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.
Infant Teacher
With over 20 years of experience caring for infants, Ms. Alicia is affectionately known as our "Baby Whisperer." Her calm, nurturing nature helps even the youngest children feel safe, loved, and at ease. As a mother herself, she understands the importance of providing exceptional care. Outside of school, she enjoys spending time with her child and caring for her chickens and rabbit at home.
Infant Teacher
Dejah is our Infant Assistant Teacher and has a special love for caring for babies—and they adore her just as much! As a mom to one child and eagerly awaiting the arrival of another, she brings both personal experience and a nurturing heart to the classroom. Her gentle, caring nature helps create a safe, loving environment where our youngest Sprouts can grow and thrive.
Lead Infant Teacher
Infant Teacher
Marquaisa is one of our Infant Assistant Teachers and a proud mom of two. She has a gentle, caring nature and enjoys helping provide a safe, nurturing environment where our youngest learners can thrive. Families appreciate her thoughtful communication and the care she brings to each day, making her a valued member of the Sprouts team.
Infant 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
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
Toddler Teacher
Although Ashton is new to early childhood education, she has quickly discovered a passion for working with young children and plans to pursue it as a long-term career. She brings kindness, curiosity, and a love of learning into the classroom each day. Outside of school, Ashton loves animals and enjoys sharing that passion with the children by occasionally bringing some of her pets in for special show-and-tell experiences. Her enthusiasm and caring nature make her a wonderful addition to the Sprouts family.
2's Teacher
Cristina is one of the hearts of Sprouts, bringing warmth, compassion, and dedication to every child she cares for. With three years of experience in early childhood education and her Early Childhood Education credential, she is passionate about building strong relationships with children and families through open communication and trust. Many of our children see her as a "mom away from home," thanks to the love and comfort she provides each day. As a mom to two boys who also attend Sprouts, Cristina understands firsthand the importance of creating a nurturing environment where every child feels safe, valued, and loved.
2's Teacher
Madison Weekley is one of our Two-Year-Old Teachers and brings enthusiasm, creativity, and fun to the classroom every day. She loves planning engaging, hands-on activities that keep little learners excited to explore and grow. Her positive energy and passion for teaching help create a classroom where children feel encouraged, confident, and eager to learn.
3's Teacher
Miranda brings over nine years of experience in early childhood education and is currently pursuing her bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education. As a mother of four, she understands the importance of creating a nurturing, supportive environment where children feel safe, valued, and encouraged to grow. Miranda is passionate about helping each child reach their full potential while building strong relationships with families and creating meaningful learning experiences every day.
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
Although Maddie is one of the newest members of the Sprouts team, she has quickly become a favorite among both children and families. With over five years of experience in early childhood education and her Early Childhood Education credentials, she brings patience, kindness, and a calm presence to our oldest learners. Maddie is passionate about helping children grow in confidence, independence, and a love of learning, and we are so excited to have her as part of the Sprouts family.
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
Brenda has been a valued member of our school family since the very beginning and was caring for children here even before Sprouts opened under new ownership. With over 30 years of experience, she is a dependable, knowledgeable teacher who always has a story to share and can brighten anyone's day with a conversation. Outside of school, Brenda enjoys spending time with her children and raising her grandson. Her dedication, experience, and heart for children make her an irreplaceable part of the Sprouts family.
Cook
Sarah is a devoted mom of four who can often be seen guiding her crew into school each morning. She has a passion for preparing beautiful, nutritious meals and believes that healthy food is an important part of a child's growth and development. With her calm, gentle nature and caring heart, Sarah helps create a warm and welcoming environment for every child and family at Sprouts.
