Early Childhood Education at Peace Academy
Jana Bruhschwein- Executive Director
rachel pulling- center director, violet hazel campus
emily olson- center Director, dmf campus
Jana Bruhschwein is the founder and Executive Director of Peace Academy. With a deep commitment to high-quality early childhood care, Jana identified the need for enriched learning environments within the Fargo-Moorhead community and embarked on a mission to create meaningful change. She leads with passion and purpose, fostering a culture of care and connection among Peace Academy staff, families, and ambassadors. Known for her innovative and outside-the-box thinking, Jana continually seeks new ways to support the growth and well-being of children, recognizing the vital role of early childhood educators and preschool teachers in this process. As an Advanced Trainer in the Nurtured Heart Approach®, she firmly believes that every child deserves to be seen, heard, and loved.
emily olson- center Director, dmf campus
rachel pulling- center director, violet hazel campus
emily olson- center Director, dmf campus
Emily Olson holds a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education, an associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education, and a minor in Special Education. With 18 years of experience as an early childhood educator, including a decade as a director, she offers a knowledgeable, organized, and gentle leadership style to the Peace Academy staff. Emily enjoys collaborating with preschool teachers to determine the best approaches for each individual child, and she takes great satisfaction in watching the children achieve their milestones.
rachel pulling- center director, violet hazel campus
rachel pulling- center director, violet hazel campus
rachel pulling- center director, violet hazel campus
Rachel Pulling has a bachelor’s degree in Music Therapy and a master’s degree in Special Education. For two years, she worked as a music therapist with early childhood educators in early childhood special education. Her passion for inclusion shines through as she leads and grows our Ambassador program, helping preschool teachers encourage preschoolers to become adults who will naturally engage with people of all abilities. Rachel can also be seen leading and developing a love for music at our DMF location alongside the Peace Academy staff.
Elizabeth Strinden- Director/teacher, DMf campus
rachel pulling- center director, violet hazel campus
rachel pulling- center director, violet hazel campus
Elizabeth Strinden holds a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and a master’s degree in Special Education. With 12 years of experience working in public schools, she brings a wealth of knowledge to the Peace Academy staff. Elizabeth loves fostering the development of children through intentional play. We are fortunate to have her as both a leader and a teacher in our Preschool, where her steady and strong presence supports both preschool teachers and students in thriving.
Kellie Knodel- Director/Teacher, violet hazel campus
Kellie Knodel- Director/Teacher, violet hazel campus
Kellie Knodel- Director/Teacher, violet hazel campus
Kellie Knodel, an accomplished member of the Peace Academy staff, holds a bachelor's degree in Psychology and a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. With over 15 years of experience as a preschool teacher, Kellie brings a deep understanding of early childhood development to her role. At Peace Academy, she teaches part-time and also serves as the Director of Parent Education. Passionate about nutrition and integrating music into the classroom, Kellie is committed to enriching the experiences of young learners. Additionally, she is an Advanced Trainer in the Nurtured Heart Approach®, which she utilizes in her work with both parents and children, making her a valuable resource for early childhood educators.
AMBER WAGNER - Admin Asst./HR, DMF CAMPUS
Kellie Knodel- Director/Teacher, violet hazel campus
Kellie Knodel- Director/Teacher, violet hazel campus
Amber holds a bachelor’s degree in Paralegal with a minor in Human Resources from MSUM. Her previous experience at the United States Attorney’s office has provided her with a solid foundation in both human resources and law. With her expertise in managing spreadsheets and a keen eye for detail, she contributes to bringing order to the Peace Academy staff, which includes dedicated preschool teachers and early childhood educators. As a new mom, Amber offers valuable insights into successfully navigating the challenges of child-rearing while balancing her professional responsibilities.
autumn schaeffer - admin asst. VIOLET HAZEL CAMPUS
Kellie Knodel- Director/Teacher, violet hazel campus
autumn schaeffer - admin asst. VIOLET HAZEL CAMPUS
Autumn Schaeffer is an MSUM Dragon Alumni with a bachelor's degree in Communications focused on training and development, as well as event planning, and a master's degree in Educational Leadership. With 4 years of experience as an early childhood educator and 8 years of coaching K-12 and collegiate athletes, she has developed a passion for nurturing young minds. Autumn's dedication to education is further reflected in her role with the Peace Academy staff, where she supports preschool teachers and fosters a love for learning in children.
