AWARD WINNING ACADEMIC CURRICULUM BALANCED BY THE JOY OF PLAY AND DISCOVERY.
THIS IS HOW WE SET UP
LIFE-LONG SUCCESS
FOR YOUR CHILD.
Amazing, committed teachers nurture your child in gorgeous, purpose-built facilities for an award-winning early education experience.
THIS IS HOW WE SET UP
LIFE-LONG SUCCESS FOR YOUR CHILD.
Now Offering The Same Quality Of Care At Our Queen Creek Location. Enrollment Now Open!
Extended Hours!
South Chandler & Queen Creek Locations
Are Open Until 6 p.m. For Your Convenience
AWARD-WINNING ACADEMICS
Top-rated in the area, our prized preschool program is proud to be the leading feeder into leading local elementary schools so your child is confident of a strong start.
LOWER STUDENT-TEACHER RATIOS means MORE INDIVIDUALIZED ATTENTION FOR YOUR CHILD
KIDS FEEL LOVED IN A WARM FAMILY ATMOSPHERE
HIGHEST TEACHER RETENTION RATES IN ARIZONA
The cornerstone of your child’s success is that happy and fulfilled teachers make the best educators. We provide generous pay, competitive benefits, a positive and fun work environment, and most importantly, supportive management. All of this has resulted in the highest teacher retention rates in the state, creating a stable and enriching environment for the children.
STRONG BODIES; STRONG MINDS
Daily physical fitness strengthens body control and development while yoga invites serenity and mental clarity to children’s developing brilliant minds. In beautiful spacious classrooms at Queen Creek and a full-sized gym complete with a rock-climbing wall at South Chandler, your child stays active mentally and physically.
PRACTICAL CONNECTIONS, BEYOND THE CLASSROOM
OUTDOOR CLASSROOMS AND STATE-OF-THE-ART PLAY
At South Chandler, 2 impressive playgrounds are shaded and padded with special turf and over half an acre of grassy space is perfect for picnics, outdoor circle time and running-sports! At Queen Creek, a 1500-square-foot outdoor classroom features beautiful murals, natural structures, and endless opportunities for outdoor discovery.
SUPERIOR READING AND WRITING SKILLS LEADS TO “AHEAD OF THE CURVE” KINDERGARTEN PREP
Voted Best Of The Year By East Valley Tribune
Feel confident in your choice when you join a preschool family consistently ranked top in the area by the community. Parents like you voted us Best Of from 2017 – 2022 in the East Valley Tribune; come and see why!
Meet the Management
Ms. Elana
Ms. Elana | Head of Operations
I was born into a family of teachers – my father is Physics professor, my mother a Math teacher, and my two sisters teach Language and Special Education. The passion for education filled our home, hence my dream to teach since I was little! By the age of 21, I founded a successful tutoring agency in Toronto Canada, which gave me exposure to teaching one-on-one early in my career. I pursued a Bachelor’s Degree with a double major in Social Science and Literature, and then returned after giving birth to my first daughter to pursue a second degree in Education.
I taught in both Elementary and Middle Schools in Ontario for 5 years and later advanced onto High School for another 3 years. Focusing on Special Education, Guidance and behavioral issues was my strong suit. I was happiest in the classroom, interacting with my students – forming wonderful bonds, changing lives and then sad to see them go year after year… I am proud to be both a parent at and owner of Premier Learning Academy – a second family that my sister and I have always dreamt of.
Ms. Leora
Ms. Leora | Principal
Teaching for the past two decades in both private and public school districts in Ontario, Canada has been a thrill. I learned that real education takes place when children are engaged and left to imagine the rest. My classroom is always filled with laughter, music and fun as I live for the moment when a face lights up and a pre-Kindergartener says: “I get it now!” Through my many years as an educator, I realized the significant need to build self-esteem and discard all notions of predetermined expectations. No child is left behind under our care, and therefore with patience and determination, we teach to focus on students’ strengths rather than weaknesses. A mother of 3 vivacious young boys, I learned to insist on putting our children first. Being a parent is definitely the greatest challenge and as you walk through our doors day after day, I identify with you in both wonderful and challenging times. Alongside my sister Elana, I can’t wait to change the world together one child at a time!
