Choosing the right early learning environment for your child is a significant decision. At Somerset Academy Early Learning Center, we understand the importance of a nurturing and enriching atmosphere, and it all starts with our exceptional team. Our dedicated staff is comprised of experienced and passionate educators who are committed to fostering a love of learning in every child. Get to know the individuals who make Somerset Academy a special place for your little ones to grow and thrive.
Experienced Leadership at Somerset Academy
Our leadership team brings years of expertise in early childhood education, guiding Somerset Academy with a vision of excellence and care.
Kirsten Charnesky, School Director and Administrator, is the heart of Somerset Academy. With over nine years dedicated to our community, Kirsten holds a B.A. in Elementary Education from Michigan State University and a M.A. in Early Childhood Education from Oakland University, along with a ZA endorsement. Her journey at Somerset Academy includes serving as the Young 5s program director and a Pre-K teacher, providing her with a comprehensive understanding of our programs. Kirsten’s leadership ensures a cohesive and enriching experience for every child.
Carmy VanRobays, Administrative/Program Support, is a cornerstone of Somerset Academy, beginning her sixteenth year with us. Carmy earned a B.A. in Early Childhood Education from Rochester College and is pursuing a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education at Oakland University. Her 36 years of experience in fine arts education, combined with her early childhood expertise, make her an invaluable asset in supporting both our administrative and program functions. Carmy’s previous involvement on the Oakland Community College advisory board in ECE further demonstrates her commitment to the field.
Katie Baker, Director of the Preschool Program, is in her seventh year as director and tenth year overall at Somerset Academy. Katie’s journey began as a summer camp teacher, substitute, and Para-professional before transitioning to a full-time preschool teacher. She holds a B.A. in Elementary and Early Childhood Education from Madonna University, with a ZA endorsed teaching certificate, and is currently pursuing a Masters degree in Early Childhood Education at Oakland University. Katie’s extensive experience within our preschool program ensures a nurturing and developmentally appropriate environment for our youngest learners.
Passionate Preschool Educators
Our preschool program is brought to life by teachers who are deeply passionate about early childhood development and creating engaging learning experiences.
Amanda Tovar returns for her fourth year in our preschool program, bringing over 16 years of experience in early childhood education. Amanda holds a bachelor’s degree in general studies with an emphasis in psychology and social work from the University of Michigan and Baker College, as well as associate degrees in mental health/social work and Early Childhood Development. Her diverse background and experience, including teaching at a NAEYC accredited center, enrich our preschool environment.
Marija Vuk, in her third year as a preschool teacher, graduated from Eastern Michigan University with a B.S. in Elementary Education and Early Childhood Education. She also holds a ZS endorsement with focuses on Early Intervention, Early Childhood Special Education, and Developmentally Appropriate Practice. Marija’s background as a dance instructor for young children for over five years adds a unique dimension to her teaching, fostering creativity and movement in the classroom.
Dedicated Prekindergarten Team
Preparing children for kindergarten and beyond is the focus of our dedicated prekindergarten team, led by experienced and caring educators.
Honilynn Hendricks, Director of Prekindergarten, is beginning her eighth year as director and fourteenth year as a teacher in our Pre-K program. Honilynn graduated from Bowling Green with a B.S. degree in Recreation Programming with a specialization in Child and Family Development and holds a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Oakland University. Her prior experience includes seven years teaching preschool and toddler aged children, making her a seasoned leader in early childhood education.
Alayna Bialick, now in her fourth year in the prekindergarten program and second year as the Young 5’s director, brings a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm. Alayna graduated with a B.A in Psychology from the University of Michigan, obtained a teaching certificate from Eastern Michigan University, and is pursuing a Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education at Oakland University. Her 15 years of experience working with children in various settings, including kindergarten and pre-k programs, make her a valuable asset to our team.
Andrea Kitchner joins the Prekindergarten program with over 30 years of experience working with children from infants through kindergarten. Andrea graduated from Central Michigan University College with a bachelor degree in Early Childhood Development and a minor in Psychology. Her extensive background includes 26 years at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital Oakland Children’s Learning Center, where she served as a lead teacher for infants, toddlers, preschool, and pre-k. Andrea’s long-standing commitment to early childhood education greatly enhances our Pre-K program.
Supporting Staff
Our Somerset Academy family extends to our invaluable supporting staff, each contributing to the smooth operation and warm atmosphere of our learning center.
Lisa DerKevorkian, Guest Teacher, returns for her third year, bringing over 18 years of experience working with children in elementary schools, summer schools, and summer camps. Lisa graduated from Michigan State University with a B.A. in Elementary Education and has completed masters level courses in elementary education and reading and language arts at both Michigan State University and Oakland University. As a Somerset Academy parent with two alumni and one current student, Lisa is deeply connected to our community.
Debbie Osborn, Administrative Assistant, brings over 28 years of experience in customer service and administration to Somerset Academy. Her background in bookkeeping, banking, and legal fields, combined with her international work experience in Oxfordshire, England, ensures the efficient and welcoming administration of our center. Debbie is also a Somerset Academy parent with two alumni, further strengthening her connection to our community.
Sandy McClurg, Founder of Somerset Academy, is the visionary behind our learning center. With 35 years as an early childhood teacher, director, and university teacher, Sandy’s expertise is unparalleled. She founded The Clarkston Preschool for her Master’s thesis in early ECE and holds a MAT in Early Childhood Education and a ZA endorsement. Sandy’s dedication to early childhood education and her invitation to the first early childhood roundtable at Oxford University highlight her lifelong commitment to the field and the foundation she has built at Somerset Academy.
At Somerset Academy Early Learning Center, our team is more than just staff; we are a family of educators dedicated to providing a nurturing, stimulating, and enriching environment for your children. We invite you to experience the Somerset Academy difference and see how our passionate team can make a positive impact on your child’s early learning journey.