Dakota Medical Foundation Campus
kyhlie imsland - preschool teacher
ALLI mcnamara - preschool teacher/childcare
Kyhlie Imsland, a valued member of the Peace Academy staff, holds a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education with an Early Childhood minor, as well as a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction in Reading. As one of the passionate early childhood educators, she believes that teaching children through play is essential, focusing prim
Kyhlie Imsland, a valued member of the Peace Academy staff, holds a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education with an Early Childhood minor, as well as a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction in Reading. As one of the passionate early childhood educators, she believes that teaching children through play is essential, focusing primarily on social emotional development in early childhood education. With 10 years of experience in elementary education, she enjoys working alongside preschool teachers to help children develop early literacy and numeracy skills, laying a strong foundation for their future learning.
ALLI mcnamara - preschool teacher/childcare
ALLI mcnamara - preschool teacher/childcare
Alli McNamara, a dedicated member of the Peace Academy staff, holds a bachelor’s degree in marketing along with a Child Development associate credential. With her background as a former au pair in Italy, she brings a love for adventure to her role as an early childhood educator. In both preschool and childcare rooms, you’ll find her nurtu
Alli McNamara, a dedicated member of the Peace Academy staff, holds a bachelor’s degree in marketing along with a Child Development associate credential. With her background as a former au pair in Italy, she brings a love for adventure to her role as an early childhood educator. In both preschool and childcare rooms, you’ll find her nurturing children and fostering curiosity. Alli’s calm, steady manner and welcoming smile encourage her kiddos to thrive. She deeply appreciates the creativity and light that all preschool teachers know children bring to the world.
HANNAH OELKE - preschool teacher/childcare
Hannah Oelke holds a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education and Special Education. As one of our dedicated early childhood educators at Peace Academy, she brings six years of experience in early childhood, making her well-prepared to contribute to both our childcare and preschool rooms. Her quiet demeanor and keen attention to eac
Hannah Oelke holds a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education and Special Education. As one of our dedicated early childhood educators at Peace Academy, she brings six years of experience in early childhood, making her well-prepared to contribute to both our childcare and preschool rooms. Her quiet demeanor and keen attention to each child's individual needs make her a valued member of our preschool teachers team. Hannah loves watching, helping, and celebrating children as they achieve their life milestones.
catherine mccullough - preschool teacher
Catherine McCullough, an early childhood educator with a bachelor’s degree in Spanish from Virginia Tech, embodies the Hokie motto - Ut Proism: “That I may serve” or “help others better the communities in which we live.” This commitment is evident in her work as part of the Peace Academy staff, where she teaches preschool. Every day, she
Catherine McCullough, an early childhood educator with a bachelor’s degree in Spanish from Virginia Tech, embodies the Hokie motto - Ut Proism: “That I may serve” or “help others better the communities in which we live.” This commitment is evident in her work as part of the Peace Academy staff, where she teaches preschool. Every day, she is seen calmly encouraging children to play and learn with respect and fun. Catherine takes joy in making cultural connections and broadening horizons, a quality admired among preschool teachers.
Candace benedict - nutrition services/childcare
Candace benedict - nutrition services/childcare
Candace Benedict, a dedicated member of the Peace Academy staff, holds a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education. With 12 years of experience as a preschool teacher, she has worked with infants through school-age children, encouraging exploration and growth. Candace loves witnessing when a new concept or idea clicks into place for
Candace Benedict, a dedicated member of the Peace Academy staff, holds a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education. With 12 years of experience as a preschool teacher, she has worked with infants through school-age children, encouraging exploration and growth. Candace loves witnessing when a new concept or idea clicks into place for her students. To help kids harness their creativity, she incorporates messy art projects and enjoys bringing nature into the classroom. You will regularly hear her practicing the Nurtured Heart Approach, aiming to bring out the best in those around her.
morgan uribe - preschool teacher/childcare
Candace benedict - nutrition services/childcare
Morgan Uribe holds a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood and Elementary Education and has 7 years of experience as an early childhood educator. She is a valued member of the Peace Academy staff, working with several age groups. As one of the dedicated preschool teachers, Morgan loves being a light in children’s lives and creating a safe
Morgan Uribe holds a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood and Elementary Education and has 7 years of experience as an early childhood educator. She is a valued member of the Peace Academy staff, working with several age groups. As one of the dedicated preschool teachers, Morgan loves being a light in children’s lives and creating a safe environment for them. She deeply values building relationships and takes joy in watching children learn and grow.
