Kiersten Avalos - Director and Lead Teacher, 4-Year-Old Class
Kiersten is the Director of Spring-Up Academy and Lead Teacher for the 4-year-old class. With a background in preschool education, special needs instruction, and programs for hearing-impaired children, she brings both experience and heart to the classroom. Her passion, patience, and energy create a joyful learning environment where every child thrives. Kiersten lives in Carlisle with her husband Jimmy and their daughter Elizabeth.
Mackenna Jackson - Assistant Teacher, 4-Year-Old Class
Affectionately known by her students as Miss Kenna, Mackenna is the Assistant Teacher in the 4-year-old classroom. With over five years of experience in early childhood education, she brings warmth, energy, and a genuine love for helping young learners thrive. Mackenna is currently pursuing her degree in early childhood education, further deepening her commitment to supporting children during these formative years.Her passion for teaching shines through in every interaction, and she’s excited to continue growing alongside the children she serves. Mackenna is thrilled to be part of the Spring-Up Academy team, where she can inspire curiosity, kindness, and confidence in her classroom every day.
Michelle Miller - Co-Director & Lead Teacher, 3-Year-Old Class
Michelle serves as Co-Director of Spring-Up Academy and Lead Teacher for the 3-year-old class. With over six years of daycare experience and a rich background in various childcare settings, she discovered her true passion for teaching preschoolers in 2011—and hasn’t looked back since. She finds joy in watching her students grow and develop throughout the school year, celebrating every milestone along the way.Beyond the classroom, Michelle is a PaperPie consultant and creative crafter. She’s married to her favorite farmer, Travis, and together they have two sons, Jaxen and Cooper. Her happiest moments are spent with family, enjoying the outdoors, traveling, and building lasting relationships with friends and loved ones.
Connie Ensor - Assistant Teacher, 3-Year-Old Class
Connie brings over 30 years of experience in child development to the 3-year-old classroom, where her wisdom, creativity, and heart for children shine every day. Her background spans personal childcare, public school education, daycare, and preschool roles—including teaching, directing, assisting, and serving as an aide. Connie holds certifications and training from Millersville College, Wheaton College, and Penn State’s Middletown Campus.Her dedication to student success led her to develop a Reading and Math Lab for South Western School District’s elementary schools under the EASA Title I program. She also tutored reading in a summer program under the direction of Dr. Murphy. Beyond the classroom, Connie has poured her talents into children’s ministry—volunteering with Awana, teaching Sunday school, creating VBS backdrops, and sharing her love of music through choir and singing arrangements.Connie and her husband Mike have four grown children and thirteen grandchildren. They cherish family time, especially walks and visits with their kids and grandkids. Connie is thrilled to be part of the Spring-Up Academy team, where she continues to inspire young minds with joy and purpose.
Jen Smith - Lead Teacher, 2-Year-Old Class
Jen is the Lead Teacher in the 2-year-old classroom at Spring-Up Academy, where she brings a nurturing spirit and a deep love for working with young children. After years of volunteering at her own kids’ school, Jen discovered her passion for early childhood education. She embraces the unique challenges of this age group, helping little ones adjust to separation, learn to share, and build essential motor skills.Jen lives in Spring Grove with her husband Tim and their two children, Lane and Chloe. Her family enjoys beach trips, swimming in their backyard pool, and spending time with their beloved pets and a few friendly chickens. Jen is excited to be part of the Spring-Up team and looks forward to supporting each child’s growth with care and encouragement.
Carly Rohrbaugh - Assistant Teacher, 2-Year-Old Class
Carly is the Assistant Teacher for the 2-year-old class at Spring-Up Academy. She brings a vibrant energy and a love for creativity to the classroom, inspired by her passion for art and hands-on learning. Carly is actively involved at Wellspring Wesleyan Church, where she serves on the tech team and volunteers in youth ministries, working with children and teens of all ages. She’s also spent time as a camp counselor, deepening her experience in youth engagement.In her free time, Carly enjoys making art, spending time with her family and pets, and exploring the outdoors. She’s thrilled to be part of the Spring-Up team and looks forward to helping our youngest learners grow and thrive.