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/Admin
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!
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.
Chelsey Hunley
Young Toddler Teacher
Bio coming soon
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.
Lydia Bridges
Two's Teacher
My name is Lydia Bridges, and I am thrilled to be joining TLA. I was born and raised in Knoxville and have over nine years of experience working in childcare. I am deeply passionate about supporting children’s growth and development, and I am especially excited to watch your children learn and thrive. In my free time, I enjoy journaling, cooking, and building with LEGO, which I believe reflects my creativity and love for hands-on learning. I look forward to seeing where my journey with TLA will take me.
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!
Sydney Watts
Early Preschool Teacher
Bio coming soon
Emily Curlee
Early Preschool Teacher
Bio coming soon
Summer Melson
Preschool 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.
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.
Abbey Underwood
Pre-K 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!
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!
Hannah Harris
Chef
Bio coming soon
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