Brianna Nagel - childcare
Brianna Nagel holds a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from the University of Jamestown and a master’s degree in Educational Leadership from NDSU. With 12 years of experience, she excels in her role as an early childhood educator, helping children master their foundational skills. Brianna's infectious positivity resonates with ev
Brianna Nagel holds a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from the University of Jamestown and a master’s degree in Educational Leadership from NDSU. With 12 years of experience, she excels in her role as an early childhood educator, helping children master their foundational skills. Brianna's infectious positivity resonates with everyone around her, making her a beloved member of the Peace Academy staff. She enjoys collaborating with preschool teachers, learning from them, and working closely with families at Peace Academy.
amanda ottesen - childcare
Amanda Ottesen, an early childhood educator with an associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education, has 19 years of experience caring for children. At Peace Academy, she meets the children where they are, adapting programs and activities to suit the unique needs within her classroom. What many may not realize is that she is also skilled
Amanda Ottesen, an early childhood educator with an associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education, has 19 years of experience caring for children. At Peace Academy, she meets the children where they are, adapting programs and activities to suit the unique needs within her classroom. What many may not realize is that she is also skilled with technology, assisting her colleagues, including fellow preschool teachers, when they face challenges. Amanda loves to watch every child grow and thrive.
beth cossette - childcare
beth cossette - childcare
beth cossette - childcare
Beth Cossette, a member of the Peace Academy staff, holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology with a minor in special education. With 10 years of experience working with children and individuals who have intellectual and developmental disabilities, she collaborates with parents and early childhood educators to identify potential causes of c
Beth Cossette, a member of the Peace Academy staff, holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology with a minor in special education. With 10 years of experience working with children and individuals who have intellectual and developmental disabilities, she collaborates with parents and early childhood educators to identify potential causes of challenging behaviors. Beth supports preschool teachers and children as they work to enhance their self-regulation skills, encouraging students to gain independence and confidence with each new step.
kim kurth - childcare
beth cossette - childcare
beth cossette - childcare
Kim Kurth, one of the outstanding preschool teachers at Peace Academy, holds a master’s degree in Early Childhood and Elementary Education from Cabrini College, Pennsylvania. With over 30 years of experience in childcare, her approach reflects her dedication as an early childhood educator. Notably innovative, she can often be seen paintin
Kim Kurth, one of the outstanding preschool teachers at Peace Academy, holds a master’s degree in Early Childhood and Elementary Education from Cabrini College, Pennsylvania. With over 30 years of experience in childcare, her approach reflects her dedication as an early childhood educator. Notably innovative, she can often be seen painting backdrops for productions, crafting toys from boxes and egg cartons, and repurposing items that might otherwise be discarded. Her passion lies in helping children explore art and unlock their creativity.
Hannah Renner - childcare
beth cossette - childcare
Hannah Renner - childcare
Hannah Renner holds a degree in Psychology with a minor in Human Development and Family Sciences. As a member of the Peace Academy staff, she is currently working towards a master’s in Counseling. Passionate about nurturing the social-emotional development of children, she values the opportunity to make a difference in her role as preschool teachers through her daily work.
Isaac Martin - childcare
beth cossette - childcare
Hannah Renner - childcare
Isaac Martin graduated from Brainerd High School and attends MSUM, pursuing a degree in Early Childhood Education. With three years of childcare experience, Issac works to connect classroom learning to real practice to create a safe, nurturing, and fun environment for all children.
mary saladin - substitute teacher
mary saladin - substitute teacher
mary saladin - substitute teacher
Mary Saladin, a valued member of the Peace Academy staff, holds an Illinois Certificate of Completion from the Early Childhood Education Program. With 20 years of experience as a preschool teacher, she is dedicated to creating a loving and nurturing environment where each child feels safe, valued, and inspired to learn.
