meet our teachers
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In every room, in every interaction, there is an abundance of love. It’s in the way caregivers know each child’s favorite toy, in the shared laughter during story time, and in the warm hugs that greet every arrival and farewell. This learning academy is a home away from home, a place where every child’s uniqueness is celebrated, and their potential is nurtured. It’s a place where the seeds of lifelong learning and loving relationships are planted, growing in the rich soil of compassion and care.
Stephanie Schiding
Founding Director
Hi, my name is Stephanie Schiding and I'm so happy to be part of Tullabee Learning Academy. I created TLA in 2024, but have extensive experience in the childcare field. I've grown up in Knoxville, attended Knox Catholic and then on to Tennessee Tech University where I earned a Bachelor's in Multi-Disciplinary Studies and Human Learning (K-8), as well as a Master's Degree in Instructional Leadership. I have over 20 years of experience in the education sector as a teacher, administrator, and even educational sales. I've taught preschool, kindergarten, 4th grade, adults, spent time as a curriculum coordinator, and was the director of Primrose School for 7+ years.
Education is my passion, but outside of that, I come from a huge Italian family that means the world to me. I love being outdoors, lake days, hiking and sports. I played volleyball through college and athletics have always impacted my teamwork mentality. I'm thrilled to be a part of this team and I love watching TLA continue to grow into something awesome!!
Halle Beddow Assistant Director
Hello! My name is Halle Beddow. I am from Maryville, Tennessee. I attended the Kings Academy in Seymour, received my A.S. from Roane State Community College in Oak Ridge, and went to massage therapy school in Knoxville the following year and received my massage license. I have worked with children for seven years in various fields (after-school care, preschool, and nannying), and I am so very passionate about early childhood education. I know the foundational importance of those first few years of a child’s life, and how crucial it is to pour into them a love of learning and community to set them up for success in their future. I am so very excited to be a part of this journey at TLA!
In my free time, I love being outdoors, antiquing for my next vintage find, finding my new favorite book or coffee shop, listening to or playing music, and, most importantly, spending time with my family and friends.
Lindsay Bond
Support / Early Interventionist
Hello! My name is Lindsay Bond, and I am excited to be part of the Tullabee Learning Academy team. I hold a Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Studies from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, and I have a deep passion for fostering children's development. I have been teaching preschool for about eight years, and prior to that, I worked as an Early Intervention Specialist in Charleston, SC, for three years, supporting children from birth to age five with developmental delays and disabilities. In my classroom, every child becomes an extended part of my family, and I’m dedicated to creating a nurturing and inclusive environment for learning and growth.
A bit about me personally—I’m incredibly grateful to be married to my best friend, and we have two children, ages 10 and 13, along with two wonderful bonus daughters who are in college. I love starting my day with a run before my kids wake up, and I enjoy boating, hiking in the mountains, traveling to warm destinations, and staying involved in our church. I look forward to embarking on this new journey at Tullabee Learning Academy!
Sky Gionfriddo
Support / Curriculum Coach
Hello! My name is Sky Gionfriddo. I grew up in a very small town in Tennessee called Mountain City. I have over 7 years of experience in the early education field and a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education from East Tennessee State University. I have always been very passionate about being a part of children’s first few years of learning when there are so many exciting milestones to witness. I feel so blessed to be a part of the Tullabee team!
Outside of work, I enjoy quality time with my amazing husband, my two young children, and my big fluffy dog. I also love reading, sewing projects, being outside when it is warm, movie nights, and playing board games.
Christina Franklin
Infant Teacher
Hi! My name is Christina Franklin. I'm so excited to be a part of TLA. I was born and raised in Alabama. I've also lived in West Virginia, North Carolina, and Florida. Then we made Tennessee our home in 2001. In 3 of the states, I babysat infants or toddlers. I started working with infants and toddlers in the church ministry when I was 17 years old. I have 2 sons. After having my youngest son, I focused all my time on homeschooling him. For the past 2 1/2 years I have worked in a childcare setting as an infant teacher. I'm so excited to get to know your infants and watch their personalities blossom.
In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my youngest son, watching movies, documentaries, and goofy shows. I also love to quilt, crochet, knit and do hand embroidery.