Ms. Stacy
Ms. Stacy | Director
Premier Learning Academy has played a huge part of my life since 2010 as I have seen our amazing preschool grow into one of the best in our State! I have been so proud to be a part of its wonderful journey as a mother and volunteer from 2010 to 2012, teacher from 2012 to 2014 and now director from 2014 to current day. I am a mother to a very spirited 10-year-old boy named George who I love hanging out with in my spare time. In addition to gaming, I am nuts about animals – my husband and I have fostered 3 rescue dogs! Though I have a degree in Art History, Early Education has been a passion of mine. Growing with our family of amazing educators at Premier Learning Academy has never been work but a second home surrounded by little ones we inspire to make the world a better place!
Ms. Amanda
Ms. Amanda | Director
I am a busy mom to two boys and two stepdaughters ranging in the ages of 5 to 11. Lucky to have found my soul mate, I have been married for 2 years. My family made a big leap and moved to Chandler in 2016 from The Netherlands. Though I am European, Arizona has become my true home!
I like to hike, travel, experiment cooking new healthy foods and love spending as much time as I can with my family.
I have over 7 years of experience of working with children in Europe. As a teacher, witnessing the growth throughout the formative years firsthand is amazing! I have been working at PLA for almost 2 years and absolutely love my second home!
Ms. Elana
Ms. Elana | Head of Operations
I was born into a family of teachers – my father is Physics professor, my mother a Math teacher, and my two sisters teach Language and Special Education. The passion for education filled our home, hence my dream to teach since I was little! By the age of 21, I founded a successful tutoring agency in Toronto Canada, which gave me exposure to teaching one-on-one early in my career. I pursued a Bachelor’s Degree with a double major in Social Science and Literature, and then returned after giving birth to my first daughter to pursue a second degree in Education.
I taught in both Elementary and Middle Schools in Ontario for 5 years and later advanced onto High School for another 3 years. Focusing on Special Education, Guidance and behavioral issues was my strong suit. I was happiest in the classroom, interacting with my students – forming wonderful bonds, changing lives and then sad to see them go year after year… I am proud to be both a parent at and owner of Premier Learning Academy – a second family that my sister and I have always dreamt of.
Ms. Leora
Ms. Leora | Principal
Teaching for the past two decades in both private and public school districts in Ontario, Canada has been a thrill. I learned that real education takes place when children are engaged and left to imagine the rest. My classroom is always filled with laughter, music and fun as I live for the moment when a face lights up and a pre-Kindergartener says: “I get it now!” Through my many years as an educator, I realized the significant need to build self-esteem and discard all notions of predetermined expectations. No child is left behind under our care, and therefore with patience and determination, we teach to focus on students’ strengths rather than weaknesses. A mother of 3 vivacious young boys, I learned to insist on putting our children first. Being a parent is definitely the greatest challenge and as you walk through our doors day after day, I identify with you in both wonderful and challenging times. Alongside my sister Elana, I can’t wait to change the world together one child at a time!
Ms. Stacy
Ms. Stacy | Director
Premier Learning Academy has played a huge part of my life since 2010 as I have seen our amazing preschool grow into one of the best in our State! I have been so proud to be a part of its wonderful journey as a mother and volunteer from 2010 to 2012, teacher from 2012 to 2014 and now director from 2014 to current day. I am a mother to a very spirited 10-year-old boy named George who I love hanging out with in my spare time. In addition to gaming, I am nuts about animals – my husband and I have fostered 3 rescue dogs! Though I have a degree in Art History, Early Education has been a passion of mine. Growing with our family of amazing educators at Premier Learning Academy has never been work but a second home surrounded by little ones we inspire to make the world a better place!
