Meet the Team
Alpine's Loving Teachers & Staff
Mrs. Cathy
Founder & Director
Over the years, I have taught preschool, elementary, middle school, high school, GED classes, computer classes, French, English, and English as a Second Language. In 1995, I founded Cathy's Corner, which became Alpine Academy. As the preschool grew, we needed another building for the children in kindergarten and up, and Eagle Creek Academy was born. I believe teaching and learning are the most important jobs in the world, and I am still loving every minute of my time in education. Please give us a call and tell us about you and your children. We are eager to be a loving part of your lives.
Mrs. Kayce
Program Manager
My whole life has been dedicated to taking care of children. At the age of thirteen, I began my childcare career as a devoted babysitter and nanny and have never looked back. In 2016, after my son was born, I opened a licensed daycare center in Redondo Beach, California. In 2019, I decided to use my business acumen to help a fellow mom open and manage her new company called South Bay Mommy & Me. While working there, I was the head liaison for resources and referrals. One of my favorite duties was helping new mothers navigate their journey by setting up support groups with certified therapists. In 2021, I took a teaching position at Peninsula Montessori School in Ranchos Palos Verdes, California. There, I co-taught in a kindergarten and first-grade class, and I taught Art to other classes. Now that my husband, my son and I are back home in Michigan, I have completed my associate's degree in Child Development and am working toward my bachelor's degree. I am delighted to have discovered the amazing group of teachers and families at Alpine Academy. I am eager to get to know you and your family and find out what we can do for you. Please let me know your hopes and dreams for your child, and I promise we will work hard to make them come true.
Mrs. Sarah
Business Director
I grew up in Sterling Heights and graduated from Missouri State University. I also spent two years studying abroad. I especially enjoyed travelling through Germany where I became fascinated with WWII history. Before coming to Alpine, I was the Director of HR & the Administrator of Finance where I handled bookkeeping, payroll, employee relations, and new clients. While there, I became a certified professional in human resources (SHRM-CP). I have moved around a great deal in life -- physically, spiritually, academically, and professionally -- and worked in a wide variety of careers including food service, hospitality, retail, accounting, management, substance-abuse, and professional theatre. All of this growth ultimately led me to Alpine, where I am thrilled to have found my forever home. I have one son, Tucker, whose favorite subjects are math, spelling, and art. In our free time, we enjoy biking, swimming, reading, and painting. I look forward to getting to know you. • 2013 BS in Psychology from Missouri State University
Mrs. Claudia
Teacher
I have lived in Rochester for nearly 50 years and raised my children here. Long ago, I was a caseworker at Orchards Children’s Servics. Since 2008, I have taught traditional and Montessori preschool and young fives at various local schools, including Holy Family and Crown of Life Lutheran School. I also run a tutoring program after school. My passions are early literacy and kindergarten readiness, and my big goal is to meet each student at his or her individual level. This helps create confidence and independence in early elementary and beyond. Please visit our classroom often. I enjoy creating a cozy, homey atmosphere, and would love to have you join us.
Ms. Mackenzie
Teacher
Being able to educate young children is a blessing for me. I love watching their minds work and finding ways to reach them emotionally and academically. Before coming to Alpine, I managed a couple local restaurants for seven years. This experience taught me patience and dedication which I am eager to share with your and your family. Please say hi. I’d love to hear how I can team up with you to make Alpine a great experience.
Ms. Savanna
Teacher
While growing up and volunteering in classrooms after school, I decided to become an early childhood teacher. There is nothing better than nurturing children as they grow and learn. My favorite is when I find ways to make kids excited to come to school. Before starting at Alpine in 2021, I got my associates degree in early childhood, and I worked with toddlers for two years at a childcare center in Lake Orion. I can’t wait to make memories with your children!
Ms. Emerson
Teacher
I grew up in a big family where I learned to love and care for those around me. Although I was one of the younger kids in my family, I adored caring for my two younger sisters. Now that I'm older, my nieces and nephews are my world. Having them in my life has convinced me to continue working with children. Outside of childcare, I have also worked as a missionary and a dog trainer. I love my passions, and I'm excited to meet your children and apply myself to getting to know them and their needs.
Ms. Makayla
Teacher
I have always been passionate about engaging with children and helping them develop. For over ten years, I have cared for children as a pediatric medical assistant, a daycare worker, and a program director for a large children's program. Through Wayne State University, I obtained a bachelor’s in Psychology, and I am currently working towards a master’s in Elementary Education at Oakland University. I love being at Alpine where I can cultivate a welcoming environment that encourages kids to feel loved, seen, and known.
Ms. Kristy
Teacher
I am so happy to be teaching at Alpine. I have homeschooled all four of my children, and I’m eager to share my knowledge and skills to help your children learn and prosper. I am truly interested in developing long-term relationships with all of Alpine’s parents, ones in which we share pictures and ideas and find joy in watching your children grow. I stayed at my last job for 24 years, and I hope to be nurturing and loving children here for just as long. See you soon!
Ms. Laura
Teacher
Starting in elementary school, I aspired to be a teacher, and I am fortunate to be able to live that dream every day. While pursuing my bachelor degree in Elementary Education from Oakland University, I worked for the Rochester Community Schools School-Age program for four years. After graduation, since 2011, I have been working at Eagle Creek Academy and Alpine Academy with toddlers, preschool, elementary school and middle school children. I love all age groups. It's so interesting to get to know each child as an individual and watch their personalities develop. I am looking forward to meeting you and talking about your child’s strengths, needs and passions. Working as a team with you is very important to me. See you soon!
Mr. Craig
Facility Manager
I have been managing Alpine's campus since 2007. I like keeping the building and grounds in tiptop shape, from the garbage disposals to the air conditioning units. I also own and manage Knox Lawn & Landscape, which is how I originally came to Alpine. Originally from North Branch, I now live in Dryden with my wife and three children. I enjoy snowmobiling, boating, and spending time with family.
Mr. Ron
Custodian
I have been working for Alpine since 2016. It's a great job because I get to tinker with things and help people. I enjoy big projects such as refurbishing old cupboards. I spend my free time working on cars, collecting precious metals, and hanging out with my grandson. If you see me around, please say hello!