Dedicated educators committed to nurturing your child's growth and development
Owner and Director
McKenzie Raphael is the Owner and Director of Sprouts Early Learning Academy. She brings together a background in psychology, mental health, and early childhood education to create a warm, intentional environment where children feel safe, known, and supported. McKenzie holds a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and Spanish and spent six months studying abroad in Spain during her undergraduate program. She later earned a Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling with a specialization in Play Therapy.
Before moving to Asheville from South Florida, McKenzie worked in private practice for three years, supporting children and families through play based therapeutic work focused on emotional development. At Sprouts, her approach is child centered and developmentally appropriate, grounded in strong relationships with families and deep respect for childhood as a meaningful foundation for lifelong learning and wellbeing.
Operations Manager
Lindsay Jarrett serves as Sprouts Early Learning Academy's Operations Manager and is grateful to be part of the Sprouts community. Originally from Fayetteville, North Carolina, Lindsay now lives in Swannanoa with her husband and their son, Theo, who attends Sprouts.
Lindsay earned a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education and a Master's degree in Reading Education from Appalachian State University. She spent several years teaching kindergarten with Buncombe County Schools before shifting her focus to early childhood education. She is currently attending Haywood Community College to complete her Early Childhood Administration credentials, and she brings both warmth and steady operational leadership to the day to day life of the school.
Lead Infant Teacher
Tomara brings over 30 years of experience in early childhood education. Throughout her career, she has served in a variety of roles, including as a Childcare Director.
Infant Teacher
Infant Teacher
Toddler Teacher
Christy brings over 24 years of experience in early childhood education. She earned her Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education last year, strengthening her dedication to high-quality teaching.
Toddler Teacher
Tobia is a dedicated early childhood educator actively working toward completing her early childhood education classes. She knows that working with children is her true passion.
Toddler Teacher
2's Teacher
2's Teacher
3's Teacher
Miranda has over nine years of experience working with young children, including five years as a Lead Teacher in 2-3-year-old classrooms and four years as a nanny.
3's Assistant
Vivi earned her Early Childhood Education certification in 2021 from Blue Ridge Community College. She is passionate about supporting children's learning through creativity, music, and play.
4's Teacher
Tailor has over eight years of experience working in childcare and is deeply passionate about supporting young children as they grow, learn, and explore the world around them.
4's Teacher & Garden Coordinator
Sophie serves as our Garden Coordinator and champion of the Farm-to-ECE program. She brings three and a half years of experience in early childhood education.
Pre-K Teacher
Allison studied Early Childhood Education and Outdoor Leadership at Warren Wilson College. In Pre-K, she focuses on helping students feel prepared both academically and socially through learning, play, and imaginative experiences.
Pre-K Teacher
Curriculum Coordinator
Jennifer has been a valued member of our team for the past three years. She brings over 33 years of experience in early childhood education, having worked as a nanny/governess as well as a lead teacher.
Floater Teacher