Maesyn Rowley - childcare
mary saladin - substitute teacher
mary saladin - substitute teacher
Maesyn Rowley, a valued member of the Peace Academy staff, has a degree in Business Administration. With 5 years of experience as an early childhood educator, she brings a steady calm to the older infant room. Whether in the lunchroom, pushing the buggy, or sitting on the floor, the children enjoy her warm personality. Maesyn, like many d
Maesyn Rowley, a valued member of the Peace Academy staff, has a degree in Business Administration. With 5 years of experience as an early childhood educator, she brings a steady calm to the older infant room. Whether in the lunchroom, pushing the buggy, or sitting on the floor, the children enjoy her warm personality. Maesyn, like many dedicated preschool teachers, enjoys children of all ages and is passionate about helping them learn and grow.
selina silva - childcare
mary saladin - substitute teacher
selina silva - childcare
Selina Silva, a dedicated early childhood educator at Peace Academy, has six years of experience in early childhood care and education. She strives to create a positive and nurturing environment for her students, much like many preschool teachers who share her passion. Selina can be observed gently guiding activities and encouraging child
Selina Silva, a dedicated early childhood educator at Peace Academy, has six years of experience in early childhood care and education. She strives to create a positive and nurturing environment for her students, much like many preschool teachers who share her passion. Selina can be observed gently guiding activities and encouraging children to bring their best. She enjoys watching her students’ unique personalities blossom and their creativity flow.
LESLIE RICE - childcare
mary saladin - substitute teacher
selina silva - childcare
Leslie Rice has 35 years of experience as an early childhood educator, with most of this time dedicated to working with infants. Many have affectionately referred to her as 'the baby whisperer.' She enjoys spending time on the floor playing with the babies, singing songs, and exploring new things. Leslie appreciates how the Peace Academy
Leslie Rice has 35 years of experience as an early childhood educator, with most of this time dedicated to working with infants. Many have affectionately referred to her as 'the baby whisperer.' She enjoys spending time on the floor playing with the babies, singing songs, and exploring new things. Leslie appreciates how the Peace Academy staff fosters an environment where children can learn through play, aligning beautifully with the mission of preschool teachers to promote learning and development.
Emmy Read - childcare
MCKENNA TABERY - childcare
CLAIRE READ - childcare
Emmy Read attends Sheyenne High School and is one of the dedicated early childhood educators at Peace Academy. You’ll see her bringing energy to our rooms at the end of the day, helping the children grow and thrive. One of the things she appreciates most about Peace Academy staff is witnessing the kids light up as they learn new things every day, a joy shared by many preschool teachers here.
CLAIRE READ - childcare
MCKENNA TABERY - childcare
CLAIRE READ - childcare
Claire Read attends Sheyenne high school and loves being a part of the Peace Academy team. She has a passion for working with kids of all ages and loves to make every child feel like they belong. She values building strong relationships with each child and watching them learn and grow, which is one of her favorite things about working at Peace Academy.
MCKENNA TABERY - childcare
MCKENNA TABERY - childcare
MCKENNA TABERY - childcare
McKenna Tabery has a bachelor's degree in nutrition science from NDSU and is currently working towards her Masters degree. She brings a passion for helping children build a healthy and positive relationship with food from an early age. She loves being part of Peace Academy because it provides her with the opportunity to create a long last
McKenna Tabery has a bachelor's degree in nutrition science from NDSU and is currently working towards her Masters degree. She brings a passion for helping children build a healthy and positive relationship with food from an early age. She loves being part of Peace Academy because it provides her with the opportunity to create a long lasting impact on the children and families she interacts with every day.
dezerae medina- childcare
MCKENNA TABERY - childcare
MCKENNA TABERY - childcare
Dezerae has a bachelor’s degree in music from Bemidji State University. After spending a few years teaching general music and choir to students of various ages in a public school setting, she is excited to bring her love of learning, creativity, and music to the infant classroom at Peace Academy along with her passion for helping children learn and grow.