Charity Lewelling
Infant Teacher
Hello! My name is Charity, and I am so grateful and excited to be a part of Tullabee Learning Academy. I was born and raised in Knoxville, Tennessee and have been working in childcare since I’ve graduated high school. I have 7 years of experience working in childcare and have also attended Bryant and Stratton online college where I received my associates degree in early childhood education. I have always been passionate about working with children to provide a positive, encouraging atmosphere that’s promotes learning and growth.
Outside of work I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I have a son who is all about being a boy so we enjoy sports, riding four wheelers, dirt bikes, and kayaking. We have also recently joined a church where I have became the lead teacher for children’s church and I have enjoyed every minute of it. During my down time I enjoy crafting and having movie nights. I am so excited and cant wait to meet you and your family and be a part of the Tullabee family.
Ashley Dixon
Young Toddler Teacher
Hello! My name is Ashley Dixon and I am beyond excited to be a part of the Tullabee Learning Academy family! I was born and raised in a small town called Discovery Bay in California. I moved to Knoxville almost three years ago. I graduated with a degree in human development with a concentration in early childhood development. I knew from a very young age that being a childcare provider is where I would shine. I was always the one helping my mom with the babies she used to nanny, and was always the first one to lend a helping hand when it came to caring for the children. I have such a passion for the development of children and seeing their milestones. I know the preschool world is where I needed to be.
Outside of work I enjoy being outdoors, whether it's going on the boat with my parents, or trying new restaurants or places with my friends. I am a HUGE highland cow lover as well as anything western. I can't wait for this journey with your kiddos!
Amanda White
Young Toddler Teacher
Hello! My name is Amanda white, and I am so ecstatic to be a part of Tullabee Learning Academy! I was born and raised in Knoxville TN! Graduating from Fulton high school, I became a childcare provider immediately after. I’ve now been a childcare provider for 7 years working with all ages 6 weeks through PreK! I have a passion for being able to connect with each kid on an emotional and developmental level while also striving to connect with families.
In my free time, I am a mother of 3 and the youngest of FOUR siblings! We enjoy anything outdoors and love to travel any chance we get! I love going on walks with my golden doodle, Cali, and my golden retriever, Koda! They are my world! I love listening to podcasts and enjoy reading anything Colleen Hoover.
Keisy Calderon
Toddler Teacher
Hello! My name is Keisy Calderon, and I am excited to join the Tullabee Learning Academy team. I was born in Honduras and moved to New Mexico at age seven before settling in Knoxville, Tennessee, where I completed my education. I hold an Associate of Science from South College and a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education from Union Institute & University. I am currently pursuing my Master’s in Education (K-5).
With several years of experience in childcare, from infant care to preschool, and having worked as a TA at Head Start, I am passionate about helping children grow and thrive. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family and Dutch Shepherd, Naveen, and serving as Supervisor of the Children's Ministry at my church. I also love traveling, reading, and watching documentaries. My favorite seasons are fall and winter.
Abbey Underwood
Toddler Teacher
Hello! My name is Abbey Underwood, and I am so excited to be a part of the TLA family! I have grown up here in East Tennessee my whole life and am proud to call it my home. I graduated from Pellissippi State Community College with an Associates of Applied Science degree in Early Childhood Education and have always enjoyed working with children. I am passionate about fostering a safe space for children to develop through play and hands on learning.
In my free time I love to bake, draw, and spend time with my friends and family! I have a playful Beagle named Dolly as well as a chunky cat named Willa and I will always use every opportunity to bring them up in conversation. I am also a huge fan of Taylor Swift as well as all things Disney!
Jennifer Schwenk
Two's Teacher
Hello, my name is Jennifer Schwenk! I’m very excited to join the Tullabee crew! I was born and raised in North Carolina and recently moved to Knoxville earlier this year! I was the assistant director of an afterschool program through the YMCA, a lead teacher at The Goddard School, and a support teacher at Primrose of West Knoxville. I have 6 and a half years of experience in childcare, ranging from ages 6 weeks to 12 years old!I pride myself on creating a safe and loving environment where everyone is accepted!
In my free time I love spending time with family, my partner and our dog. I love going camping and being outdoors. I’m a big foodie and I love finding new places to eat. I can’t wait to meet and care for your little ones!
Summer Melson
Two's Teacher
Hi, my name is Summer and I am excited to be joining the TLA team. I have been married for 18 years. We have two beautiful daughters and a Min Pin. When I'm not in the classroom, you can find me spending as much quality time with my family as I can, hiking, cleaning, gardening or trying new DIY projects.
