Making The Playing Field Possible
Discover the Faces Behind Our Success: Meet Our Talented Team
ABBI KRUSE
Executive Director
All Locations
MICHELLE HENNER
Program Director
Midtown Location
JULIE KNADE
Site Director
East Side Location
TOM POPP
Board President
BETTY BERGQUIST
Vice President
RANDY RUPLINGER
Treasurer
Chief Financial Officer
MICHELLE HALL
Secretary
Family Representative
DAN CHERAMY
Development Owner,
Cheramy Story Arts & Marketing
MARY ANN DRESCHER
Member
PAULA MCKENZIE
Volunteer Representative
ERICKA KIND
Family Representative
JOHN OLIVER
Family Representative
RENEE PERRO
Family Representative
ASHLEY BURHOP
Teacher Representative
Caring for Children Begins with Caring for Teachers
Before the age of five, a child may spend 10,000 hours in an early education program. At the same time, the childās brain is rapidly developingā creating the mental models for how they see themself, relate to others, manage stress, learn, and motivate themself.
With an understanding of this critical period and the importance of early childhood teachers, The Playing Field invests nearly 80% of our revenue into staff salaries and benefits. We pay our teachers a living wage and offer excellent benefits as well.
We also invest in the professional development of teachers. New staff participate in a reflective cohort and work with our Mentor Teachers. Staff have opportunities for continued learning, coaching, and career growth.
We celebrate the dedication, skill and passion of our amazing early educators!