Meet Our Teachers
Ms. Tasha
Ms. Tasha | Toddlers
I was born and raised in Ogden Utah, but for the last five years I have proudly called Gilbert my home. In my spare time I am usually snuggling with my dog Luna and playing board games with my husband. We also love going on road trips and other fun adventures! I am currently pursuing a Bachelors Degree in Elementary Education with hopes of becoming a teacher in the near future! I have always loved working with children… Before I began working at Premier Learning Academy, I was a nanny for 3 boys and 1 girl for a fun four years. I was sad to leave – but in turn – feel so very welcome here! Everyone at Premier Learning Academy is so kind and I absolutely adore the kids and their families! I am excited to continue to work with all of you and watch them grow.
Ms. Brieanna
Ms. Brieanna | Toddlers
I’m Brieanna Doman and I’m 22 years old. I moved to Arizona, from Utah, about a month ago. I grew up around kids because my mom had a daycare at our house.
After I graduated high school, I worked at a preschool for special needs children for three years. I love working with kids and am excited to be part of the PLA family.
Ms. Danielle
Ms. Esther
Ms. Chantelle
Ms. Chantelle | Pre-Kindergarten
Throughout high school, my courses in primary education inspired me to pursue teaching. I proceeded to teach for the Chicago Dioceses following graduation. This is my fourth year teaching and Premier Learning Academy has been a most fantastic experience thus far! Though I was born and raised in Australia, my father’s work has brought us all over the world, giving us the opportunity to first live in London, then Chicago and now here in Arizona. I am passionate about sharing the knowledge and understandings I have attained through my many travels to my little ones in the classroom year after year.
Ms. Tiara
Ms. Tiara | Preschool
My name is Tiara but you can call me Ms. T! I have been working in childcare for the last 7 years and I am also a registered behavioral technician. I am Trinidadian and was raised in Washington. Arizona has been my home for the last 7 years!
In my free time, I am normally hanging out with my friends and family or my dog Blue. My favorite color is blue and I love to cook and find new recipes!
I am currently furthering my education in nursing at Mesa Community College and am so excited to join the PLA family!
Ms. Dominique
Ms. Janet
Ms. Janet | Preschool
I am a California native and I grew up in the South Bay Area. I moved to Mesa in March and I am enjoying it here! I look forward to exploring and taking in the beautiful scenery and everything Arizona has to offer! My favorite things to do include watching hockey (Go LA Kings!), being outdoors and going to see a movie. I have been teaching since 1997, from the toddlers through Pre-K. Throughout my teaching career, I have had the pleasure of helping children learn and grow in so many ways. One of the greatest rewards for me is watching their development through the years and I am so proud that I was a part of it!
Ms. Jules
Ms. Jules | After School
I have been at PLA for just under 2 years and it has been amazing! I’ve worked with so many different ages it’s unbelievable. Each age brings me so much joy, being able to put a smile on their faces and receiving so many hugs makes everything worth it. My hobbies include drawing,
painting and photography. I spend most of my free time helping my family with anything they need. Family always comes first. Working at PLA has helped me grow as person and a teacher/tutor. I am looking forward to continuing working with these wonderful kids
Ms. Mckenna
Ms. Kelsey
Ms. Camilla
Ms. Delihla
Ms. Delihla | Preschool
I was born and raised in Arizona and I am the second oldest out of five and I have three nieces and two nephews—we are quite a big family and we just keep growing!
I started working with children almost 3 years ago, and I have been in love with what I do ever since! I am currently working on my bachelors for Early Childhood Education at GCU in hopes to one day become a teacher.
I am so excited for my journey here at PLA and I can’t wait to watch my little ones learn and grow!
Ms. Mickinze
Ms. Mickinze | Front desk
I am from Alaska and moved out to Arizona in August 2014. I was able to travel to many different places in the US and out of the country. In 2019 I found the love of my life and we married in November 2020 and we couldn’t be happier! We have 4 puppies and a ton of Saltwater fish and corals! Outside of here you can find me doing something outdoors or traveling!