I studied at University of Phoenix where I obtained my Pre-k to Grade 3 associate's degree. My passion for education started at a young age, and I spent time babysitting and volunteering at my step mother’s daycare, which developed my love for working with children. I have over 26 years of experience working in early childhood in various capacities, from infants to after school. In 2019, I was awarded "Teacher of the Month". As a teacher, I am passionate about creating a fun, safe, and inclusive learning environment. I believe that in early childhood that children learn best through hands-on, creative play.
Shauni Fisher
Early Preschool Teacher
Hi everyone, my name is Shauni Fisher. I was born a Tennessee Vol but raised in Southeastern Kentucky, as a Wildcat. After graduating in 2018 with an Associate of Arts degree, I began my journey in early childhood education, a passion that has been with me since I was young. Over the past four years, I’ve had the privilege of working with children of all ages in a variety of settings, including elementary schools, high schools, community centers, and daycares. Moving to Tennessee after meeting my husband brought new opportunities, and I feel incredibly fortunate to now be part of the Tullabee family. I can’t wait to meet your wonderful kiddos and be a part of their growth and learning.
Outside of work, nothing brings me more joy than spending time with my husband, our son, and our two playful dogs. I also love being outdoors, taking spontaneous weekend road trips, getting lost in a great book by the fireplace, and listening to my favorite vinyl records.
Ashley Mentzer
Preschool Teacher
Hello, my name is Ashley Mentzer, and I am thrilled to be joining the Tullabee Learning Academy team. Originally from Blacksburg, I have called Knoxville home for the past 30 years. I graduated from Farragut High School and earned my TECTA certification through Roane State Community College. With nearly 20 years of experience in early childhood education, both as a preschool teacher and a nanny, I am passionate about fostering a positive and nurturing environment for young learners.
In my free time, I enjoy spending quality moments with my husband and our two cats, relaxing by the lake or at the beach, and taking trips to Disney World with my sister. I’m also a dedicated fan of nachos and Diet Coke and strongly identify as an Enneagram Type 2. I am truly excited to contribute to the growth and success of Tullabee and look forward to seeing the Academy flourish!
Alivia Mitchell
Preschool Teacher
Hello, I’m Alivia Mitchell, and I’m excited to join the Tullabee family! Tennessee has been my home since I was 8 years old, and my passion for childcare has only grown. I have 6 ½ years of experience working with children from 6 weeks to 12 years, including roles with the YMCA, where I earned TECTA School Age and Administrator certifications, as well as training as an Assistant Director and personal nanny.
My focus is on creating a safe, nurturing environment that supports children’s growth while promoting mental health, body positivity, and kindness. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my partner and dog, exploring nature, and engaging in creative activities like painting and journaling. Family and friends are the foundation of my life, and I deeply value those connections.
Becca Ray
Pre-K Teacher
Hello! My name is Becca Ray, and I am excited to join the Tullabee Learning Academy team. I grew up in Knoxville and attended Grace Christian Academy. I earned my Associate of Science degree from Pellissippi State Community College before continuing my education at Tennessee Tech, where I received a Bachelor's in Interdisciplinary Studies with a focus on education and leadership. I have over 10 years of experience working with children in a variety of settings, including summer camps, afterschool programs, babysitting, and daycare. My passion for working with children has been a lifelong one, and I am eager to embark on this new journey with all of you.
Outside of work, I love spending time outdoors. Whether it’s kayaking with my husband, hiking with my mom, paddle boarding with my middle sister, playing pickleball with my family, or taking spontaneous trips to the mountains with my youngest sister, I truly enjoy making memories with the people closest to me.
Madison Hollister
Pre-K Teacher
Hello! My name is Madison Hollister, and I am thrilled to join the Tullabee Learning Academy team. Originally from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, I moved to Knoxville to attend the University of Tennessee, where I recently earned my Bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies. As a proud Vol for Life, I’ve been dedicated to working with children, starting as a babysitter in middle school and now having over a year of experience as a preschool teacher.
I am passionate about nurturing young minds and look forward to getting to know all the unique personalities in my classroom. Outside of teaching, I enjoy spending time outdoors, whether hiking, paddle boarding, or playing pickleball. When I’m ready to relax, I love unwinding with paint-by-numbers and a sweet treat!
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