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Mrs. Sarah Kizer, MAC MAT
Owner of Kizer Academy

Hello Future KA Families!
I started Kizer Academy (KA) to provide support to local families during the COVID-19 pandemic. Prior to starting KA, I was a certified School Counselor in both a local public school and a private alternative school. I have also worked as a Foster Care Supervisor and Parent Educator. I hold a Master's in Counseling and a second Master's in Teaching. I also served in the Air National Guard prior to completing my Master's degrees. I began my doctorate in the Spring of 2026!

My husband and four boys live locally in Festus. When not at Kizer Academy, I am teaching online classes for Maryville University or cheering on one of my children in their sports — hockey, soccer, and rugby. Two of our kiddos are also musically talented, playing keyboard and drums. We love exploring local attractions, events, and concerts, and we are HUGE supporters of our St. Louis Blues!

I am frequently in and out of our locations — I am a hands-on, very involved owner. You will often see me helping staff sweep the floors, giving hugs, assisting with bathroom breaks, and so much more. I take pride in what I do and want to set a good example not only for my wonderful teachers, but for the children we care for as well. I believe every child deserves to LEARN in a safe environment, to LAUGH and have fun, and to GROW into a well-rounded, respectful member of society.

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Courtney Stuckmeyer, BA
Director-Arnold Location

Hello Families!
My name is Courtney Stuckmeyer, but the kiddos know me as Mrs. Courtney!

I have been part of the Kizer Academy family since January 2023 and currently serve as the Director of Kizer Academy–Arnold. While you will often find me in the office, I am never too far from the classrooms. Whether I am helping in a classroom, cooking meals, cleaning, or assisting staff, I love being involved in every aspect of our center. Any time spent with the children is truly special to me. I cherish the opportunity to watch them LEARN, LAUGH, and GROW, especially as they progress from infancy through our Pre-Kindergarten program.

Before teaching, I worked for five years in various healthcare fields as a CNA and Medical Assistant. Although these careers may seem different, they share one important thing in common: my love for caring for others. I have now been working in childcare for six years now and graduated from the University of Missouri–St. Louis (UMSL) in May 2024 with a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education, with emphases in Special Education and Early Childhood Education.

My husband and I have been married since May 2022. We have a Golden Retriever/Australian Shepherd mix named Luna and our sweet baby boy, Kohen.
When I am not at Kizer Academy, you can usually find me spending time on one of our family farms (yes, one of them is Stuckmeyer's in Fenton!), enjoying the outdoors, attending country concerts, cheering on the Cardinals and Blues, and making memories with family and friends.

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Kristin Rose, MBA
Director - Barnhart Location

Hello families!
My name is Kristin Rose and I am the Director at the Barnhart location at Kizer Academy.  

Growing up, I always knew that I wanted to teach children. I love to learn. I want to instill that love of learning on the children that I work with. 

I graduated from University of Missouri-St. Louis in December of 2018 with my Bachelors of Arts in Psychology.   I have completed my Masters of Business Administration because I just couldn't stay away from a good textbook and course.  I have spent several years working in a childcare center and also for a local school district. In that district I loved helping to provide services to children with special needs.  Through all my experiences I have learned that there is nothing quite like watching children LIVE, LAUGH, and GROW under my care. 

I have been married to my husband since July of 2015 and we have two beautiful daughters together.   They never fail to keep my life amazing, messy, and a little crazy.   I love being their mother and know how much it means to trust someone with your child's care, so thank you for considering Kizer Academy for your childcare! 

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Mrs. Josephine 'Joey' Dawson
Assistant Director

Hi Families!
My name is Josephine Dawson, but all of the kiddos know me as Ms. Joey! I am the Assistant Director primarily at Kizer Academy Barnhart.

I have worked in childcare for most of my adult life, giving me over 10 years of experience in early childhood education. Watching children learn, laugh and grow has always been my passion. I love seeing each child reach new milestones and gain confidence as they explore the world around them.

My favorite part of each day is all of the hugs, laughter, and excitement that comes with learning something new. I currently hold my CDA and am pursuing my degree in Early Childhood Education. I am excited to continue expanding my knowledge and growing as an educator. 

My husband and I have been happily married since November 2025. We have two Beagle-Lab mix dogs, Nala and Athena, who make sure we are never bored! In my free time, I love spending quality time with my family, traveling, and trying new experiences with my husband. Whether we're exploring a new place, discovering a new restaurant, or simply enjoying time together, we love making memories.
I am so grateful to be a part of the Kizer Academy family! 

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Ms. Vicky Eccardt aka Meemaw
Admin. Asst. 

Hello! You can call me Meemaw or Ms. Vicky.

        I am a retired medical assistant, but not really retired. When my daughter, Sarah Kizer, opened Kizer Academy I wanted to be a part of her mission. I am the resident grandma, chef, and boo boo kisser. I love getting to know the children and making yummy meals for them. Apparently, my green beans are the best!