I have been teaching for about 8 years in Preschools but have many more years of experience with children. I have had the opportunity to teach in the Philippians and in Africa! I have been an infant teacher to a Pre-K teacher. I absolutely love children and watching them grow and learn and become stronger and smarter, every day!
When I walked I into PLA I felt welcomed and loved instantly! I am so proud and excited to be apart of such an AMAZING school! I think this will be my forever second home and family!
Ms. Katie
Ms. Katie | Toddlers
My name is Katie. I live in Chandler with my beautiful family and two cats.
I love spending my time outdoors, at the lake camping, and being around family and friends. My weekends always involve a good old-fashioned barbecue. I like making diy projects and crafts in my spare time and I’m a little obsessed with Nightmare Before Christmas and all things Jack Skellington, sloths and succulents and sunflowers.
I have over twenty years experience working with children of all ages. I am so excited to be working with the wonderful group of toddlers at Premier Learning Academy. Seeing their smiling faces and watching them grow and experience the world around them is so amazing. I am beyond excited to be at such an awesome Preschool and work with great teachers and loving families.
Ms. Tasha
Ms. Tasha | Toddlers
I was born and raised in Ogden Utah, but for the last five years I have proudly called Gilbert my home. In my spare time I am usually snuggling with my dog Luna and playing board games with my husband. We also love going on road trips and other fun adventures! I am currently pursuing a Bachelors Degree in Elementary Education with hopes of becoming a teacher in the near future! I have always loved working with children… Before I began working at Premier Learning Academy, I was a nanny for 3 boys and 1 girl for a fun four years. I was sad to leave – but in turn – feel so very welcome here! Everyone at Premier Learning Academy is so kind and I absolutely adore the kids and their families! I am excited to continue to work with all of you and watch them grow.
Ms. Tori
Ms. Tori | Substitute Teacher
Hello, my name is Ms. Tori and I am so excited to be a part of the PLA family! I recently moved to Arizona from freezing Wisconsin where I was raised, and I couldn’t be more happy to be here. A little about me, I absolutely love animals so I have one cat and three dogs that are my babies! Some hobbies of mine are dancing, cheerleading, and hiking. I LOVE being outside and exploring new places. I also love exploring new restaurants and food! 🙂 While living in Wisconsin, I was so lucky to find my passion of working with 1 and 2 year olds and I haven’t stopped working with children since! While working at my previous preschool, I taught in the infant classroom, as well as the 1 to 2 year-old classrooms and absolutely loved both ages. Working with these kiddos is truly where my heart is. I am very family oriented and hope to become close with your families as well!! It is very important for me to make each child feel at home and comfortable at all times. One of my favorite hobbies is experimenting with arts and crafts, and I can’t wait to include my kiddos in lots of new activities!
Ms. Danielle
Ms. Danielle | Preschool
I was born in Southern California but raised here in the Gilbert/Chandler area where I attended grade school. I studied education at Arizona State University and Northern Arizona University. From being an Aunt of 8 nieces and nephews to being a Girl Scout Leader and a Girl Scout Camp Counselor to volunteering with Special Olympics, working with children has always been my passion! My hobbies include hiking, swimming, going to the gym and trying new foods! I’m truly so excited to be apart of the family here at PLA!
Ms. Esther
Ms. Esther | Kindergarten
I moved to Chandler from Pennsylvania 20 years ago with my husband. I have 3 wonderful children who are my everything! I have been working in the preschool world for over 15 years and I have an associates degree in Technology, which is my passion! My favorite thing to do is hike the great state of Arizona and watch my kids play soccer!
