Our Staff

At KinderAcademy for Young Scholars, our staff are both educators and nurturers, dedicated to fostering the growth and development of each child. We believe that nurturing young minds is a collaborative effort between our skilled educators and families, working together to provide a supportive and enriching environment. Our goal is to offer your family the highest quality childcare services, ensuring exceptional value and peace of mind.

All our teachers are fully licensed, trained, and experienced in early childhood education, demonstrating a commitment to the highest standards of teaching and care. Our caregivers are NCTVET trained, and all staff members undergo fingerprinting and screening in compliance with the Early Childhood Commission's requirements. Additionally, every member of our team is certified in pediatric CPR, First-Aid, Universal Precautions, and Child Abuse awareness.

Get to know our dedicated and experienced staff, who are passionate about providing comprehensive childcare for children of all ages. With our team’s expertise and heartfelt commitment, you can feel confident that your child is in the best hands at KinderAcademy.

Mrs. Charmaine Barnett

Principal & Chief Operating Officer

The famous quote by Writers of Illusions, "Here is a test to find if your mission on earth is finished. If you’re alive, it isn’t,” perfectly reflects the life and philosophy of Mrs. Charmaine Barnett. A philanthropist at heart, Mrs. Barnett is widely recognized for her charitable efforts throughout St. Ann, always striving to make a positive impact in her community.

As the Principal and Chief Operating Officer of KinderAcademy for Young Scholars, Mrs. Barnett finds joy in guiding our nation’s most valuable asset—our children—towards a future of greatness. Her dedication and compassion make her a beacon of hope for many children in and around the Brown’s Town area.

With over twenty-five years of experience as a Registered Nurse with the New York City Department of Education, Mrs. Barnett is committed to ensuring that every child has access to a safe, nurturing educational environment. Her approach to early childhood education focuses on developing each student’s unique potential through progressive teaching methods, whole-child engagement, and strong family partnerships. Mrs. Barnett's leadership and vision continue to shape KinderAcademy as a place where children can learn, grow, and thrive.

Leadership and Support at KinderAcademy for Young Scholars

While Mrs. Charmaine Barnett, our Principal and Chief Operating Officer, continues to handle the bulk of administrative responsibilities and provide guidance remotely via online and phone communications, Ms. Keisha Marston serves as the on-site Acting Principal. Ms. Marston is the go-to person for daily operations, providing hands-on leadership and support to staff, students, and parents. This arrangement ensures that KinderAcademy maintains its high standards of education and care, with seamless coordination between remote and on-site leadership.

Teachers & Caregivers

Ms. Beverley Mitchell 

Kindergarten Teacher & Enrichment Instructor Assistant

Ms. Keisha Marston 

Acting Principal, Special Education Coordinator & K2 Teacher

Ms. Keisha Marston is a dedicated Early Childhood Educator who currently serves as the on-site Acting Principal at KinderAcademy. With over nine years of experience, Ms. Marston plays a vital role in ensuring smooth day-to-day operations and serves as the primary contact for students, staff, and parents. Her leadership is marked by her commitment to nurturing young minds and creating an inclusive, supportive learning environment.

In addition to her leadership responsibilities, Ms. Marston excels as the Special Education Coordinator and K2 Teacher. She specializes in special education and also teaches Sign Language and Spanish, demonstrating her versatile teaching skills and her passion for helping all students thrive. Ms. Marston holds a diploma in special needs education and is currently pursuing her bachelor's degree in special education, reflecting her ongoing dedication to personal and professional growth.

Known for her organizational skills, efficiency, and strong rapport with students and their families, Ms. Marston is a cornerstone of the KinderAcademy community. Her ability to manage multiple roles effectively, coupled with her passion for education, makes her an invaluable asset, ensuring that every child at KinderAcademy feels supported, inspired, and empowered to reach their full potential.

Mrs. Lisa-Gay Harrison Brown 

Toddler 3 K-1 Teacher

 

 

Melissa Baker is a Certified Early Childhood Educator who brings her passion for nurturing young children to her role as the Lead Educator for our Nursery and Toddler programs, caring for children from 6 weeks to 2 years old. With a deep commitment to early childhood development, Melissa ensures that each child in her care receives the highest level of attention, affection, and education.

Melissa is dedicated to creating a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment where the youngest members of KinderAcademy can thrive. Her focus is on providing a secure and loving atmosphere, helping each child feel comfortable and confident as they grow and learn.

Parents can feel assured knowing that Melissa is not only a highly qualified educator but also someone who genuinely cares about each child's well-being. Her warm and caring nature, combined with her professional expertise, makes her an invaluable part of the KinderAcademy family. Melissa’s goal is to support every child’s early development journey, laying a strong foundation for their future growth and learning.

Ms. Deborah Brown 

Infant /Toddler Caregiver

Ms. Deborah Brown is a dedicated professional known for her sincerity and unwavering commitment to quality care. Her passion for working with children began at a young age and has only grown stronger over the years. Driven by her love for nurturing young minds, Deborah joined KinderAcademy, where she pursued a diploma in infant care to provide the best possible care, knowledge, and understanding to the children she looks after.

With over 20 years of experience caring for school-aged children in Retreat, Montego Bay, and more than a decade of experience as a caregiver at a children's home in Kingston, Ms. Brown brings a wealth of experience and compassion to her role. At KinderAcademy, she assists in the nursery, caring for infants as young as 6 weeks old up to children 24 months. Deborah finds great joy in her work, knowing that she plays a crucial role in the early stages of each child's development.

In her spare time, Ms. Brown enjoys spending quality time with her family and friends, and she is an active member of her church community. Her warm and caring nature, combined with her extensive experience, makes her a valuable and beloved member of the KinderAcademy team.

Ms. Desrine Thomas 

Practical Nurse/ Infant/Toddler 2 Caregiver