       I am a mother of two sons (Dave and Rich) and grandmother of 8 grandsons (Jon, Josh, Joe, Brendan, Will, Noah, Keegan and Quinn). I have a dog, Bosco, and two cats Mamma Kitty and Curtis. I am a huge animal lover. My favorite things to do is to spend time outside on my property. I really enjoy watching my grandsons do what they love. You will frequently see me watching my grandsons play hockey, soccer, and play their musical instruments. My newest favorite obsession is finding things marketplace. I enjoy fly fishing and traveling. My dream travel destination is to the Ireland. 

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Mrs. Bhreanna Petty
Lead Pre-K Teacher-Arnold Location
Hi! I’m Mrs. Bhrea!
I have been a part of the Kizer Academy family since 2021. That same year, I had the privilege of marrying my high school sweetheart. By the end of 2026, I will have earned my CDA, and I plan to continue my education to become an elementary school teacher.

A few fun facts about me: I love dogs, coffee, coloring, baking, and singing!

My goal is to create a positive, loving classroom environment where children feel safe, supported, and encouraged to express themselves. I have wanted to be a teacher for as long as I can remember, and I am passionate about helping children reach their developmental and educational goals.

Whether we are mixing paint to learn how colors are made, practicing our scissor skills, or building the biggest tower possible just to knock it down with a super-cool truck, there is never a dull moment in our classroom! I strive to help children understand that learning is fun, mistakes are okay, and asking for help is always encouraged. I also love finding new and exciting ways to incorporate hands-on learning, creative play, and meaningful experiences into each day. I look forward to getting to know your family and helping your child learn, grow, and thrive this year!

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Mrs. Alicia Reando
Asst. Pre-K Teacher-Arnold Location

Hello! My name is Alicia, I am one of the Pre-K Teacher’s currently here at Kizer Academy! 

A little about myself, I got married to my best friend Ian in 2020. Together we have a daughter named Juniper and a son named Elijah, we also have two dogs named Ellie and Cali. I enjoy being artsy and creative such as singing and painting. I love painting with watercolors and singing is something I do that makes me feel happy and I get to enjoy doing so by singing on the worship team at my church Grace Life Chapel.     

    I have been working at Kizer Academy since October of 2021. I have worked with all ages from infants to school age, but my favorite has definitely been pre-k with the 4-5 year olds. I love being able to help little minds learn new things! Watching kids figure out how to do something they couldn’t do before is so rewarding not only for myself but them as well and our curriculum is geared to do just that. 

Working at Kizer Academy has been a true blessing in my life. I have had tons of professional and personal growth while learning and working alongside my coworkers and Director. 

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Mrs. MaKayla Prock
Lead Pre-K Teacher-Barnhart Location

Hi I’m MaKayla and I’m the Pre-K teacher at Kizer Academy Preschool. I’ve been a part of the Kizer family since the Barnhart location opened in 2024. I have 12 years of experience working in childcare with children ranging from infants to school-age, and I truly love being a part of each child’s learning journey.
Teaching has always been something I’m passionate about. I enjoy creating a classroom environment where children feel loved, supported, and excited to learn. There is nothing better than watching a child gain confidence, discover something new, and grow into their own unique personality. Every day is an opportunity to help children learn, laugh, and grow while building a strong foundation for their future.
I’m currently continuing my own educational journey by working toward my Associate of Applied Science in Teaching. I believe that learning never stops, and I enjoy finding new ways to bring fresh ideas and meaningful experiences into the classroom.

When I’m not at school, I’m spending time with my husband, Ryan, and our two boys, Joseph (8) and Cullen (3). Our family also includes our dog, Beau, and our hamster, Parker, who keep life fun and entertaining.

I feel incredibly lucky to do what I love each day. Helping children learn, explore, and grow is truly rewarding, and I look forward to making each school year a positive and memorable experience for every child and family I have the opportunity to work with.

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Ms. Audrey Jackson
Lead Pre-K Teacher-Barnhart Location

Hello Families,
My name is Ms. Audrey, and I am one of the Pre-K teachers at the Barnhart location. I have nearly two years of professional childcare experience and have spent the past six years caring for and working with children ages 1–12 through my church programs.
I currently hold an Associate's degree in Teaching and am continuing my education as I work toward earning my Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education. Teaching has always been my passion, and I love watching each child learn, laugh, and grow! Even as a child, I would turn my playroom into a classroom and spend hours teaching my imaginary students, dreaming of the day I would have a classroom of my own.
My goal is to create a warm, caring, and welcoming environment where children feel safe, supported, and excited to learn, and where families feel confident entrusting us with their child's care. One of the most rewarding parts of teaching is watching children grow academically, socially, and independently as they develop new skills and confidence.
I love incorporating movement, music, dancing, and creative art activities into our day to make learning engaging and fun. I am committed to helping every child reach their full potential and ensuring they are well-prepared for the next step in their educational journey.
I look forward to partnering with your family and being a part of your child's growth and success!

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