Ms. Chantelle
Ms. Chantelle | Pre-Kindergarten
Throughout high school, my courses in primary education inspired me to pursue teaching. I proceeded to teach for the Chicago Dioceses following graduation. This is my fourth year teaching and Premier Learning Academy has been a most fantastic experience thus far! Though I was born and raised in Australia, my father’s work has brought us all over the world, giving us the opportunity to first live in London, then Chicago and now here in Arizona. I am passionate about sharing the knowledge and understandings I have attained through my many travels to my little ones in the classroom year after year.
Ms. Amanda
Ms. Amanda | Kindergarten
I am a busy mom to two boys and two stepdaughters ranging in the ages of 5 to 11. Lucky to have found my soul mate, I have been married for 2 years. My family made a big leap and moved to Chandler in 2016 from The Netherlands. Though I am European, Arizona has become my true home!
I like to hike, travel, experiment cooking new healthy foods and love spending as much time as I can with my family.
I have over 7 years of experience of working with children in Europe. As a teacher, witnessing the growth throughout the formative years firsthand is amazing! I have been working at PLA for almost 2 years and absolutely love my second home!
Ms. Dominique
Ms. Dominique | Kindergarten
I am an Arizona native! I was born and raised in chandler Arizona, just a few years ago I moved to Queen Creek with my family. I absolutely love it! Prior to teaching I got my cosmetology degree while still in high school and began doing hair for 4 years. While working in the salon something always felt missing.. That’s when I decided to make a career change and go back to school. I’ve now been teaching at PLA for a little over a year now. When I first started at Premier Learning Academy I was in the young 2s room and have worked with every age group since then. I found that my true passion is with our Pre-Kinders! I am so very excited that I get to do what I love each and everyday while watching your little ones grow! We are going to have an AMAZING year!
Ms. Janet
Ms. Janet | Preschool
I am a California native and I grew up in the South Bay Area. I moved to Mesa in March and I am enjoying it here! I look forward to exploring and taking in the beautiful scenery and everything Arizona has to offer! My favorite things to do include watching hockey (Go LA Kings!), being outdoors and going to see a movie. I have been teaching since 1997, from the toddlers through Pre-K. Throughout my teaching career, I have had the pleasure of helping children learn and grow in so many ways. One of the greatest rewards for me is watching their development through the years and I am so proud that I was a part of it!
Ms. Jules
Ms. Jules | After School
I have been at PLA for just under 2 years and it has been amazing! I’ve worked with so many different ages it’s unbelievable. Each age brings me so much joy, being able to put a smile on their faces and receiving so many hugs makes everything worth it. My hobbies include drawing,
painting and photography. I spend most of my free time helping my family with anything they need. Family always comes first. Working at PLA has helped me grow as person and a teacher/tutor. I am looking forward to continuing working with these wonderful kids
Ms. Mckenna
Ms. Mckenna | Substitute Teacher
I’m McKenna and I was born and raised in Kansas City, Missouri which means I am a huge Royals fan! My family and I moved to Arizona almost 4 years ago and have been exploring the southwest ever since. I am currently working towards getting a degree in Business Entrepreneurship as well as becoming a certified makeup artist. Some of my favorite hobbies include doing DIY’s, playing with my dog and traveling! I found my passion for working with children at the young age of 13 and have been working with and leading preschool classes ever since!
Ms. Kelsey
Ms. Kelsey | Substitute Teacher
I was born and raised in Iowa and I attended the University of Iowa (GO HAWKEYES) where I received my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a focus on child development. I moved to Gilbert a year ago to be closer to my best friend and to explore new opportunities. In my spare time I love hiking, swimming, participating in trivia nights, and going to movies. I have always felt it was my passion to work with kids so I am extremely excited to be a part of the PLA family!
Ms. Camilla
Ms. Camilla | Substitute Teacher
I just recently moved back to Arizona, where I was born and raised. I have a very, VERY large family who I adore and a German shepherd I love so much. Working with children has always been a passion of mine and gave me the idea for my ultimate goal of opening up my own foster home! Giving children a safe place to grow up would give me so much joy and fulfillment! I am very excited to join the PLA family and get to know your little ones!