Kira Wendt - childcare
Deb nybo - older childcare
Deb nybo - older childcare
Kira Wendt has graduated from Sheyenne High School and has been working with children for five years. As one of the dedicated early childhood educators among the Peace Academy staff, she completed her Paraprofessional Certificate and loves collaborating with students to enhance their speech language skills. Kira enjoys introducing new lea
Kira Wendt has graduated from Sheyenne High School and has been working with children for five years. As one of the dedicated early childhood educators among the Peace Academy staff, she completed her Paraprofessional Certificate and loves collaborating with students to enhance their speech language skills. Kira enjoys introducing new learning strategies that feel like play. She is excited to contribute to the community at Peace Academy.
Deb nybo - older childcare
Deb nybo - older childcare
Deb nybo - older childcare
Deb Nybo, a dedicated early childhood educator with a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from MSUM, has devoted 37 years to working with children from infancy to school age. Recently, her passion for nurturing infants and younger toddlers has truly captured her heart. As a member of the Peace Academy staff, Deb enjoys using bo
Deb Nybo, a dedicated early childhood educator with a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from MSUM, has devoted 37 years to working with children from infancy to school age. Recently, her passion for nurturing infants and younger toddlers has truly captured her heart. As a member of the Peace Academy staff, Deb enjoys using books, songs, and art to introduce little ones to fun, new experiences. She appreciates all the small things we do at Peace Academy that make it such a special place, reflecting the commitment of our preschool teachers to provide an enriching environment.
Carly Bjerk - childcare
Deb nybo - older childcare
hailey berdahl - childcare
Carly Bjerk has been working in childcare for 21 years, primarily with infants and toddlers. Carly is a parent of 3 daughters, and enjoys cooking, spending time with her family and going on road trips in her free time.
hailey berdahl - childcare
Deb nybo - older childcare
hailey berdahl - childcare
Hailey is a dedicated Early Childhood Educator with 6 years of experience working with infants through elementary-aged children. She is passionate about creating a peaceful, nurturing environment where children feel safe, valued, and encouraged to explore and become independent. She loves watching children learn, problem-solve, and discov
Hailey is a dedicated Early Childhood Educator with 6 years of experience working with infants through elementary-aged children. She is passionate about creating a peaceful, nurturing environment where children feel safe, valued, and encouraged to explore and become independent. She loves watching children learn, problem-solve, and discover new abilities. She values strong partnerships with parents and strives to support families every step of the way.
simone gomes - childcare
SHANNON ROBERTSON - childcare
SHANNON ROBERTSON - childcare
Simone Gomes was an elementary and high school teacher in Brazil for 15 years. She holds a degree in language and literature from UNIB in Sao Paulo, Brazil.
Simone has always admired and loved the world of children. For her, working with children is also an opportunity to learn from them every day, especially to appreciate the little thin
Simone Gomes was an elementary and high school teacher in Brazil for 15 years. She holds a degree in language and literature from UNIB in Sao Paulo, Brazil.
Simone has always admired and loved the world of children. For her, working with children is also an opportunity to learn from them every day, especially to appreciate the little things, and truly live in the present moment.
Her goal, both personally and professionally, is to make a positive difference in the lives of students through respect, love, and a smile. She wants every child who crosses her path to feel welcomed, valued, and to understand just how precious and special they are.
SHANNON ROBERTSON - childcare
SHANNON ROBERTSON - childcare
SHANNON ROBERTSON - childcare
Shannon Robertson holds a degree in marketing, but her true passion lies in working with children. As a parent, Shannon first encountered the Nurtured Heart Approach and quickly recognized its life-changing impact. Now a certified trainer in this approach, she is dedicated to supporting early childhood educators, including the Peace Acade
Shannon Robertson holds a degree in marketing, but her true passion lies in working with children. As a parent, Shannon first encountered the Nurtured Heart Approach and quickly recognized its life-changing impact. Now a certified trainer in this approach, she is dedicated to supporting early childhood educators, including the Peace Academy staff and preschool teachers, in nurturing each child's heart. Shannon finds joy in making children smile while also helping to build their self-esteem and confidence every day.
