDA) credential while attending the University of Cincinnati through their online program. What she loves most about working with children is the smiles she receives from them and the memories they create together. Every day brings new moments of joy and connection.

Outside of work, Ms. Jayden enjoys a variety of hobbies including hiking, fishing, dancing, and cooking. She loves spending time outdoors and trying new recipes in the kitchen. A fun fact about Ms. Jayden: she was born in Lincoln, Nebraska, and her roots have inspired her adventurous spirit.

Her all-time favorite book is The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane, a story that resonates deeply with her. Ms. Jayden lives by the quote: “The purpose of our lives is to be happy” by Dalai Lama, which reflects her positive and joyful approach to life and teaching.

Hi, I’m Kim, the Curriculum Director here at AcademyOne Childcare & Preschool. I’ve been in Early Childhood Education field since 2011 and am currently working on my Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, after earning my Associate’s degree in the field. My role as Curriculum Director allows me the incredible opportunity to watch children, families, and staff grow together. It’s such a rewarding feeling to be part of an environment where everyone is continually learning and evolving, and I’m proud to contribute to that.

One of the things I love most about working at AcademyOne is seeing the resilience and dedication of both our families and teachers. I’m truly fortunate to work alongside such amazing people who are as passionate about early childhood education as I am. It makes me proud to be a part of this team.

Outside of work, I enjoy reading, gardening, and cooking. I find peace in spending time in nature and creating delicious meals for my family. Fun fact: I’m left-handed, which often surprises people!

One of my favorite children’s books is There’s a Monster at the End of This Book, Leonardo the Terrible Monster by Mo Willems – it’s a classic and always brings a smile to my face. My personal favorite quote is: “Every child deserves a champion, an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection, and insists that they become the best they can possibly be.” — Rita Pierson. This quote truly resonates with me, as I believe every child deserves to have a champion who believes in them and encourages them to reach their full potential.

Ms. Emmy joined the early childhood field in 2023 and is a float teacher at AcademyOne, always ready to help wherever needed. She loves getting to know the children’s personalities and discovering their unique interests, building strong relationships with each one.

Outside of work, Emmy enjoys painting, spending time with friends, and working on various crafts. Fun fact: She has experience working at a dog kennel, which adds a special touch to her love for animals.

Her favorite children’s book is There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Bat.

Ms. Makeena has been in Early Chilldhood Education field since 2022 and holds her Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. The CDA is a valuable certification that reflects her commitment to early childhood education and her dedication to helping children develop to their fullest potential.

Makeena loves watching kids learn and grow, and she cherishes being a part of their development. Whether it’s teaching new concepts or witnessing moments of discovery, she finds it incredibly rewarding to help shape their early experiences and encourage their curiosity. Her approach to teaching is patient, caring, and focused on building meaningful relationships with each child.

Outside of work, Makeena enjoys snowboarding and spending time outdoors with her friends and family. Fun fact: she lived in Mexico, which has helped her become fluent in Spanish, a skill she values in her interactions with families and children.

Makeena’s favorite book is Brick by Brick (Landrillo A. Landrillo), which she finds both inspiring and impactful.

Her favorite quote is: “Children are not things to be molded, but are people to be unfolded.” – Jess Lair

Ms. Abby has been working in the field of early childhood education since 2018 and holds her Child Development Associate (CDA) credential.

Her favorite thing about working with children is their ability to be unapologetically themselves. She loves instilling love, hope, and joy in their hearts, and she believes in creating an environment where children feel safe to express who they are. Abby’s kind and loving nature make her a special presence in the classroom, as she encourages children to grow with confidence and curiosity.

Outside of work, Abby enjoys cooking and baking, creating delicious treats to share with friends and family. Fun fact: she has her very own star in the sky, a beautiful birthday gift that serves as a special reminder of how loved she is.

Her favorite book is Fancy Nancy by Jane O’Connor, a whimsical story about a young girl with a flair for all things fancy.

Abby’s favorite quote is: “When one teaches, two learn.” – Robert Heinlein

Ms. Cierra has been with AcademyOne since 2021, starting as a teacher and now serving as our wonderful cook. She holds her STNA (State Tested Nursing Assistant) license and is currently pursuing her law degree.

Her favorite part of working at AcademyOne is seeing the joy and excitement on the children’s faces when they see her, knowing she’s bringing delicious, nutritious food to the table. She’s especially loved for her homemade muffins, which always fill the air with a wonderful aroma.

