Educators

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Krystal Mitchell

Owner & Director

Krystal Mitchell lives in New Albany with her husband, Charles and their three boys. She has a Master’s degree in education and she is a licensed teacher. Krystal taught pre-kindergarten, kindergarten and most recently, was a Reading Specialist at Columbus Academy. In this role, Krystal coached teachers, supported the implementation of curriculum and facilitated professional development. Krystal was able to achieve results due to her dedication to student learning, robust leadership, agency and innovative thinking.

Krystal’s tenure as a teacher has taught her how to educate the whole child. Her students thrive and consequently, they take ownership of their learning. As a master educator, Krystal believes in research-based instructional practices and developing self-motivated readers who are independent critical thinkers.

Krystal’s top VIA character strengths are a love for learning, leadership, bravery, and perseverance. She is enthusiastic about cultivating a school culture focused on Positive Education that will transform the childcare market. She believes Learning to Flourish will change children’s lives, enabling them to achieve optimal well-being and fulllment. Krystal is committed to providing a premium childcare experience through innovative thinking and strategic planning.

New Albany

Michelle Anderson,
Assistant Director

Michelle Anderson brings over 12 years of dedicated experience in childcare and teaching to her role as Assistant Director. Before focusing on her passion for early childhood education, Michelle successfully managed a cleaning company for 13 years, demonstrating her strong leadership and organizational skills.As a mother of four, with three children currently in college, Michelle has a deep personal and professional understanding of the educational journey. She homeschooled her children for the majority of their education, providing her with unique insights into diverse learning styles and the importance of individualized education.

Michelle holds an Associate’s degree in General Education, Teacher Preparation, and Early Childhood Education. She also possesses certificates in Infant and Toddler Care, Preschool Education, Interpreter Education (ASL), and Early Childhood Education. Currently, she is pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and Special Education.

Throughout her career, Michelle has worked with children of all abilities, including those with special needs, both in professional settings and through her extensive volunteer work with non-profit organizations.

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Mary Freeman,
Lead Teacher

Mary Freeman is originally from Lynchburg, VA. Her interest in working with children began early in life. Her family always seemed to have “bonus” children, and it was easy to care for them naturally. After getting married and having three children, Mary returned to college to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in Speech Pathology and Audiology and later a Master of Science degree in Psychology. In addition, she was certified to teach Music Together with a program at the Sherwood Conservatory in Chicago.Mary has more than 25 years invested in serving preschool-age children as an Infant Stimulation Specialist, an Early Head Start Caregiver, Preschool Speech Therapist, Nanny, Music Together Teacher, Sunday School Teacher, and (among her favorites) a Mother and Grandmother.

Mary appreciates young children’s wonder and excitement and enjoys celebrating their “ah ha” moments. She believes every day presents a new opportunity to learn something and experience further success. Mary has shared that she loves it when children understand that even though she’s an adult, she can sometimes think as they do.

For personal enjoyment, Mary likes to read, try new foods, spend time with her nine natural and two “bonus” grandchildren, or relax at the beach.

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Emily Banks,
Lead Teacher

With over 10 years of experience in early childhood education, Emily Banks brings a deep passion for nurturing young minds through creativity and self-expression. After earning her Associate’s degree in Liberal Arts, Emily pursued further studies in Early Childhood Education, where she discovered a love for Creative Activities. As an artist herself, Emily is inspired to teach the importance of self-expression, encouraging children to explore their creativity through various artistic endeavors.Emily’s experience is enriched by her use of Montessori-style teaching, which emphasizes the belief that children are capable, creative, and full of potential. She finds joy in observing the world through their eyes and helping them develop their unique abilities.

Emily’s dedication to early childhood education is evident in her commitment to fostering a creative and supportive classroom environment where children can thrive.

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Alicia McGhee,
Lead Teacher

Ms. Alicia McGhee brings over 13 years of experience in childcare and education, including 9 years as a classroom teacher. She previously served as an educator in Worthington City Schools, where she developed daily lesson plans, and implemented Responsive Classroom techniques focused on fostering social-emotional skills and overall student well-being.Ms. Alicia holds a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education and a Master’s of Education in Literacy Instruction and Curriculum. Her teaching philosophy is centered on positive psychology, and she is passionate about creating joyful, enriching learning environments where children can thrive.

With a deep understanding of child development and early childhood education, Ms. Alicia is skilled in building strong relationships with both children and their families. She takes pride in crafting safe, engaging, and educational spaces that empower every child to flourish.

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Ashtyn Odom,
Support Teacher

Ashtyn Odom has over nine years of experience working in the childcare field. Several years ago, Ashtyn owned and operated a small childcare business. She has experience working with newborns to school-age children. Ashtyn enjoys watching children grow and learn new things. She believes it’s essential for every child to learn communication skills and foster their unique talents and interests. It brings Ashtyn great joy to work with young children as they complete projects and make discoveries.Ashtyn’s passions include reading, cooking, and home decor. She has two very active teenage daughters who keep her busy, and she enjoys spending time with them. Ashtyn is looking forward to building positive relationships with the children at Learning to Flourish.

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Gahanna

Jacki Morris,
Coordinator

Jacki has been an Early Childhood educator for the past 10-plus years. Most recently, she was an Educational Aide with the Gahanna Jefferson Preschool Program. The Gahanna Jefferson Preschool Program services children with special needs from three to six years of age. Jacki previously worked at Stepping Stones daycare for over two years. In addition, she has taught Sunday school for first and second graders for over twenty years.Before working in education, Jacki worked in the field of finances and taxes at IDS, American Express Financial Services, American Express Tax & Business Services, H&R Block Tax & Business Services, and Ameriprise Financial as Office Manager.

Ms. Jacki started at Learning to Flourish in 2021 as the Tot Lead teacher. Ms. Jacki is currently the Lead Pre-Kindergarten teacher helping prepare our oldest learners for their educational journey in grade school.

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Valerie McMichael,
Lead Teacher

Valerie is a dedicated early childhood educator with over eight years of experience, specializing in teaching 2-3 year olds at Learning to Flourish. Passionate about nurturing young minds and hearts, Valerie excels in creating a warm and inclusive classroom environment. Her approach fosters curiosity and exploration, enabling students to discover the world at their own pace within the framework of the Learning to Flourish curriculum.With a deep understanding of child development, Valerie is adept at tailoring her teaching methods to the unique needs and interests of each child. She is committed to fostering strong relationships with her students and their families through community time, sensory activities, and guidance in social-emotional development. Valerie’s commitment to professional growth ensures she remains at the forefront of educational best practices.

Valerie is thrilled to be part of Learning to Flourish, where she contributes to laying the foundation for lifelong learning and success for every child under her care.

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Kimberly Jordan,
Preschool Teacher

Kimberly Jordan is a seasoned early childhood educator with six years of experience, primarily focusing on infants and toddlers while also supporting children across various age groups. Her passion for child development, inspired by her role as a mother of three, drives her commitment to fostering nurturing, hands-on learning environments.Kimberly is a dedicated educator who implements research-backed strategies that promote holistic student growth and development. She is trained in Conscious Discipline, which enhances her ability to build strong rapport with students and maintain open, effective communication with parents. Known for her positive energy and enthusiasm, Kimberly creates a classroom atmosphere where children feel supported and encouraged to explore and learn.

Her educational philosophy emphasizes a whole-child approach, focusing on social-emotional, physical, and cognitive development, with a strong emphasis on language and fostering a love for reading.

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Educators

Krystal Mitchell

New Albany

Gahanna

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