At Grow With Us Learning Academy, we believe that the strength of our program lies in the dedication and expertise of our team. Each member is passionately committed to providing a nurturing and enriching environment for children to learn and grow. Get to know the individuals who make our academy a special place for your family.
Mindy Becker
Founder/Chief Executive Officer, Loving Guidance Associate, National Conscious Discipline® Certified Instructor, Parent and Professional Coach
Mindy Becker, the driving force behind Grow With Us Learning Academy, has devoted her career to children and families since 1990. A Summa Cum Laude graduate from Barry University with a major in Exceptional Student Education (ESE), Mindy’s journey with Conscious Discipline® began in 2001. Her early experiences ranged from working with medically fragile children to teaching in Miami-Dade County Public Schools Pre-K ESE program. Driven by a desire to balance professional passion with family life after the birth of her child in 2005, Mindy founded Grow With Us Academy LLC. A certified Conscious Discipline® Instructor since 2007 and recognized as a Loving Guidance Associate in 2016, Mindy expertly coaches parents and professionals. She empowers them with Conscious Discipline® strategies through workshops and personalized guidance, both locally and beyond, reflecting her deep commitment to education and nurturing growth in every interaction at Grow With Us Learning Academy.
Jenny Jicha
Team Teacher, Teacher Supporter, Parent Coach
Jenny Jicha’s journey in early childhood education started at the young age of 18 as a paraprofessional in PRE-K ESE, where she was introduced to Conscious Discipline®. Her experience in a Pre-K demonstration classroom solidified her passion for creating impactful learning environments. After dedicating time to raising her son, Jenny rejoined the educational field, bringing her wealth of experience to Grow With Us Learning Academy in 2009. Working alongside Mindy, Jenny was instrumental in developing the academy’s enrichment programs and has become a cornerstone of the team. Beyond her classroom role, Jenny trains new teachers, contributes to curriculum development, and co-leads Parent Child Classes. Her dedication and enthusiasm are palpable, making her an invaluable asset to the Grow With Us family and the families we serve.
Janet Crespo
Team Teacher
Janet Crespo brings over twenty-three years of rich experience in preschool education to Grow With Us Learning Academy. Her nurturing spirit and dedication to children stem from her early experiences as a caretaker in her large family. Janet’s formal education includes an A.S. Degree in Education and an A.A. in Early Childhood Development, complemented by diverse experiences in religious and hospital-affiliated preschool settings. Recognized for her exceptional service and positive approach, Janet is well-versed in various educational philosophies, including Reggio Emilia, Montessori, and Social Constructivism. Having been introduced to Conscious Discipline® in 2010, Janet is thrilled to fully integrate this approach at Grow With Us Learning Academy, enhancing her ability to create a supportive and engaging classroom for every child.
Pamela Kiefert
Team Teacher
Pamela Kiefert, a dedicated educator with 11 years of teaching experience since earning her Florida Child Care Professional Credentials (FCCPC) in 2009, is a cherished member of Grow With Us Learning Academy. Pamela discovered Conscious Discipline® in 2010 and quickly embraced its positive impact on students’ social and emotional development. Her enthusiasm for this philosophy and her desire to contribute to a meaningful educational environment led her to Grow With Us. Pamela is passionate about equipping young children with essential social and emotional tools, making her an integral part of our commitment to holistic child development at Grow With Us Learning Academy.
Mirtha Ojeda Petit
Team Teacher
Mirtha Ojeda Petit enriches Grow With Us Learning Academy with her twenty-five years of experience in early childhood education. Holding a Masters of Science in Early Childhood Education from Florida International University, Mirtha combines her academic knowledge with practical classroom wisdom. Her long-standing commitment to the field and her nurturing approach make her a valued teacher at our academy. Beyond her professional life, Mirtha enjoys sewing, bringing a creative and caring spirit to everything she does at Grow With Us Learning Academy.
Arti Ishwaran
Administrative Director
Arti Ishwaran, the Administrative Director at Grow With Us Learning Academy, brings a diverse professional background to our team. With extensive experience in business and a passion for community involvement, Arti transitioned to the educational sector to support and enhance the learning environment at Grow With Us. Her volunteer work within schools and dedication as a “hockey and soccer Mom” highlight her commitment to children’s development. Arti is excited to contribute her organizational skills and enthusiasm to Grow With Us Learning Academy, ensuring smooth operations and a supportive atmosphere for both teachers and families, and is eager to embrace the principles of Conscious Discipline®.
Join Our Team!
If you are passionate about early childhood education and align with our philosophy at Grow With Us Learning Academy, we invite you to submit your resume to [email protected]. We are always looking for talented individuals to join our growing family!