Outside of work, Cierra enjoys a variety of hobbies, including reading, painting, traveling, and exploring the wonders of astronomy. Fun fact: She has also attended Fire/EMT school, expanding her skills in an entirely different field.

Ms. Allison has been in the early childhood education field since 2020, bringing experience across a wide range of ages, from infants to Pre-K. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Art Education and is currently pursuing her Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, a nationally recognized certification that focuses on enhancing the skills and knowledge of early childhood educators.

Ms. Allison’s favorite part about working at AcademyOne is the strong sense of community. She’s formed wonderful friendships with the staff, and she appreciates the professionalism and dedication of her colleagues. She also loves connecting with the families who bring so much warmth and support to the program.

Outside of work, Ms. Allison is passionate about making art, caring for her many plants, and diving into a good book. A fun fact about her is that she has been a vegetarian for nearly a decade! Her favorite children’s book is The Day the Crayons Quit by Drew Daywalt, a story that perfectly aligns with her love for creativity.

Ms. Allison believes in the power of learning through play and discovery. She is a strong advocate for child-centered approaches, where children’s curiosity and exploration are at the heart of their growth and development. Her quote of choice: “Play is the highest form of research,” embodying her belief that through play, children learn about the world around them in the most profound ways.

Ms. Kayla has been working in early childhood education since 2014. She holds a Child Development Associate (CDA) certification, a nationally recognized credential that highlights her expertise in working with young children. Kayla is also currently pursuing her Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, continuing her commitment to growth and professional development. Her favorite part of the job is witnessing those “aha” moments when children learn something new and truly understand it—it’s a joy she never gets tired of.

Outside of the classroom, Kayla loves to read and often spends her free time getting lost in a good book. She’s also a big fan of game nights with friends. Fun fact: Kayla has a growing collection of rubber ducks, each with its own unique design!

Her favorite children’s book is Love Monster by Rachel Bright, a heartwarming tale about love and acceptance. Kayla’s favorite quote is, “Even on your toughest days, you are still somebody’s favorite teacher,” a reminder of the lasting impact she makes every day in her students’ lives.

Ms. Aryana has been in the field of early childhood education since 2019 and holds her Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. She is also currently working on her Associate’s Degree in Nursing (RN).

Aryana loves building strong bonds with children and is known for being creative, fun, and deeply connected with her students. Her approach to teaching is one that fosters a nurturing environment where children feel encouraged to explore, learn, and grow.

Outside of work, Aryana enjoys reading and journaling, finding peace and inspiration through both activities. Fun fact: she loves learning new things and is always seeking to expand her knowledge and skills.

Her favorite book is Love You Forever by Robert Munsch, a touching story about the bond between a parent and child.

Aryana’s favorite quote is: “I am not what I have been through, I am what I choose to become.”

Hello, I’m Bojana Simic Augustyniak, the proud owner of AcademyOne Childcare & Preschool. With over 20 years in early childhood education, I began my journey in the corporate world of early childhood education, where I held many leadership roles. In 2011, I took the leap to open my own school, AcademyOne, where my passion for providing exceptional care and learning opportunities for children truly took shape.

Throughout my career, I’ve always been driven by a deep commitment to creating a nurturing environment where children feel safe, valued, and excited to learn. At AcademyOne, we’ve built a community of dedicated educators, engaged children, and supportive families, and I feel privileged to be part of each child’s growth and learning journey.

I believe in fostering enriching, positive experiences that support children’s development academically, socially, and emotionally. I am proud to guide such a dedicated team, and I remain passionate about providing the best possible foundation for every child’s future.

Ms. Morgan has been in the early childhood education field since 2020 and is currently pursuing her Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, a key certification that focuses on understanding child development and effective teaching practices. After completing her CDA, she plans to continue her education in Early Childhood Development to further expand her skills.

What Ms. Morgan loves most about AcademyOne is how welcoming and supportive the environment is. She appreciates the strong collaboration between administration and teachers and finds joy in watching the children grow, learn, and reach new milestones.

Outside of work, Ms. Morgan is a busy mom of three energetic boys. In her free time, she enjoys listening to podcasts and audiobooks, with her favorite children’s book being Chrysanthemum by Kevin Henkes—a heartwarming story about embracing individuality.

A quote that resonates with Ms. Morgan’s positive outlook on life is: “The best way to predict your future is to create it.” She believes that fostering a love of learning and a positive mindset in children is key to shaping a bright future.