Jeannie has dedicated her career to creating high-quality early childhood environments where children, families, and educators thrive. With extensive experience owning and operating childcare centers—as well as managing nonprofit early education programs—Jeannie brings deep knowledge of program operations, organizational leadership, and community-centered care.

With a Bachelor’s degree in Human Services and Psychology and a Master of Business Administration, Jeannie brings together a deep understanding of child development and a strong foundation in leadership. She is passionate about building inclusive, nurturing programs that uplift children, empower teachers, and support families.

Zach fills our school with the delicious aromas of homemade meals prepared with care and heart. He holds a B.A. in English Literature, having attended the University of Colorado before completing his degree at UNC Asheville. When he’s not in the kitchen, Zach enjoys hiking, reading, and spending time with his family.

Zach also has a child enrolled in our program, and having grown up around this business, he has always had a natural connection to early childhood education. In addition to cooking for our school, he also works at Corner Kitchen—so you may spot him there, too!

Kaytlyn is a nurturing, gentle educator who brings warmth and calm to our youngest learners. With two children of her own and valuable hands-on experience, she understands exactly what infants need to feel safe and supported. She enjoys spending time with her family, especially at the bike tracks where her son rides. She also loves creating art with her kids. Kaytlyn is currently attending Western Carolina University and is pursuing her Birth–Kindergarten Teaching Degree.

With more than 20 years of experience in the early education field, Vanessa’s passion has always been school-age children. She teaches at Leicester Elementary by day and joins WCCS in the afternoons. She also coordinates our summer camp and school break programs. Vanessa holds an Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education and a Bachelor’s Degree in Parks and Recreation.

Sophie Lewis is our 2/3-year-old teacher at Wild Curiosity. She embraces the messiness of learning and believes that some of the best experiences happen when children are free to explore, create, and get a little messy. You can often find Sophie outside, setting up engaging, hands-on activities and enjoying nature alongside the children.

Sophie is an incredible advocate for children and is especially attentive to those who need a little extra love and support, always making sure every child feels seen and valued. She has a dog of her own and also plays a special role as a second mom to our therapy dog, Preston, helping care for him and making him part of the classroom community.

Felicia Brackett is a valued member of our 2/3-year-old teaching team at Wild Curiosity. She has a true love for working with children and thrives in outdoor learning environments. Alongside her co-teacher, Felicia spends much of the day outside with the children—rain or shine—creating meaningful, hands-on experiences in nature.

Felicia enjoys being outdoors not only at work but in her personal life as well. In her free time, she loves camping, riding 4-wheelers, and horseback riding. Her enthusiasm for nature and adventure carries into the classroom, where she helps foster curiosity, resilience, and a love for the outdoors in every child.

Jaxx Marrero is our Pre-K teacher at Wild Curiosity. Originally from Florida, Jaxx relocated to Asheville about a year ago and has quickly become a valued part of our school community. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education and brings experience from private school settings, along with a strong educational foundation, to the classroom.

Jaxx is passionate about working with Pre-K children, whether it’s helping them build the skills they need for kindergarten or simply exploring and playing in nature. Her approach blends learning and curiosity, creating a joyful and engaging environment for every child.

When she’s not teaching, Jaxx enjoys riding horses, camping, and fishing, and she loves sharing her appreciation for the outdoors with the children.

Allison Gibbs is a dedicated and nurturing two-year-old teacher who brings both professional passion and personal experience to the classroom. As a proud mom of three boys, she understands the importance of patience, consistency, and creating a loving learning environment where children feel safe and supported.

Allison is returning to school this semester to begin her Childcare Credential program, and she is excited to continue growing in her knowledge of early childhood development. She is known for her gentle approach, calm presence, and genuine love for working with young children. Allison is passionate about helping toddlers build confidence, curiosity, and strong social-emotional skills through play-based learning and meaningful connections.

Whitney Summey is a valued member of our toddler teaching team at Wild Curiosity, bringing six years of experience in early childhood education. Her background includes both working in learning centers and serving as a foster mom, giving her a unique and deeply compassionate perspective when caring for young children.

Whitney has a true passion for supporting children and takes pride in the role she and her family play in providing safe, loving homes—even if only temporarily—for children in need. Her nurturing nature shines through in the classroom, where she creates a warm and supportive environment for toddlers to grow and thrive.

When she’s not at work, Whitney enjoys spending quality time with her family. She especially loves camping, fishing, and going on walks together, making the most of time outdoors.

Benjamin Harkins is currently a student at Western Carolina University, where he is pursuing his bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education. With eight years of experience in the field, Benjamin brings both knowledge and a calm, nurturing presence to his work with infants at Wild Curiosity.

He is passionate about supporting the youngest learners through responsive care and meaningful interactions that help build strong developmental foundations. When he’s not at work or studying, Ben enjoys spending time hiking, swimming, playing video games, and spending with friends and family.

Karli Baldwin has been a dedicated professional in the early childhood education field for over 20 years. A proud member of the Leicester community, Karli brings both experience and a deep understanding of local families to her work. Karli has earned her Early Childhood Credential as well as an Associates in Science in Emergency Medical Science. She is a mother of three, with two of her children currently attending Wild Curiosity, giving her a unique perspective as both an educator and a parent.

Karli is passionate about creating a nurturing, engaging environment where young children can learn and grow. When she’s not in the classroom, she enjoys spending time with her children and friends, especially outdoors, making the most of every opportunity to connect, explore, and have fun.

Jovianna Simpsonis a dedicated early childhood educator with over seven years of experience. She has earned her Early Childhood Credential and wants to begin working toward her Early Childhood Associates degree.

A native of Candler, Jovianna is married and has two children who attend WCCS. She loves camping and enjoying outdoor adventures with her family. She is also an active member of the Buncombe Partnership for Children Teacher Fellowship program, bringing new ideas and insights to her classroom every day.

Her passion for nurturing young learners and creating engaging, hands-on experiences makes her a valued member of our teaching team.

Jamie Justice is our afternoon Site Administrator at Wild Curiosity, bringing more than 12 years of experience in early childhood education. Over the years, Jamie has served in a variety of roles—including administrator, teacher, and anything in between—demonstrating her flexibility, leadership, and commitment to supporting both staff and children.

In her current role, Jamie ensures smooth and successful afternoon operations. She closes the building each day and makes sure every classroom is prepared and ready for the next morning. She also plays an important role during holidays and summer months, working with our school-age children and helping create a fun, engaging environment.

Jamie holds two degrees—one in Early Childhood Education and one in Birth-to-Kindergarten—bringing strong knowledge and expertise to her work. When she’s not at Wild Curiosity, Jamie enjoys shopping and spending quality time with her children.