Char berg - childcare
SHANNON ROBERTSON - childcare
Char berg - childcare
Char Berg is an early childhood educator with an associate’s degree in Child Development and a wealth of childcare experience. With over 40 years in the field, she has worked as a nanny in various settings, including home daycares and preschools, making her a vital member of the Peace Academy staff. She often expresses her love for each r
Char Berg is an early childhood educator with an associate’s degree in Child Development and a wealth of childcare experience. With over 40 years in the field, she has worked as a nanny in various settings, including home daycares and preschools, making her a vital member of the Peace Academy staff. She often expresses her love for each role, and it certainly shows! Char actively engages with all the children in our rooms, gently guiding them under her care. Her kind and warm demeanor makes her a favorite among both the preschool teachers and the children.
Violet Hazel (Fiechtner Drive) Campus
Michele Wangen - preschool teacher
siri danielsoN - preschool teacher/grandfriends
Michele Wangen - preschool teacher
Michele Wangen is an early childhood educator with an associate's degree in early childhood development. With 12 years of experience as a preschool teacher and para, she has become a key member of the Peace Academy staff. As an advanced trainer in the Nurtured Heart Approach®, Michele is dedicated to supporting children in developing stro
Michele Wangen is an early childhood educator with an associate's degree in early childhood development. With 12 years of experience as a preschool teacher and para, she has become a key member of the Peace Academy staff. As an advanced trainer in the Nurtured Heart Approach®, Michele is dedicated to supporting children in developing strong social and emotional skills. She thrives on being part of children's curiosity and joy in discovering new things.
Cheryl Dietz - preschool teacher
siri danielsoN - preschool teacher/grandfriends
Michele Wangen - preschool teacher
Cheryl Dietz, a dedicated member of the Peace Academy staff, holds a bachelor's degree in elementary education and English, bringing 18 years of experience as an early childhood educator. Cheryl is deeply passionate about children's literacy and particularly enjoys story time, where she finds fun ways to empower children's imaginations an
Cheryl Dietz, a dedicated member of the Peace Academy staff, holds a bachelor's degree in elementary education and English, bringing 18 years of experience as an early childhood educator. Cheryl is deeply passionate about children's literacy and particularly enjoys story time, where she finds fun ways to empower children's imaginations and help them discover a joy for reading and writing. As a certified trainer in the Nurtured Heart Approach®, she loves working with preschool teachers at Peace Academy, celebrating the greatness in all preschoolers.
lisa dehler - preschool teacher
siri danielsoN - preschool teacher/grandfriends
siri danielsoN - preschool teacher/grandfriends
Lisa Dehler, a dedicated member of the Peace Academy staff, holds a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Mayville State University. With 13 years of experience as both a childcare provider and among preschool teachers in school districts, Lisa takes great joy in witnessing the developmental and emotional growth of children.
Lisa Dehler, a dedicated member of the Peace Academy staff, holds a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Mayville State University. With 13 years of experience as both a childcare provider and among preschool teachers in school districts, Lisa takes great joy in witnessing the developmental and emotional growth of children. The giggles and smiles from the little ones are always a delightful bonus!
siri danielsoN - preschool teacher/grandfriends
siri danielsoN - preschool teacher/grandfriends
siri danielsoN - preschool teacher/grandfriends
Siri Danielson, a recent graduate from UND, holds a degree in early childhood education and special education. As a dedicated member of the Peace Academy staff, she enjoys working alongside preschool teachers and engaging students in math and hands-on learning activities. Siri takes great joy in witnessing children learn and grow through play.
Melissa Bresnahan - Preschool Teacher
chelsey arneson - childcare
Chelsey Arneson, a valued member of the Peace Academy staff, holds a bachelor’s degree in Child Development. With over 20 years of experience as an early childhood educator, she has dedicated her career to nurturing young minds alongside fellow preschool teachers.
KATRINA GIETZEN - preschool/CHILDCARE
KATRINA GIETZEN - preschool/CHILDCARE
With over 5 years of childcare experience, Katrina is one of the dedicated early childhood educators at Peace Academy. She brings her extensive knowledge of early childhood education and a passion for helping children achieve new milestones. Katrina believes in fostering a calm and nurturing environment where all children can feel safe an
With over 5 years of childcare experience, Katrina is one of the dedicated early childhood educators at Peace Academy. She brings her extensive knowledge of early childhood education and a passion for helping children achieve new milestones. Katrina believes in fostering a calm and nurturing environment where all children can feel safe and supported, much like the values upheld by the preschool teachers at Peace Academy.
kody peck - childcare
KATRINA GIETZEN - preschool/CHILDCARE
Kody Peck previously worked as a para in Special Education classrooms, where she trained with early childhood educators in STAR Autism and Comprehensive Support and Improvement. Kody is passionate about breaking generational patterns and teaching children in a positive, supportive way. This commitment drew her to the Peace Academy staff a
Kody Peck previously worked as a para in Special Education classrooms, where she trained with early childhood educators in STAR Autism and Comprehensive Support and Improvement. Kody is passionate about breaking generational patterns and teaching children in a positive, supportive way. This commitment drew her to the Peace Academy staff and the Nurtured Heart Approach®, where she loves supporting preschool teachers in helping children feel seen, valued, and celebrated.
haley snell - childcare
MARY GWIN - NUTRITION SERVICES
Mary has over 14 years of experience as a special education paraprofessional and several years of experience in childcare, making her a valuable asset among Peace Academy staff. Trained in STAR Autism, she is dedicated to supporting preschool teachers and enhancing early childhood education. Mary is proud to be part of Peace Academy and is committed to advancing its mission and vision.
chesney esser - childcare
Chesney Esser started babysitting and nannying in 2016, and her dream is to become an early elementary teacher. Chesney has worked in childcare for 3 years. She has had experience as a Lead Preschool Teacher as well as a Childcare Building Lead. She graduated with her AA in Early Childhood in May of 2026, and is currently attending MSUM t
Chesney Esser started babysitting and nannying in 2016, and her dream is to become an early elementary teacher. Chesney has worked in childcare for 3 years. She has had experience as a Lead Preschool Teacher as well as a Childcare Building Lead. She graduated with her AA in Early Childhood in May of 2026, and is currently attending MSUM to get her Master’s degree for her Teaching License with focus in Special Education.
erin moxness - childcare
As a new member of our childcare team, Erin is a dedicated and passionate educator. She has a wide variety of experience teaching students in preschool through fifth grade. Erin earned teaching licenses in Elementary Education, Spanish, and Art from Concordia College, as well as a Master’s Degree in Science Education. This diverse educat
As a new member of our childcare team, Erin is a dedicated and passionate educator. She has a wide variety of experience teaching students in preschool through fifth grade. Erin earned teaching licenses in Elementary Education, Spanish, and Art from Concordia College, as well as a Master’s Degree in Science Education. This diverse educational background provides her with a well-rounded perspective on teaching and learning, allowing her to incorporate creativity, language, science, and hands-on experiences into the daycare setting. Erin enjoys working with young learners, and creating supportive, engaging environments where every child feels valued and encouraged to grow.
Violet Hazel (Fiechtner Drive) Campus
Katie Maple - grandfriend coordinator
Katie Maple, a valued member of the Peace Academy staff, holds a master's degree in education with a specialization in literacy. With 18 years of teaching experience as an early childhood educator, she has worked in first grade, kindergarten, and preschool settings. As the author of Jump Start to Literacy, Katie is passionate about suppor
Katie Maple, a valued member of the Peace Academy staff, holds a master's degree in education with a specialization in literacy. With 18 years of teaching experience as an early childhood educator, she has worked in first grade, kindergarten, and preschool settings. As the author of Jump Start to Literacy, Katie is passionate about supporting preschool teachers in helping children become proficient readers and writers from a young age!
MARILYN MCMURRAY - SUPPORT STAFF
Marilyn McMurray holds a degree in elementary and special education from the University of Mary in Bismarck. With over 25 years of experience working with individuals with disabilities, she has gained valuable insights into the field. While Marilyn appreciates her formal education, her most significant teachers have been her two children,
Marilyn McMurray holds a degree in elementary and special education from the University of Mary in Bismarck. With over 25 years of experience working with individuals with disabilities, she has gained valuable insights into the field. While Marilyn appreciates her formal education, her most significant teachers have been her two children, who have encouraged her to think outside the box and adopt non-traditional methods to thrive. She derives immense joy from supporting the students and Peace Academy staff, showing her dedication as an advocate for both early childhood educators and preschool teachers.